A travel expert has shared an important tip for navigating airport security, highlighting why one particular item should never be placed in TSA bins.
Traveling today can be quite challenging for a variety of reasons.
Airports are often crowded and noisy, and passing through security can be a daunting task. However, there is a crucial safety tip that travelers should be aware of, according to a seasoned professional.
TSA guidelines can sometimes seem inconsistent, with rules about whether to keep shoes on or take electronics out of carry-ons constantly evolving.
Nonetheless, when you’re traveling, and if your airport permits, there is one item that should never be placed in the TSA bin, and the rationale is quite straightforward.
Social media influencer and travel agent Tiffany shared this advice on her TikTok channel, Travel.by.the.Books, explaining how this tip could prevent a vacation mishap right from the start.
She said: “The thing I am absolutely never doing when I go through TSA, I am not putting my phone directly into one of the containers or bins.
“It is always going inside the zipped pocket in my bag.
“Why? I [put my phone in the bin] once. The TSA agent looked at me and said ‘You don’t like your phone?’
“I looked at him like he was a little bit crazy yes and he said this is the fastest way to get it stolen.”
This advice is logical, given that airports are prime locations for pickpockets and opportunistic thieves who can easily swipe valuables left out in bins.
Tiffany mentioned that phones are frequently stolen items at TSA checkpoints because they are often left exposed in the bins.
Many TikTok users echoed Tiffany’s caution, admitting they had not thought of this before.
One user commented: “I would include passport in this too. Or wallet. So many folks toss their personals right in a bin or on top of their bags.”
Another shared: “Left my phone out in the bin once and when I got it back after going through TSA it was actively dialing 911 I was like what did y’all press now I always tuck it away because of that incident.”
A third person said: “I’ve always done this. My purse has a secret cell phone pocket. My local airport only requires bigger electronics to be out in a bin (laptops, tablets).”
However, some travelers noted that certain airports mandate the removal of all electronics from bags. It might be worth trying your luck next time or at least keeping a close eye on your belongings.