In-flight thefts are on the rise. Here’s how to keep your belongings safe while flying

Keeping in mind a few tips can go a long way in helping keep your valuables safe for a more relaxing flight.

Traveling can be fun, but can be just as nerve racking. Packing can be a chore and airport queues an annoyance. And adding to the things we should be worrying about is this bit of unwelcome news: In-flight thefts are on the rise.

Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported last month that police recorded 207 cases of crime on flights bound for the city in the first 10 months of the year, a 75 percent increase over the same period last year.

Two weeks later, on Dec. 5, The Yomiuri Shimbun (The Japan News) released a report stating that reports of theft during flights to and from Narita Airport have “significantly increased this year.” Per the article, as of the end of October, the airport’s police station has received 39 reports, a significant increase from the same stretch of time last year.

Theft during flights to and from Narita Airport have “significantly increased this year,” reports The Yomiuri Shimbun. Photo from Unsplash; banner photo from Pexels

Then just last Sunday, Dec. 15, Malaysia’s The Star, released a special report on how commercial flights have become a “hotspot for jet-setting thieves” who prey upon unsuspecting passengers. A commercial pilot told The Star that these mid-air heists have been happening “quite frequently and were often orchestrated by syndicates.”

A common thread among the reports are the kinds of items stolen during the incidents. They usually include cash in various currencies, luxury handbags, watches, jewelry, and credit cards.

With mid-air crimes on an uptick, it helps to keep in mind tips to help you avoid becoming a victim. The POST gathers here a few hacks to keep your valuables safe on a flight so you can just relax onboard.

1. Keep your things in view

Photo from Unsplash

Stow your carry-on in the overhead bin directly across from your seat, instead of placing them in the compartment directly above you. This allows you to easily keep an eye on your belongings and reduces the risk of theft during boarding and deplaning. Make sure carry-on bags are locked, even if you can easily spot them.

It would also help to make the compartments of your bag difficult to access. When placing your bag in the overhead compartment, ensure the zipped partitions and pockets are faced down.

2. Attach keychains or bells to bags

If you really need to stow your things in an overhead bin, consider attaching clunky keychains or even bells to your bags. This is so if someone attempts to steal your belongings, those little bells could alert you, especially when you are taking a nap.

3. Keep valuables with you

Photo from Getty Images

Keep valuables such as wallets, passports, essential documents, electronic devices, and expensive jewelry with you instead of stowing them in overhead compartments or in your checked luggage.

You can also store your valuables in a secure cross-body bag or money belt worn under your clothes. This hack can be particularly useful while sleeping or moving around the cabin, or when passing through crowded areas at the airport.

If you’re carrying with you a valuable yet rather bulky item, let’s say a laptop or a camera, store them in a lockable carry-on bag or backpack.

4. Divide cash and cards 

This I learned from my mom. Split up your cash and cards into different compartments (e.g., some in your money belt and others in your carry-on) to ensure you have access to funds if one stash is unfortunately lost or stolen.

5. Label your luggage carefully

Photo from TravelPro

This may seem obvious, but you can consider using more discreet luggage tags that provide just enough information without revealing too much personal data that could entice thieves. This is usually just your name and cellphone number—enough for the airline to contact you in the event your bags go missing.

6. Never ever leave valuables unattended

When you need to leave your seat to use the restroom, do not leave your valuables unattended. Take essential items with you such as passports, wallets, and electronic devices. A small discomfort can help you avoid the bigger headache of having your important things stolen. 

7. Stay vigilant!

Easier said than done, especially with all the stresses that come with being in transit—but keep your wits with you at all times! Stay vigilant when boarding and disembarking the plane, as these chaotic moments are opportunities for theft to go unnoticed.

Before landing, remember to double-check your belongings to ensure nothing is missing and that you won’t be leaving anything behind.

8. Invest in security accessories

You may also want to invest in anti-theft bags, especially if you’re a frequent traveler or if you often fly long haul. Choose backpacks or bags designed with security features such as lockable zippers, slash-proof fabric, and RFID-blocking pockets. These can deter thieves and protect your belongings. Pacsafe is my go-to for sturdy, stylish, and reasonably priced anti-theft bags.

Secure your carry-on with a luggage lock. This can prevent unauthorized access during the flight, especially when you are distracted or sleeping. You can also Consider using a tracking device like an Apple AirTag to monitor the location of your bag. This can help you quickly locate it if it goes missing.

Hope these help you embark on a safer, more relaxing trip. Safe travels!

The new lifestyle.