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Man Is Puzzled That A Woman Turned Down His Request To Watch His Belongings At The Airport While He Uses The Restroom
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Man Is Puzzled That A Woman Turned Down His Request To Watch His Belongings At The Airport While He Uses The Restroom

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Many will probably agree that air travel has become one of the most convenient ways of getting around. All you have to do is listen to a podcast, maybe watch an episode from your favorite TV show, eventually doze off, and, before you know it, you’re a couple of minutes away from landing in a different country.

But let’s not forget that every good thing comes with a side of cons – and, in this case, it’s the airport and its chaotic culture. For some, just the thought of going through that crazy busyness can induce astronomical stress levels – and chances are, the majority of you have had to endure things going totally wrong at least once or twice.

An airport is a place that works best if everyone follows a few simple practices, such as staying in your lane, multitasking and moving quickly, not hovering at the gate, and perhaps avoiding asking strangers to watch your bags while you pop to the restroom if you want to keep away from any unnecessary tension.

More info: Reddit

Tip of the day: Never ask an airport stranger to watch your stuff or you could end up getting blasted online

Image credits: Mark Hillary (not the actual photo)

AITA for asking a small favor from a stranger at the airport?” – this netizen turned to one of Reddit’s favorite communities wondering if he was wrong to ask a stranger to watch his bags at the airport while he ran to the restroom. The post has managed to receive over 2K upvotes and 801 comments discussing the situation.

Woman turns down this man’s request to keep an eye on his bags while he uses the bathroom, he takes it online to find out if he was a jerk for asking

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Image credits: dlo3

The man began his post by revealing that, at the time, there were no people at his gate apart from him and some lady with a kid. He really needed to use the restroom as he was a bit late getting out of the hotel, his belongings were disorganized from the security checkpoint, and he also had his hands full with coffee and a sandwich. The bathrooms were located right next to the gate, no more than 50 feet away, and although he’d never done it before, he decided to ask if the fellow passenger would be able to watch his stuff while he quickly ran to the toilet.

The man didn’t have a chance to visit the restroom prior to the security checkpoint, so he decided to ask a fellow passenger to watch his belongings while he quickly ran to do his business

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Image credits: dlo3

To his surprise, the woman turned down his request, and rather harshly. For a minute, the man thought that she was joking because of how “blunt” she was being, so he smiled and asked her again. The mother snapped and asked him if he couldn’t see that she had enough going on already. She then sighed and looked away, so the OP apologized for bothering her, took his disarrayed bags, and made his way over to the bathroom.

To his surprise, the woman declined and in a rather harsh manner – which, in the moment, the man also thought was pretty uncalled for

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Image credits: dlo3

The woman’s response puzzled the man, so he took his pondering online to find out if he was a jerk for even asking.

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The post garnered quite a lot of attention, and following an array of thoughts from community members, the man decided to add a bit of commentary. He read all of the input and wanted to say that it was made very clear that, in this situation, he was in the wrong. The OP acknowledged the fact that he should’ve used the restroom at the hotel and tidied his stuff up to make it easier to carry. Plus, he shouldn’t have asked a stranger to keep an eye on his belongings for obvious reasons, with the main one being the security risk posed.

Due to the abundance of responses, he later edited the post to include some extra commentary

Image credits: dlo3

He also added that he shouldn’t have assumed that the woman was joking by saying “no” and that that’s the part that he’s embarrassed about the most, since it was a pretty transparent situation. After all, he was a total stranger asking a mother and her offspring to watch a soccer duffle bag and a laptop case in an empty airport.

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The man couldn’t explain why he thought that the woman was having a bit of banter with him, but speculated that it was perhaps just because of his sense of humor. Also, while he originally thought that the tone of her response was somewhat uncalled for, looking back, he realized that she had every right to react the way she did.

The OP acknowledged his wrongdoings and said that the woman had every right to react the way she did

Image credits: dlo3

The author of the post also touched on his “I’m an experienced traveler” statement and said that he should’ve used “I have experience with air travel” instead. The guy is from the States originally, but lived abroad for several years and had to make frequent trips to and from the US for work and studies. He added that he had never asked a stranger for such a favor before and that this for sure was a first and last time.

