Expert Warns Against Dangerous TikTok Travel Hacks

While TikTok can be a treasure trove of travel tips, experts are warning that some so-called “hacks” doing the rounds on social media could land holidaymakers in serious trouble, and even pose safety risks at airports.

“Hide your luggage at the airport” – the viral advice raising eyebrows

One video that’s sparked concern comes from TikToker Jay Berg, who shares an eye-opening and questionable method for dodging airline baggage fees.

In the clip, Jay suggests arriving at the airport early, removing valuables from your overweight bag, and “finding a safe place to hide your bag”. He then recommends going to check-in and telling staff, “I only have this bag”, before later retrieving the hidden luggage.

The video has been viewed thousands of times, but travel expert Adam Ewart from Send My Bag says this type of advice is not only unethical, but extremely unsafe.

“We all know the frustration of lifting your bag onto the luggage scales, only to find out it’s over the limit and you’ll have to pay extra. But this hack is not just dishonest, it’s dangerous,” Adam warns.

“You should never leave your baggage unattended in an airport, full stop. Not only could it be stolen, but unattended bags can trigger major security concerns and even evacuations. The consequences far outweigh the cost of a few kilos over the limit.”

Instead, Adam recommends smart, honest alternatives that can save travellers money and stress:

“If you’re worried about overweight luggage, there are much safer and easier ways to cut down. Start by packing smarter – roll clothes instead of folding, limit shoes, and weigh your bag at home. And if you need more than your airline allows, consider shipping luggage ahead with a dedicated service like Send My Bag. It can be much more cost-effective, especially for students or expats relocating.”

Another questionable hack: Use a gift bag to sneak extra luggage on board

Another video, which has over 5 million views, this time from TikToker Jeremy Lynch, includes a hack that suggests putting excess luggage into an airport gift shop bag to sneak it past airline staff.

“For extra carry-ons at no charge, go to the airport gift shop and ask for a gift bag. Put your extra luggage into it. Because it looks like you purchased it at the airport, the flight will let you bring it on for free, even if it’s over your carry-on limit,” he says.

While Lynch includes a disclaimer urging viewers not to try these hacks in real life, experts are concerned that not all viewers will take note.

“Fortunately this particular video comes with a caption warning people not to try it,” says Adam, “but not everyone reads the fine print. The risk is that someone watches the video, takes it seriously, and ends up caught out at the gate, forced to pay unexpected fees or, worse, being flagged by airline staff and potentially banned from flying with that carrier in the future.”

With TikTok continuing to drive travel trends, experts are urging viewers to think critically before trying hacks that involve bending the rules. TikTok isn’t always travel gospel, and experts advise using common sense.

“There are plenty of helpful travel tips online, but the ones that involve deceiving airport staff or putting others at risk should be avoided entirely,” says Adam.

“It’s always worth looking for smarter, safer alternatives. We’ve helped thousands of travellers and movers avoid excess baggage charges entirely – all without needing to hide their luggage behind a pot plant at Heathrow.”