The One Item You Should Never Put In TSA Security Bins – Maine, New Hampshire, & Massachusetts, Take Note

The continuing government shutdown has started to cause some really big problems for travelers.

As the days go on, we are seeing fewer and fewer TSA security screeners show up for their jobs.

Let's face it, though, when you are not getting paid for the work you do (even though you'll get every penny coming to you once the government reopens) are you actually "working"?  Or, is it more of a "volunteer" position?

To make matters worse, this is second time this has happened in less than six months.  So, even if the TSA agents had some cash stashed away to get them by during the first shutdown, they likely had not replenished that safety net before the second shutdown began.

Even with the recent addition of immigration agents to help with crowd control, getting through airport security is still a very slow process these days.  All the more reason why you want to make sure you can be as efficient as possible when packing and going through the checkpoint.

In fact, Reader's Digest recently put out a piece of advice that could end up saving you a lot of time the next time you fly.  Actually, it could prevent a near disaster.

Never Put These Items in Those TSA Security Bins

According to a recently published article from Reader's Digest, there is one item that you never want to leave in one of those gray TSA bins (the ones that go through the scanner machines).

What is that item?

Your smartphone!

Unlike the early 2000s, the machines they are using are a lot more sensitive.  As a result, the phone does not need to be laying there by itself in a bin.  As it is a small item, in a bin that often goes through the checkpoint before you do, it could be easily stolen before you are able to pass through the scanners.

In some cases, due to the chaos of the security screening area, people have not realized their phones were missing until after they had gotten onto the flight.

What Should You Do With Your Phone at TSA Airport Checkpoints?

Instead of tossing your phone loose into one of those gray bins, you should keep it zipped up in one of the outside pockets of your carry on.  If they have concerns, the TSA agent will open the pocket and investigate further.

Clearly, if an agent asks you to do something contrary to this advice, please do it.

Have you flown recently?  What was your experience like?  Let us know by sending us a message using our app.