To top it off, he added that despite giving her a sorry grin as he boarded the plane, he chose not to say anything for fear of making matters worse

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Man Is Puzzled That A Woman Turned Down His Request To Watch His Belongings At The Airport While He Uses The Restroom

Image credits: dlo3

Image credits: Carissa Rogers (not the actual photo)

Finally, he said that he knew that the woman and her child were on his flight, as after he made his way to the airplane, he took a quick glance up and down the aisle and noticed that she was sitting behind him. Turns out, he even gave her an apologetic/pathetic smile to sort of indicate that he was sorry for creeping her out, but he decided not to say anything in case it made the situation worse.

What do you think about this story? Do you believe that the woman’s reaction was reasonable?

Fellow community members shared their verdicts on this matter

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jaykrissy avatar
Jay Krissy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have answered No. Neither is the a*****e. I have been told to never to accept, bring or watch anything for a stranger in an airport from I was youngster. TSA warns people about suspicious luggages and to be aware of people asking you to watch stuff. He is a poor traveler. He had too many loose items to manage, he should have consolidated and take his stuff with him into the restroom which is accommodating of travelers with luggages. He could have finished his coffee and put away his sandwich in his bag.

elliotfowler avatar
Elliot Fowler
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a bad and negative post. I don't care what OP thinks or what all the replies say. Op is not the AH.

corrsfan2015 avatar
Corrsfan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

An airport is a particularly "off" place to ask a stranger to watch your stuff. Politely asking may not be an AH move but he didn't just drop it when she refused; he probed further and that is firmly in AH territory. Just because he asked in a pleasant time doesn't mean it was okay to continue past her NO

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zombie-sushi-gm avatar
ZombieSushi386
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I totally understand the womans response. They warn you not to do this at the airport. There are signs everywhere and I was always told to keep your bags with you at all times and to never agree to watch someone else, or to carry anything onto the plane that you didn't pack yourself for that matter. Back in the day it was probably way easier for a bad guy to pick an unsuspecting dupe to carry out the dirty work without even knowing it. So many movies start just like this and they never end well. Especially if you are a woman.

wendillon avatar
Monday
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah sure but saying the guy is an AH for asking is just dumb. It was fine for him to ask and it was fine for her to refuse. As a woman myself I've watched the bags of strangers running to the restroom a number of times because I'm A: in a public place surrounded by other people and B: not going to actually take the luggage anywhere, just make sure it doesn't get stolen while the stranger is in the bathroom.

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emily_36 avatar
Emily
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All he had was a soccer duffel and a laptop bag, why would that have been obnoxious to bring into the bathroom (compared to large wheeled suitcases)? I don't think OP was the a-hole, I do think he should have managed his time better that morning and gone to the bathroom as soon as he got to the airport (or, if he had to go before he left the hotel, at the hotel) and not stopped to buy coffee and a sandwich before getting to the terminal, if he had to pee so bad! To his credit though, in the responses, he did acknowledge that he was having a bad morning and listened to his bladder instead of better social logic.

alisa-fender avatar
Honu
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm used to the stalls in airport bathrooms being large enough to accommodate a carry-on sized wheeled bag. I usually have one of those and a smaller bag. There is plenty of room for me to wheel that in a stall with me. I get not wanting to take the food in there. I would've left it in the area by the gate and taken my chances. Well, I wouldn't have bought it at all if I knew I needed a bathroom ASAP, but if I was presented with his set of choices in the moment, I would've just left them and taken my bags.

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megan_tyler_dahle avatar
StayClassy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on this guy for owning up to being the AH. "No." is a full sentence and shouldn't have to be explained.

dwongsonegoro avatar
South Monk
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's another angle that op forgot. What if you blame her or your bag watcher for taking something even though bag watcher didn't. For some places this might be common...

leodomitrix avatar
Leo Domitrix
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I take my luggage with. It's annoying, but you just deal with it, b/c there's too many people who've had their luggage seized if it's left alone for under 2 minutes at some US airports.

carlosferreira_1 avatar
Losferatu
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All he did is ask politely. She has every right to decline, rudely or not, of course, but it's not like he inconvenienced her for asking. OP is def NOT the A-Hole.

