askST: How can I keep my belongings safe from thieves while flying?

SINGAPORE – Cases of in-cabin theft are increasing on some commercial flights.

Such thefts are often orchestrated by syndicates and are common on Vietnam, Bangkok and China routes, Malaysian news outlet

The Star reported on Dec 15

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Hong Kong’s security chief on Dec 4 also revealed that thefts on board planes bound for the territory almost doubled in 2024, with a total of 169 reports lodged in the first 10 months. This is in contrast to the 92 cases recorded across the whole of 2023.

Here are tips on how to keep your valuables safe on a flight.

1. Choose an overhead compartment across from your seat

Instead of placing your carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment directly above you, choose one across from your seat, said Ms Noriko Takasaki, security director of assistance for Asia at International SOS, a health and security risk services firm.

“This allows you to monitor your bags and notice any suspicious activity,” she said, adding that passengers should ensure their carry-on bags are locked.

2. Keep valuables on yourself 

Passengers should keep valuables such as wallets, passports, electronic devices and expensive jewellery on themselves instead of in overhead compartments or checked luggage, travel security experts said.

Keep such items secure in zipper or buttoned pockets, advised Mr Harding Bush, senior manager of security operations at Global Rescue, a firm providing medical, security, evacuation and travel risk management services.

“Things with you on the airplane are in your control,” said Mr Bush, a former Navy Seal, who added that he has also heard of things being stolen from checked luggage.

Another option is to store your valuables in a secure cross-body bag or money belt worn under your clothes, said Ms Takasaki, adding that these can be particularly useful while sleeping or moving around the cabin.

“Valuable items are safest when kept within arm’s reach,” she said.

While overhead compartments are convenient for storing larger items, Ms Takasaki said they can be vulnerable to theft during a flight as thieves often target these compartments, especially on long-haul flights when passengers are less alert or asleep.

“For larger items such as laptops or important documents like contracts, storing them in a lockable carry-on bag or backpack is highly recommended,” she added.

3. Don’t leave valuables unattended 

When leaving your seat, such as to use the restroom, do not leave your valuables unattended, said Ms Takasaki.

“If possible, take essential items such as passports, wallets and electronics with you,” she said.

4. Attach keychains or bells to bags

If you do need to store your belongings in an overhead cabin or are worried about your property being stolen, try adding a keychain or bell to your bag.

“If someone is attempting to steal your belongings, a noisy keychain could help to alert you while you are asleep,” Ms Takasaki said.

5. Check your belongings thoroughly before landing

Before landing, remember to double-check your belongings to ensure nothing is missing.

“I have de-boarded planes and noticed things left behind, including phones, charging cables, laptops and even a passport in an open overhead bin,” said Mr Bush.

“People lose things all the time when they travel. Each summer travel season, we help numerous travellers with lost passports while overseas.

“They initially think they were robbed, but nearly always they were distracted, tired and stressed travellers and had simply left valuables behind.”

Ms Takasaki urged passengers to pay special attention to items stored in less visible compartments of their carry-on bags or jackets.

6. Stay vigilant at all times

Passengers should also stay vigilant when boarding and disembarking the plane, as these crowded moments are opportunities for theft to go unnoticed.

“Remaining aware of your surroundings and keeping your belongings close can significantly reduce the risk of theft during your journey,” Ms Takasaki said.

7. If you suspect someone has stolen things, what should you do? 

If you suspect that there is a thief on your flight, avoid confronting them directly, said Ms Takasaki. This could actually backfire by escalating tensions or posing safety risks.

Instead, immediately alert the cabin crew, who are trained to handle such incidents discreetly.

“(The cabin crew) can assist in documenting the situation, coordinating with airport authorities, and facilitating investigations upon landing,” Ms Takasaki said.