TSA Insider Warning: The Airport Security Mistake That Could Get Your Phone Stolen

A travel influencer has gone viral after revealing a little-known but crucial airport security tip that every holidaymaker should know before flying abroad.

The influencer, who goes by @travel.by.the.books on social media, shared a cautionary story she learned directly from a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officer in the United States.

Why You Should Never Leave Your Phone in Airport Security Trays
In her video, she explained:

“The one thing I’m absolutely never doing when I go through TSA is putting my phone directly into one of the security bins. It always goes inside a zipped pocket in my bag.”

She went on to recount how a TSA agent once stopped her and asked, “You don’t like your phone?” Surprised, she replied that she loved it. The agent then warned her:

“This is the fastest way to get it stolen.”

According to the TSA officer, mobile phones are the number one item stolen at airport security checkpoints. The reason? Passengers often leave them out in open trays. While lines back up and travelers are distracted collecting their belongings, opportunistic thieves can easily swipe a device before the owner notices.

The Safer Way to Send Your Belongings Through Airport Scanners
The influencer’s advice is simple but effective: always place your phone and valuables inside a zipped compartment in your carry-on bag before sending it through the scanner. This not only protects your items from theft but also keeps them together and easier to retrieve after the security check.

With airports handling thousands of passengers daily, security areas can quickly become chaotic. By keeping valuables secured, you reduce the risk of loss or theft while traveling.

Airport Lost Items: A Growing Problem
The TSA estimates that 90,000 to 100,000 items are lost in U.S. airports each year. While some are eventually reunited with their owners, many disappear for good. Phones, wallets, passports, and laptops are among the most common items reported missing.

This warning from @travel.by.the.books comes as new research reveals which UK airport is most likely to lose your luggage.

Southampton Airport Tops UK Lost Luggage Complaints
According to a study by travel company Bounce, which examined passenger complaints, cancellation rates, and customer satisfaction between 2022 and 2024, Southampton Airport ranked worst for baggage complaints in the UK.

Baggage complaint rate: 0.18 per 100,000 passengers (highest in the UK)

Overall complaint rate: 4.42% (highest overall)

Flight cancellations: 3.63% (second worst in the UK)

Overall passenger rating: 3/10

A Southampton Airport spokesperson responded:

“Responsibility for baggage handling lies with the individual airlines and their appointed ground handling partners.”

Travel Tip-
Whether flying from the U.S., the UK, or elsewhere, protecting your valuables at airport security should be a top priority. Always keep phones, wallets, and passports zipped securely in your bag, and remain alert until you’ve collected all belongings.

By following this simple precaution, you can avoid becoming one of the thousands of travelers who lose valuable items before their trip has even begun.