A Travel Security Expert Explains Why the Window Seat Isn’t Actually the Best — Plus, 5 Anti-theft Items to Pack

Whether you let the flight gods decide the fate of your seating selection or you pay the extra $30-plus to avoid the middle seat, there’s a good chance that at one point or another, you’ll find yourself tucked into the window seat for your journey. But even if you prefer a bird’s eye view of the clouds below rather than a straight shot down the aisle at the oncoming drinks cart, there is something else outside of comfort you may want to consider when picking your seat: safety. 

In-flight theft has been on the rise in recent years, and although it’s still not an everyday occurrence, smart travelers will have this potential risk on their radar when boarding their next long-haul adventure. In fact, Lloyd Figgins, international security expert and CEO of The TRIP Group, noted that “some airlines have reported significant increases on certain routes,” so it pays to remain vigilant. One surprising factor that may potentially put you at risk? Sitting in the window seat. 

According to Figgins, one of the best rules of thumb for avoiding in-flight theft is to never place valuable items in the overhead bin directly above your seat. “Although you may think they are safe, you can’t actually see if anyone is interfering with your luggage, or legitimately getting something from their own bag,” he told Travel + Leisure. “This is especially true if you’re in a window seat.” Of course, for some travelers, their seat assignment is out of their control, so Figgins instead suggests stowing your bag in the bin in the aisle across from your seat when you can for improved visibility.

What to do if you’re a victim of in-flight theft

In the unfortunate instance that you fall victim to in-flight theft (while sitting in the window seat or otherwise), Figgins advises to immediately report the crime to the cabin crew. “Provide as much detail as possible, he said, “including a detailed description of what has been taken, when you last saw it, and when you realized it was missing.” He also recommends keeping “high-value” items like laptops and tablets as close to your person as possible, instead of storing them above your head. 

Above all, it’s important to remember to stay on guard while traveling. As Figgins notes, “No flight is immune from the risk of in-flight theft, so maintaining vigilance and situational awareness is key to not becoming a victim.”

However, staying alert and aware is easier said than done (especially on long-haul flights when you’re hoping to catch a little shut-eye), so we’ve also rounded up a selection of handy safety essentials that will help to ward off would-be thieves while allowing you to achieve peace of mind during your travels.

Anti-theft Travel Essentials to Pack:

Sure Lock TSA-compatible Travel Luggage Locks

In some cases, in-flight theft is a crime of convenience, so adding a durable lock to your carry-on luggage may be enough to dissuade others from seeking access to your belongings. “Having something as simple as a lock on your cabin bag will deter most criminals, as it’s an additional layer they have to overcome,” Figgins explained, “so they are likely to move on to a softer target.”

Luckily, this two-pack of TSA-approved luggage locks is now on sale for 30 percent off and can effortlessly secure anything from a duffel bag to your favorite hardside suitcase. Hint: Using the built-in lock that comes with many high-end suitcases is another great way to ward off theft.

Lanney Money Belt for Travel

In the vein of keeping electronics in close proximity to you while flying, the same idea goes for cash and cards. “Cash should always be kept as close to your skin as possible, so a discreet money belt is a good place for your important documents, cash, and cards,” according to Figgins. 

This sleek and lightweight Lanney money belt sits smoothly beneath your clothes without appearing lumpy, offering ample space for the contents of your wallet with a much more secure design. The exterior fabric is even built with RFID-blocking technology to keep your personal card information safe from errant scanners — plus it’s waterproof and features a breathable mesh panel to limit irritation against your skin.

Pander Belt Bag

If you don’t like the idea of having a money belt directly against your bare skin during a lengthy flight, a spacious belt bag is another great way to keep your belongings protected while flying. As Figgins notes, you’ll want to “keep anything of value as close to you as possible during the flight — this includes electronic devices, jewelry, and cash.” 

This roomy Pander belt bag has space for all that and more, so you can keep a close eye on your valuables without storing them in the overhead bin. It’s even on sale for just $16 right now and will be an asset throughout your trip, from sightseeing excursions to running errands. 

Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box

A portable lock box is another great way to keep your valuable belongings safe and secure during your travels. Figgins shares that instances of in-flight theft may be avoided by having an additional layer of security (like a lock) on your bag, and this durable box may have the same effect — and it even has room for your passport, phone, wallet, and more. 

You’ll be able to set a unique four-digit code for essential peace of mind, plus the box itself is small enough that it will take up minimal space in your backpack or personal item. This lock box has even earned more than 11,600 five-star ratings from happy customers, with one shopper dubbing it the “perfect travel companion.”

Apple AirTag 4-pack

While Apple AirTags may not be able to stop in-flight theft from happening, they are a great way to keep track of your luggage if it’s stolen. Currently on sale for $70, this four-pack of trackers is many travelers’ favorite hack for keeping an eye on checked luggage, so even if you’re not the first person to baggage claim you can keep tabs on your suitcase until it’s safely in your grasp. 

The coin-sized devices connect to the “Find My” app on your iPhone for accurate location tracking, and you can even add one to your wallet, keys, and personal item bag for good measure.

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