// Introduction //

Recently, numerous passengers have reported their luggage disappearing from airport conveyor belts!
With no compensation from airports, some have lost thousands of dollars!

Thieves are becoming increasingly brazen, especially in crowded airports. Here’s what you must do to protect yourself.

#01: Man’s Luggage Vanishes on Melbourne-to-Brisbane Flight

Imagine losing your luggage on a mere 2-hour domestic flight – a nightmare for anyone.

In late March, 25-year-old Brady Watson flew from Melbourne to Brisbane on Jetstar for work. In a rush, he accidentally took someone else’s suitcase. Upon realizing the mistake, he immediately returned it to the airport.

But staff informed him:

The other passenger did not take his bag.

His luggage was nowhere to be found – it had mysteriously vanished.

Watson spent months contacting Jetstar, but received conflicting responses:
"I spoke to four different people – none knew where my bag was. The inconsistency is frustrating."

Three months later, his luggage remains missing.

The Airlines’ Explanation:

Jetstar claimed the bag arrived in Brisbane and was placed on the conveyor belt.

Someone stole it at the airport (confirmed by Brisbane Airport).

Despite reviewing CCTV, the thief couldn’t be identified. Police are now investigating.

Financial Loss:

$3,000 worth of items lost (mostly new winter clothes for Melbourne’s cold weather).

No travel insurance – Watson had to spend $1,500 replacing essentials.
*"You don’t expect to need insurance for a 2-hour flight."*

Jetstar’s Response:

Apologized but refused compensation.

Suggested passengers use AirTags to track luggage.

#02: Multiple Cases of Luggage Theft on Conveyor Belts

This isn’t an isolated incident. At Adelaide Airport, several passengers reported checked luggage stolen from conveyors.

One woman said:
"My husband’s bag never appeared on the belt. Later, our credit card was used at a vape shop – confirming it was stolen."

Airport’s Advice:

Use luggage tags with contact details.

Invest in high-quality travel locks.

Install tracking devices (e.g., AirTag, SmartTag).

#03: Beware These Airport Scams!

Australia’s airports are hotspots for sophisticated cons. Watch out for:

1. Fake Airport "Helpers"

Uniformed staff rush you, claiming you’ll miss your flight.

They grab your bags, then demand payment at the gate.

2. The "Metal Man" Distraction

A person dressed like a rock star delays security checks.

While you’re distracted, their accomplice steals your valuables from the tray.

3. The "Bumper & Grab"

Someone bumps into you dramatically.

While you’re distracted, their partner swipes your phone/wallet.

4. Fake Greeters

A driver holds a sign with your name/hotel.

After the ride, they charge exorbitant fees.

5. ATM "Helpers"

A "friendly local" offers assistance – but steals your card/PIN.

6. Rogue Currency Exchanges

Hidden fees, shortchanged bills, or inflated rates.

Always use banks or reputable exchangers.

7. Wi-Fi Scams

Fake hotspots steal your data.

Never use public Wi-Fi for banking.

Final Warning

With thefts and scams evolving, stay vigilant:
✔ Track your luggage (AirTags save lives).
✔ Secure belongings (locks, tags, awareness).
✔ Avoid "helpful" strangers.

Protect yourself – because no one else will!