ashleygalyen avatar
Ashley Galyen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That last time I was in an airport, there were signs all over saying to not leave bags unattended or they will treat it like a bomb. So the logic follows for travelers to not accept bags either. No one wants the TSA after them.

savannahyoung avatar
S
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think OP is an a*****e at all. I don't think the lady is an a*****e either. It's quite literally not that deep.

robert-thornburrow avatar
Robert T
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Once upon a time, I would have happily done so. These days, I absolutely would not. You have no idea what is in the bags, and you are making a big assumption that the guy has been through security. You could be minding a bomb or drugs. I'd be somewhat sceptical of minding a child, which at least would be less likely to explode!

nizumi avatar
Nizumi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Holy c**p. OP says they're at the gate. So they've already passed through security, meaning all bags have been scanned/searched, all identities registered. Small airport = short list of suspects if something does go awry. This woman didn't have to do anything more than keep an eye on the guy's luggage. Not watch it unblinkingly. Not carry it. Not move. Not touch it in any way. Just keep an eye open for anyone going near it and then, hey. just start yelling if someone does go near it. She doesn't have to leave her seat. Unless her son is having a meltdown or has special needs, there's nothing stopping her from being kind to a stranger in a way that puts her at zero risk.

sergiobicerra avatar
Sergio Bicerra
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I read a post about someone asking someone to watch their bags for a couple of minutes and said yes. Several minutes after, too many from the 'couple of minutes' and the owner was nowere to be seen, and the guy or girl turned them to security.

lisadonohue_1 avatar
Say What
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're telling me you'd risk you and your child not being able to fly because you broke a basic security rule and watched someone's bags for them?

wendillon avatar
Monday
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You seem to misunderstand the rule. The security rule is not taking bags from anyone and carrying them around in the airport and onto the flight. There's no rule stating you cannot watch the luggage someone has placed at a different spot to ensure it doesn't get stolen. You never touch the luggage you watch, hell if you touched it the person asking you to watch it would probably be pretty upset.

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aliceimwunderland2000 avatar
Katrin Krueger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A little off topic, but it always amazes me how people can tell good guys from thieves. You are afraid strangers will take your stuff, so you're asking a stranger to watch your stuff? Literally telling them, "I won't be watching it for at least 2 minutes and there are things that could be stolen in there." I think that is so weird.

zeljkoklaric78_1 avatar
Bernd Herbert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, if it's somebody else with you waiting at an airport gate chances are very slim that that person would actually steal from you

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bonnyatlast avatar
BonnyDK
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have no clue what your rules are at your airports, bus terminals, public places but you are never supposed to watch someone else's bag. If you see an abandoned suitcase or backpack move away and report it. Those things can have bombs. Also contraband that you could get arrested for if you are in possession of the luggage. Remember all the bombings??? This is real stuff.

zeljkoklaric78_1 avatar
Bernd Herbert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's a difference between "watching luggage" and "to be in possession of luggage"

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amcgregor7419 avatar
Tams21
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think he's the ah for asking, it doesn't hurt anyone. But I kind of don't like that he seemed to expect she'd say yes and I wonder if that came through in the way he asked. What if she'd agreed and somebody tried to take them, should she put herself at risk trying to stop them? In any case, there's no obligation whatsoever for anyone to look after a total strangers bags. Hopefully lesson learned.

amandadenbrok avatar
Amanda Den Brok
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He is definitely not the AH. I think it's weird we live in a time you are afraid 1. Someone steals your stuff of 2. You have to watch someone's drugs or bombs. Can't we just help each other out without expecting the absolute worse?

zeljkoklaric78_1 avatar
Bernd Herbert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree. I was asked the same question, and I had no problem with keeping an eye on a suitcase while someone else used a suitcase.

