New Crime Threat at Airports

Ah, the joys of air travel — endless security lines, cramped seats, and now, a rising wave of luggage theft plaguing America's airports.

As air travel numbers return to post-pandemic norms, reports of stolen bags have nearly doubled at San Francisco International Airport, jumping from 67 cases to 119 in 2022 alone.

Data from Sea-Tac reveals a similar trend. Baggage theft in Seattle hit a peak in 2022 with 477 cases reported. Detective Darin Beam of the Port of Seattle Police warns that as more travelers take to the skies, the risk of losing your suitcase to thieves remains ever-present.

Increase in Theft Due to Increase in Passengers

It's true that the number of thefts has gone up dramatically at both airports, but that's largely due to the increased number of passengers. The rate for stolen luggage has actually remained stable from 2022 to 2023. In fact, the odds of having your bag stolen are only about 1 in 56,000. Though as noted by Port of Seattle Police Detective Darin Beam, "Unfortunately, when it's your bag stolen, it doesn't matter what the percentage is. It's your bag," according to King5.com.

Cracking Down on Trespassers

The Port of Seattle Police nearly doubled the number of trespassing notices issued in 2023 to cut down on the number of suspicious persons in the baggage claim area. According to officials, most luggage thieves are homeless, and some are mentally ill.

Keeping Your Luggage Safe

If you want to keep your luggage safe from theft, the best bet is to only fly with a carry-on. However, this is not always practical or possible, so experts recommend these four tips for keeping your luggage safe from potential thieves.

1. Go Directly to Baggage Claim

First, go straight to baggage claim. Don't stop for a snack or bathroom break when you get off the plane. Cut down on the amount of time thieves have alone with your luggage. Often, thieves are looking for unattended bags left alone on the carousel. If you are there when your bag comes out, it's a lot harder for a potential thief to snatch it.

2. Put a Tracker in Your Suitcase

Second, consider putting a tracker in your suitcase. In the event that your bag is stolen, a GPS device like an Apple^® AirTag or Travel Sentry^® ID tag could give the police a heads up on the location of your stolen luggage. Another option to consider is a locking suitcase, as this would make it more difficult for the thief to remove the tracker.

3. Make Your Bag Distinct

Third, make your bag look distinctive. Consider purchasing a brightly colored suitcase. Stickers, paint, or bows can also make your bag stand out from the crowd. The last thing a thief wants is to draw attention to themselves. They are much more likely to snag a plain grey or black suitcase without a unique look.

4. Don't Check Your Valuables

Finally, put valuables in your carry-on. Don't pack expensive or sentimental items in your checked luggage if possible. The most surefire way to keep your valuables safe is to always have them with you.

Luggage theft is on the rise at American airports. Even though the number of thefts per passenger may have stayed the same, you could still be at risk of having your bag stolen. The simple tips mentioned above can help keep your property safe as you venture out on your next flight.

References: Rising airport luggage theft and how to protect yourself | SFO luggage thefts almost doubled: How to protect yourself | Luggage theft at Sea-Tac Airport hit an all-time high in 2022. Here's what we found in 2023.