This is really scarey. I am told that the more beaten up your luggage looks, the less likely it will be broken into. Also that it pays to keep a simple lock on your luggage b/c it's more trouble to break into. This is a good reason not to fly Continental, although I imagine this happens on other airlines as well.
Well they stuck my Gitzo 1325 and 1297, and Wimberley I, and a BH-3 in their pockets. My fault. I had one of those Gitzo tripod bags with the name on the outside. They go in the suitcases from now on.
Last edited by Charlie Woodrich; 04-05-2009 at 11:34 AM.
This is why I always lock my checked-in bags with TSA approved locks. Then (presumably) only TSA can look inside them. TSA never gives me any trouble about this and (fingers crossed) I haven't had anything ripped off yet!
On my last trip to Florida in February, I remembered reading an article on luggage theft and pilfering either here on BPN or CNN. Anyhow, I was anxious about my new Gitzo 5540LS Tripod with Wimberley 2 Head in my checked in duffel bag. I used plastic ties to "lock" the zippers, 4 of them, knowing the TSA could cut them. they are also responsible to replace them if they do so to spot check your bag. Well low and behold, my luggage was not checked, just lost and came in on the next flight to Tampa International. Then on my way home to Portland Maine, it was lost again, then found, and given to me on the next flight after mine. Needless to say I was worried both times as the new rig cost me just under 2 grand. I big chunk of change to me.
Now I know there are some baggage handlers and airport workers who are honest. But both agents, in Tampa and Portland, literally said "O this happens all the time, it will show up". Well they did, but it still made me nervous and I was not filled with confidence by the attitudes of either one. I am glad to have gotten my items safe.
Last edited by Grady Weed; 04-05-2009 at 04:54 PM.
Unfortunately even the TSA locks do not keep thieves out especially when leaving the country. I have and friends lost dive gear and camera equipment over the years. I pack my pelican cases in old suitcases so not to scream take me!
When flying last summer on Air Tahiti I was forced to check my camera bag by the check in desk. They said it was too heavy to go in the passenger compartment. Nothing could persuade them and I feared the worst. So I took out most of the lenses and spread them out among my family. Luckily when i arrived at my destination everything was all still there though I did see the camera bag being tossed around like a sack of potatoes as it was being offloaded. On the return trip no questions were asked and I walked right onto the aircraft with it in hand. Go figure.
ABC Story on Airport Baggage Handlers Pilfering checked Bags
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