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christiennewbury avatar
Chrissyfox
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not the AH. I would have unhesitatingly said 'sure'. The chances of anything dramatic happening in the few minutes the guy was gone are so small as to be virtually non existent. In fact, I was asked to watch a stranger's backpack while he went off to find out why our plane was delayed. So I even benefited from taking five minutes just to keep an eye on his bag because it saved me the job of finding out about the delay myself. You people are paranoid that say No.

robyn63ward avatar
Robyn Ward
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think you are the a*s hole....I would have kept an eye on your things knowing full well how awkward it is to take everything into the loo with...Much better to ask than to have it stolen...NTA...

nonotalways avatar
Bryn
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm really not understanding what was wrong. I was on a cancelled flight and was in the middle of a long line to reschedule and I was hit with a really bad need to use the bathroom. But I didn't want to lose my spot in line. So I asked the guy in front of me if he could watch my bag, and he said yes. I ran off and came back quickly. Am I missing something? Can someone please help?

debiannd12 avatar
Debi Danielsen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Take the bag with you to the bathroom. Why would you even ask a stranger to watch it? Stupid!

shannonsmith_2 avatar
Inclusion2020
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Personally, I wouldn’t be comfortable with watching a strangers bag or leaving my own bag with a stranger. It’s perfectly okay to hold boundaries.

zora24_1 avatar
Trillian
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People really make a big effing deal out of everything. There is nothing to actually "do" while watching someone's stuff. Tell them it's fine but you will notify airport security if they are not back within 10 minutes.

caseymcalister avatar
Casey McAlister
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah, it's a weird thing to ask. Even if we ignore the possibility of this bag containing drugs or explosives, it's not fun watching somebody's baggage. You may need to leave soon, and what are you going to do with those bags? But nobody's a*****e here. OP simply didn't think it through, and the woman, of course, had every right to refuse.

c_devine avatar
Seedy Vine
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you watch someone's bag and a person tries to steal it, what are you expected to do? Fight them to the death for it? No thanks. Also, duffle bags always look to me like they have bodies in them, so I won't be watching anyone's.

miap7 avatar
Mia Poehlmann
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So I may be the only person to think you're NTA. I Have legit ask people to watch my luggage on multiple occasions and I've never had anyone say no It's not like they have to guarantee the safety of my stuff for the next 2 hours her reaction seems excessive as does everyone's insults of you. I've also never had someone tell me no 🙄

isobelyoung avatar
Isobel Young
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think it's great that this guy replied to all these answers it feels like he's becoming a better and better person with each reply.

elafleur avatar
Eric Lafleur
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not really the A-H, But you snouldn't have put that woman in that position either. Airport security's first question is always "Are those your belongings?" You: "Ah, no. I'm keeping an eye on it for someone else." A.S.: "Please come with us..." See the problem here?

marilynrussell avatar
Marilyn Russell
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone here recall being stuck waiting for a long time for a stranger to return back in the day when we did agree to stuff like this, and before we now assume everyone is potential danger? Nothing worse than getting involved in other people’s nonsense and being obligated.

courtneyliston avatar
Stylishsidewaysbird
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have said NTA but thats assuming he is a time traveler from the 1960s before it became common knowledge about travel safety in our modern troubled times. But he is totally an AH since a.) it’s not safe and b.) SHE FREAKING SAID NO!!!!!

susiekamper avatar
Susie Kamper
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why did you need anyone to look after your luggage if no one was at the terminal? Would have said no too.

maxx_castillo avatar
Dude
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTAH but, also not that strangers job to look after your stuff.

cary1029 avatar
Caryle
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anybody thinking that she should’ve watched his bag should watch broke down palace

wendillon avatar
Monday
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone who thinks a Drama/Thriller from the late 90s is a good inspiration for real life behavior over 20 years later needs to re-evaluate that thought.

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moyamcbride avatar
MoMcB
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry, the OP is the a*****e. Do not do this, there is a reason why airport security asks if you packed your own bag.

sergiobicerra avatar
Sergio Bicerra
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes and no, i think. Op just asked, is not like he just left the bags and run away. BUT 100% agree about airport security advice.

