I thought I would take a minute to share my experience traveling by air from the US to Oz.
Things began when I proceeded through the TSA “hands in the air” scanner where upon exiting I was immediately detained by the inspection agent. I inquired as to the reason and he replied that the computer indicated there was a problem and I needed further processing. At this point I was shown a computer screen that had a rather large, red X (on the screen) over the area where I normally store my apparatus (I am male).
I explained to the agent that this has never been an issue and I possessed a valid US passport along with my drivers license and all documents required to enter Oz. The agent, clearly unimpressed, rolled his eyes and told me that TSA needed to check things out further. After a short bit, a rather large and intimidating man showed up to resolve the situation. It was obviously the lead agent and he immediately asked me if I had anything unusual in objects in my pants. After my emphatic “NO”, he described the physical inspection process and how he needed to run his fingers along the waist band of my underwear, on both sides. He then scanned for any possible weapons or other contraband on the lower leg.
He further added that it may be a bit uncomfortable but it was TSA regulations and I could opt for a private room. I thought for a minute and decided to go for it in front the world, TSA and whoever else was watching.
I told the agent I was ready to go and he looked at me and asked, “OK, which side are your bags on?” I was startled for a second, thinking things were getting a bit personal and way too detailed. For the sake of time I figured I would play along and I began to explain the agent that as a male, one breaks either to the left or right and I happened to break to the left.
The agent politely waited for me to finish my explanation and when I had finished he responded.
In a soft voice the agent continued, “Thanks for sharing your intimate details and we really appreciate the help here in TSA, it takes help by the public to supplement the screening process. ” Then, in a escalating and irritated voice he continued, "what I really need to know is which side of the conveyor belt is your damn luggage on!!.
