[Leica] Extra photo bag on the plane

[jplaurel at nwlink.com (Jim Laurel)]

This is another really good point.  I always sync so that I pass 
through the metal detector at the same time my stuff goes into the 
scanner and there is no one ahead of me in the metal detector.  The 
goal being to be on the other side of the metal detector when my things 
emerge.  You cannot trust the security people.  I suspect they are the 
cause of much of the theft going on at airports today.  Often what 
happens is that the metal detector person is motioning me to pass 
through before my things have entered the scanner.  I politely motion 
to my things on the belt and let them know that I am waiting for them 
to enter the scanner.  I make it very clear, especially at security 
checks in developing countries, that I am watching my stuff carefully.  
When the crowd is thick, I do not take my eyes off the gear.  I hardly 
acknowledge the security personnel, except to respond to their 
instructions.  I want them to know I am watching.

However, recently, in Manila, I noticed that the new procedure is to 
separate you from your belongings, which area searched where you can't 
watch.

Another good point Greg brings up is to have your stuff organized and 
prepared for the screening.  Be proactive in showing them whatever they 
want to see.  Act confident and cooperative.  Make sure your appearance 
and dress are neat and tidy.  The guy traveling in a grey business suit 
and carrying a nice leather briefcase gets alot less hassle than the 
scruffy kids with Canadian (no offense to you or your fine country, 
Ted) flags sewn to their rucksacks.

--Jim


On Oct 7, 2004, at 4:25 PM, Greg Locke wrote:

> If faced with this DO NOT TAKE YOUR EYES OFF YOUR GEAR as you go 
> through the
> metal detector.
> A LOT of thefts actually happen right here in front of these 
> "professionals"