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benitavaldez avatar
Benita Valdez
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah neither is the AH. OP is just a bit naive since you're not supposed to leave your bags with someone you don't know at the airport. Security even asks you if you've left your bags unattended or with someone else plus they say not to accept anything at the airport from someone you don't know even if it's just to watch their bag. Once upon a time in the 90's my idiot uncle was caught accepting a bag from someone at the airport. The bag contained either a gun or drugs (I don't recall) and he got arrested and spent time in jail. The story is he didn't know the guy and was just asked to watch it but my aunt has hinted otherwise since she knows her brother has never been the brightest.

alisonreddick avatar
AliJanx
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

ESH - he for asking, she for being b***hy about it. Personally, I wouldn't want to take the responsibility for someone else's stuff, but that's me. I've been asked to watch people's stuff and I've said yes, but the people moved their stuff next to mine. Less about watching and more about proximity. Maybe approaching it as a way to prevent security from taking the stuff would have been better?

pmcclellan avatar
NOLAHusker
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OP wasn't the AH until he asked about her joking. The woman who refused was definitely AH.

emily_36 avatar
Emily
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why can't airports hire somebody to watch people's luggage (like a security guard, but only for luggage) when they have to go to the bathroom? Particularly large families with lots of luggage. Or other people who bring lots of or large luggage, that would be harder to bring into the bathroom, with all the other people who brought their luggage into the bathroom. Seems like a good idea to me

deb-lucas avatar
Dilly Millandry
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you're at the gate you've usually already checked in the majority of your luggage. Should be a small enough amount that you can take it with you to the loo if you are desperate. Before that stage, some airports still have "Left Luggage Services" where they scan your bag to ensure that it is safe and will store it for a fee.

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jaykrissy avatar
Jay Krissy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have answered No. Neither is the a*****e. I have been told to never to accept, bring or watch anything for a stranger in an airport from I was youngster. TSA warns people about suspicious luggages and to be aware of people asking you to watch stuff. He is a poor traveler. He had too many loose items to manage, he should have consolidated and take his stuff with him into the restroom which is accommodating of travelers with luggages. He could have finished his coffee and put away his sandwich in his bag.

elliotfowler avatar
Elliot Fowler
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What a bad and negative post. I don't care what OP thinks or what all the replies say. Op is not the AH.

corrsfan2015 avatar
Corrsfan
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

An airport is a particularly "off" place to ask a stranger to watch your stuff. Politely asking may not be an AH move but he didn't just drop it when she refused; he probed further and that is firmly in AH territory. Just because he asked in a pleasant time doesn't mean it was okay to continue past her NO

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zombie-sushi-gm avatar
ZombieSushi386
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I totally understand the womans response. They warn you not to do this at the airport. There are signs everywhere and I was always told to keep your bags with you at all times and to never agree to watch someone else, or to carry anything onto the plane that you didn't pack yourself for that matter. Back in the day it was probably way easier for a bad guy to pick an unsuspecting dupe to carry out the dirty work without even knowing it. So many movies start just like this and they never end well. Especially if you are a woman.

wendillon avatar
Monday
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah sure but saying the guy is an AH for asking is just dumb. It was fine for him to ask and it was fine for her to refuse. As a woman myself I've watched the bags of strangers running to the restroom a number of times because I'm A: in a public place surrounded by other people and B: not going to actually take the luggage anywhere, just make sure it doesn't get stolen while the stranger is in the bathroom.

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emily_36 avatar
Emily
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All he had was a soccer duffel and a laptop bag, why would that have been obnoxious to bring into the bathroom (compared to large wheeled suitcases)? I don't think OP was the a-hole, I do think he should have managed his time better that morning and gone to the bathroom as soon as he got to the airport (or, if he had to go before he left the hotel, at the hotel) and not stopped to buy coffee and a sandwich before getting to the terminal, if he had to pee so bad! To his credit though, in the responses, he did acknowledge that he was having a bad morning and listened to his bladder instead of better social logic.

alisa-fender avatar
Honu
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm used to the stalls in airport bathrooms being large enough to accommodate a carry-on sized wheeled bag. I usually have one of those and a smaller bag. There is plenty of room for me to wheel that in a stall with me. I get not wanting to take the food in there. I would've left it in the area by the gate and taken my chances. Well, I wouldn't have bought it at all if I knew I needed a bathroom ASAP, but if I was presented with his set of choices in the moment, I would've just left them and taken my bags.

