'Don't film' travel expert warns as TikTok airport trend could lead to fines and blacklist

TikTok is awash with fresh travel trends. Users often record videos in various parts of the airport, showcasing their journey from departure to arrival, but this can actually result in some disastrous consequences for your getaway.

Travel specialist Dawn Morwood warns that there are six innocent-looking trends and airport spaces you should avoid at all costs. Otherwise, you could face fines, be questioned by the authorities, or even be banned from certain zones. She highlighted: "If you're tempted to recreate a trending airport video for your followers, you might want to think twice."

Airport tray aesthetic

A popular trend at the security checkpoint is for travellers to rearrange their carry-on belongings in the trays before passing through the X-ray machines. These carefully curated shots usually feature a colour-coordinated display, with every item perfectly arranged to create a visually pleasing effect.

The travel expert noted this can be seen as suspicious in a high-security area, which could result in being detained for interrogation, at the very least it's going to cause frustration by holding up the queue.

Passport control

Filming here could raise serious national security concerns.

The co-director of cautioned: "Passport control areas are heavily monitored, and recording here can be interpreted as an attempt to capture sensitive information.

"Border officers may delete your footage, confiscate your phone, or detain you for questioning. These areas usually have signs prohibiting filming or photos, so you have no excuse for recording."

Lounge flex

Flaunting their access to VIP lounges has become a staple for many travel influencers. Sadly, this trend has escalated to such an extent that some lounges now outright ban any social media filming.

Privacy is also paramount in these lounges, and breaking this privacy policy by filming other guests could cause you to be removed or even blacklisted.

Baggage claim

When it comes to baggage claim, the stakes are more about personal safety. As Dawn points out: "While it might seem harmless to film yourself waiting for your suitcase, baggage claim areas are a prime spot for theft. Posting a video showcasing your expensive luggage or travel gear can make you an easy target."

Boarding gates

One of the most popular shots on travel TikTok involves the journey through the boarding gates, however, if this interferes with boarding procedures, it could lead to flight delays or even actions against you.

Dawn clarified: "Some airlines have specific policies against recording their employees or operations, and violating them could result in denied boarding or a formal complaint being lodged against you."

Duty-free haul

Filming your duty-free shopping spree might seem like a great idea for content, but it can raise suspicions, especially if you're rearranging items for aesthetic purposes without actually purchasing anything.

Security officers may intervene, and if you continue to film, you could even be banned from the store, the expert cautioned.