Jorge Adriel Vigoa Unveils Unconventional Luggage Security Tip for Traveling to Cuba

Traveling to Cuba for the first time can raise numerous questions, especially regarding the security of your luggage. On TikTok, a Cuban living in the United States, identified as Jorge Adriel Vigoa, shared an unusual yet practical tip that has captured the attention of thousands of people traveling to the island, particularly from cities like Houston.

In the video, Jorge addresses a frequently asked question he claims to receive "almost every day": "What should I do if they won't let me wrap my bags?" Many travelers are understandably concerned about their luggage being tampered with or even pilfered during the customs process upon arriving in Cuba.

With a straightforward and relatable style, Jorge emphasizes that adding locks or ties to your luggage does not ensure its safety. "Look how easy it is to open a suitcase with just a pen," he demonstrates, showing how a zipper can be breached without leaving any visible trace.

Rethinking Luggage Security

Given the ineffectiveness of traditional methods, Jorge suggests a surprisingly simple yet potentially effective solution: use large garbage bags to pack clothes and personal items inside the suitcase, then seal them with strong adhesive tape. "To take something, they have to tear the bags," he points out.

This technique not only serves as a deterrent but also helps keep belongings tightly packed and organized, which can prevent damage during transit. Although he states, "I personally have never been robbed in Cuba," the advice aims to provide a useful tool for traveling with greater peace of mind rather than inciting fear.

Community Reactions and Ongoing Concerns

Jorge concludes his video with a thought for first-time travelers to Cuba. It's not about approaching the journey with distrust but rather with preparation. His idea has sparked various reactions among Cubans who have had differing experiences.

"Well, I was a victim; they took two packs of La Llave coffee, two tubes of toothpaste, and a pack of spaghetti," one user humorously commented. Another traveler mentioned that although she travels from Houston with her suitcases already "wrapped" (sealed or covered), she has never had any issues.

The debate continued in the comments. Some support Jorge's strategy, while others recount being robbed despite taking similar precautions. "Friend, excuse me, I did what you did, and I’ll tell you, I was robbed," a disappointed traveler noted.

Others claim customs practices have evolved. "I went to Cuba in December, and they no longer bother taking things from your suitcase... now they ask for money, and in dollars," a user wrote.

Addressing Security at Cuban Airports

Theft at Cuban customs, particularly at José Martí International Airport in Havana, has been a recurrent concern and subject of complaints from travelers. Numerous accounts report the loss of personal items, arbitrary confiscations, and a lack of effective mechanisms for lodging complaints.

In December 2023, two employees at the airport were arrested for stealing belongings from travelers' luggage. This incident highlighted the involvement of internal personnel in criminal activities 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 ransacked. The family expressed frustration over the lack of responses and mechanisms to address such cases.

In response, affected individuals have consistently called for Cuban authorities to implement effective measures to ensure traveler security and trust by instituting stricter controls and establishing clear channels for handling complaints.