Traveling to Cuba for the first time can raise many questions, especially regarding luggage security.
On TikTok, a Cuban resident in the United States identified as Jorge Adriel Vigoa shared a practical and unconventional tip that has piqued the interest of thousands of people traveling to the island, especially from cities like Houston.
In the video, Jorge answers a question that he claims to receive "almost every day": "What do I do if I’m not allowed to map the briefcases?".
The concern of many travelers is clear and is fueled by the fear that upon arriving in Cuba, their luggage may be tampered with or even stolen during the customs process.
In a direct and approachable style, Jorge warns that using locks or straps on luggage does not guarantee its security.
“Look how easy it is to open a suitcase with just a simple pen”, he explains while demonstrating how to compromise a zipper without leaving any visible trace.
Given the ineffectiveness of traditional methods, Jorge proposes a solution that surprises with its simplicity, although its effectiveness remains to be assessed: using large garbage bags to pack clothes and personal items inside the suitcase, and then sealing them with strong adhesive tape. “To take something out, they have to break the bags,” he points out.
In addition to being a deterrent method, this technique helps keep belongings well-packed and organized, which can also prevent damage during transport.
Although he clarifies that "personally, I have never been robbed in Cuba," the goal of the advice is not to instill fear, but rather to provide a useful tool that helps travelers feel more at ease.
Jorge closes his video with a reflection for those embarking on their first trip to Cuba. It’s not about going with distrust, but rather with preparation.
The idea has generated multiple reactions among Cubans who have experienced this in very different ways.
"Well, I was a victim, they took two packages of La Llave coffee, two toothpaste tubes, and a package of spaghetti,” commented a user jokingly.
Another person assured that although she travels from Houston with the suitcases already "rapiados" (lined or sealed), she has never encountered any problems.
The debate continued to be heated in the comments. Some support Jorge's strategy, while others claim to have been robbed despite taking similar measures.
“Friend, forgive me, I did what you did and I’ll tell you that I was robbed”, remarked a disappointed traveler.
There are also those who claim that customs practices have evolved. “I went to Cuba in December and they no longer bother to take things out of your suitcase... now they ask for money, in dollars”, wrote a user.
Thefts at customs in Cuba, particularly at José Martí International Airport in Havana, have been a source of concern and recurring complaints from travelers. Numerous accounts report losses of personal belongings, arbitrary seizures, and a lack of effective mechanisms for filing claims.
In December 2023, two employees of the airport facility were arrested for stealing belongings from travelers' luggage. This incident highlighted the involvement of internal personnel in criminal acts within the airport terminal.
More recently, in March of this year, a Cuban family reported that an elderly woman's luggage arrived two days late and had been looted. The family expressed their frustration over the lack of responses and mechanisms to file complaints in such cases.
In this regard, the appeals from those affected have been frequent, urging the Cuban authorities to take effective measures to ensure the safety and confidence of travelers by implementing stricter controls and establishing clear channels for handling complaints.
Frequently Asked Questions about Luggage Security when Traveling to Cuba
What is Jorge Adriel Vigoa's advice for protecting luggage when traveling to Cuba?
Jorge Adriel Vigoa recommends using large garbage bags to pack clothing and personal items inside the suitcase, and then sealing them with strong adhesive tape as a deterrent to protect luggage from potential theft.
Is it effective to use locks to protect luggage when traveling to Cuba?
According to Jorge Adriel Vigoa, using locks does not guarantee the security of luggage as zippers can be easily opened with a pen, leaving no visible trace.
What are some of the reported issues with luggage at José Martí International Airport in Havana?
The reported issues include baggage being held, looted, or lost, without an efficient claims system, leaving passengers defenseless against these abuses.
What experiences have other travelers shared about luggage safety when traveling to Cuba?
Several travelers have shared that they have been victims of theft even while taking precautions. Some report that customs methods have evolved, now requesting money in dollars instead of removing items from the suitcase.
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