Security Bag check Suggestion!

[disgoer]

We just returned on 10/16 from a one week stay and the parks were packed. We took a clear backpack and each day and the security officer would just hold it up and look at it and hand it back to us. On one occaision, the guard held the bag up and told everyone in line to go buy a clear backpack and their would be no line. This made getting into the parks much easier.

 

[Ilovestitch]

That's a great idea, where did you get it from? -Stephanie

 

[bigsis1970]

I have a mesh bag - hope to have the same type of experience.. Michelle

 

[wdwcindy]

I used a mesh backpack two weeks ago and made it through security much quicker than those around me with traditional backpacks. Not only can the security officer see all the items through the mesh but if they need to get a closer look at something in the bag the mesh allows more light in so they can see everything clearer. For example I was asked to open my camera case which the officer could see through the mesh and he could also easily see the camera in the case.

If you can't find a mesh backpack in the stores now and you are a bit "crafty" you can sew up a backpack using a mesh laundy bag. My mom made my bag by copying the dimensions from a traditional backpack. The bottom, back panel (where the straps attach) and the top flap are a canvas material. The front and sides are the mesh.

wdwcindy

 

[inky dinky doo]

We took a mesh bag last time, too, and got the same reaction from security. They loved it!

Pat

5 days and counting . . . again!

 

[AimeeM]

I in our local grocery store a few weeks ago, and they had a clearance cart that had a bunch of clear back packs!!! They were only 4 bucks. I got one trimmed with red and black ( hmm.. wonder why..) I cant wait to use it at Thanksgiving!

I went to get it, and the tag says

Trailmaker Equipment
Clear Backpack

Maybe you can look that up online.

 

[robinb]

The clear backpacks always remind me of the kind of bags that sales clerks are forced to carry so they don't steal anything. Personally, I would rather have security poke though my bag than have the bag's contents visible to everyone.

 

[Traveliz]

I agree -no clear bag for me -- I can handle the extra minute it takes to look through my stuff...although even at that I have found them to be quite efficient...especially if you take a second to look a see which guard is just taking a look/see versus the ones who are going through each pocket.

Liz

 

[05ChristmasSurprise]

Another tip - if you aren't up for the voyeuristic experience of everyone seeing your stuff LOL

We brought a diaper bag backpack thing (www.petuniapicklebottom.com) that can be worn either as a messenger bag or a backpack - which was so nice!

Anyway - all I did every day was take it off, unzip it, and make sure it was ready for them to see - they just peeked inside and I walked right through as I held it open. I didn't even really stop walking at any point.

So, if you're standing in line already, get your stuff ready for inspection and it will be super fast.

 

[Local_Girl]

We picked up a clear back pack at AAFES (base exchange), FYI for any folks with military privileges. They were marked 75% off from $7.99, plus they were doing an in-store special with an additional 25% off...we got the pack for about $1.50! Anyway, we'll use it for DH to carry the Brita bottles and snacks...and if we decide we don't like it, we're only out $1.50!

 

[bajanswife]

and I found that bag checks were very quick and not very thorough. Literally 10 seconds max to peer in, and maybe shift 2 items, then they were done! I just unzipped all the compartments of my backpack while I was waiting my turn - made it super easy.

 

[chipnwendy]

Just out of curiosity, what would you be bringing into WDW that would make you uncomfortable using a clear or mesh backpack?

 

[AimeeM]

I always have to take stuff out of my bag anyway so they can see the bottom. So anyone in line near gets to see all of my stuff anyway!! All I pack is extra clothes, rain poncho, and diapers, and now I dont need to bring those for my DS ...woohoo!! So nothing in my bag that I care about anyone seeing. If it gets me thru security check faster, then Im happy.

 

[robinb]

Originally posted by chipnwendy
Just out of curiosity, what would you be bringing into WDW that would make you uncomfortable using a clear or mesh backpack?

It's not any one thing, but more of a privacy issue. I just don't want strangers being able to see into my backpack or bag.

But, to answer your question, I can think of one thing for sure. I suspect that most of the women wouldn't want everyone to know they have their menstrual period because of the feminine napkins and tampons. Oh look! She uses Playtex!

Aren't you glad you asked?

 

[mushumadness]

i wouldnt feel comfortable with a clear back pack as I wouldnt like people seeing where my wallet was and also I wouldnt like people seeing my medication

 

[loriandmatt]

.

Just out of curiosity, what would you be bringing into WDW that would make you uncomfortable using a clear or mesh backpack?

feminine hygiene products for one....no one likes to go on vacation when they are having their period, but hey - things happen. I don't want the entire park knowing it is my time of the month.

how about those travelers that are a bit incontinent? a spare pair of undies and/or some Depends pads are a necessity, but i am sure they would like to keep that discrete.

i am sure there are lots of others.

- lori

 

[EsmeraldaX]

I don't want people seeing my medication. I don't mind security officers checking it because I understand why they have to, and I don't think they really care. They are looking for specific items and probably don't bat an eye at the regular stuff.

However, I don't want people seeing my meds, or my wallet. Makes it easier for theft if you know exactly where in someone's bag it is.

But I think this is a great suggestion for people who don't mind, or who don't carry anything they want to keep discreet into the parks.

 

[AimeeM]

The bag I carry into the park is the one I put in the locker. I dont carry it around with me all day. I wouldnt carry a clear one around with money or a wallet or embarrassing private things in it either. The clear back pack I bought it for all my extra crap that I bring just incase!!

 

[bigsis1970]

I will be carrying a smaller backpack with things like my camera and $$ and room key so they will have me open that i am sure so nobody could see in that bag for the personal items but the poncho's sweatshirts and Halloween Custumes (oh and the light up things and autograph and penny books ) will just be in the mesh bag.. Michelle

 

[Bibbidy Bobbidy Boo]

I saw clear backpacks in Walmart, but I figured the plastic would be very hot and stick to your back more than my lightweight nylon one, so I passed on it.