I understand the need to keep the travelling public safe. For the most part, I agree with the steps taken to achieve this. Although a nuisance, passenger screening is important.
When I arrived home, there was a notice in my luggage stating that it had been opened and inspected by the Transportation Safety Administration. As I read this, I felt really uneasy. Somebody had opened my luggage and looked through my possessions while I was not present.
I don't know if there is a better way to do it. I have no problem opening up my luggage for inspection if it is legal and helps to keep everyone safe but, I would like to be present when this happens. If I am present, I am able to ensure all my possessions stay in my possession.
Americans often want to talk about how they are free but I find it peculiar that they accept their luggage being searched when they are not present. If something was confiscated you would not know until you arrived at your final destination.
I understand the need for these inspections but I think an x-ray machine is adequate to look at everything and nobody will be touching my stuff when I'm not there. It feels like a minor violation of my privacy. Nobody needs to know what shampoo or toothpaste I use. it doesn't matter and they really don't need to learn this info when I'm not present.
I don't mind the full body scanner. I don't mind the physical pat down but having someone look through my luggage when I'm not around feels different and unpleasant.
