Searched

Last week I was flying as a passenger in the United States of America. Air travel is so benign that in the dead of winter, people do not feel the need to wear pants while they are in a metal tube, flying so high that if it depressurized they would be unconscious in under a minute. 

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.