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megan_tyler_dahle avatar
StayClassy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good on this guy for owning up to being the AH. "No." is a full sentence and shouldn't have to be explained.

dwongsonegoro avatar
South Monk
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's another angle that op forgot. What if you blame her or your bag watcher for taking something even though bag watcher didn't. For some places this might be common...

leodomitrix avatar
Leo Domitrix
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I take my luggage with. It's annoying, but you just deal with it, b/c there's too many people who've had their luggage seized if it's left alone for under 2 minutes at some US airports.

carlosferreira_1 avatar
Losferatu
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

All he did is ask politely. She has every right to decline, rudely or not, of course, but it's not like he inconvenienced her for asking. OP is def NOT the A-Hole.

ashleygalyen avatar
Ashley Galyen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That last time I was in an airport, there were signs all over saying to not leave bags unattended or they will treat it like a bomb. So the logic follows for travelers to not accept bags either. No one wants the TSA after them.

savannahyoung avatar
S
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think OP is an a*****e at all. I don't think the lady is an a*****e either. It's quite literally not that deep.

robert-thornburrow avatar
Robert T
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Once upon a time, I would have happily done so. These days, I absolutely would not. You have no idea what is in the bags, and you are making a big assumption that the guy has been through security. You could be minding a bomb or drugs. I'd be somewhat sceptical of minding a child, which at least would be less likely to explode!

nizumi avatar
Nizumi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Holy c**p. OP says they're at the gate. So they've already passed through security, meaning all bags have been scanned/searched, all identities registered. Small airport = short list of suspects if something does go awry. This woman didn't have to do anything more than keep an eye on the guy's luggage. Not watch it unblinkingly. Not carry it. Not move. Not touch it in any way. Just keep an eye open for anyone going near it and then, hey. just start yelling if someone does go near it. She doesn't have to leave her seat. Unless her son is having a meltdown or has special needs, there's nothing stopping her from being kind to a stranger in a way that puts her at zero risk.

sergiobicerra avatar
Sergio Bicerra
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I read a post about someone asking someone to watch their bags for a couple of minutes and said yes. Several minutes after, too many from the 'couple of minutes' and the owner was nowere to be seen, and the guy or girl turned them to security.

lisadonohue_1 avatar
Say What
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You're telling me you'd risk you and your child not being able to fly because you broke a basic security rule and watched someone's bags for them?

wendillon avatar
Monday
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You seem to misunderstand the rule. The security rule is not taking bags from anyone and carrying them around in the airport and onto the flight. There's no rule stating you cannot watch the luggage someone has placed at a different spot to ensure it doesn't get stolen. You never touch the luggage you watch, hell if you touched it the person asking you to watch it would probably be pretty upset.

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aliceimwunderland2000 avatar
Katrin Krueger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

A little off topic, but it always amazes me how people can tell good guys from thieves. You are afraid strangers will take your stuff, so you're asking a stranger to watch your stuff? Literally telling them, "I won't be watching it for at least 2 minutes and there are things that could be stolen in there." I think that is so weird.

zeljkoklaric78_1 avatar
Bernd Herbert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Well, if it's somebody else with you waiting at an airport gate chances are very slim that that person would actually steal from you

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bonnyatlast avatar
BonnyDK
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have no clue what your rules are at your airports, bus terminals, public places but you are never supposed to watch someone else's bag. If you see an abandoned suitcase or backpack move away and report it. Those things can have bombs. Also contraband that you could get arrested for if you are in possession of the luggage. Remember all the bombings??? This is real stuff.

zeljkoklaric78_1 avatar
Bernd Herbert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's a difference between "watching luggage" and "to be in possession of luggage"

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amcgregor7419 avatar
Tams21
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think he's the ah for asking, it doesn't hurt anyone. But I kind of don't like that he seemed to expect she'd say yes and I wonder if that came through in the way he asked. What if she'd agreed and somebody tried to take them, should she put herself at risk trying to stop them? In any case, there's no obligation whatsoever for anyone to look after a total strangers bags. Hopefully lesson learned.

amandadenbrok avatar
Amanda Den Brok
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

He is definitely not the AH. I think it's weird we live in a time you are afraid 1. Someone steals your stuff of 2. You have to watch someone's drugs or bombs. Can't we just help each other out without expecting the absolute worse?

zeljkoklaric78_1 avatar
Bernd Herbert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree. I was asked the same question, and I had no problem with keeping an eye on a suitcase while someone else used a suitcase.

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christiennewbury avatar
Chrissyfox
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not the AH. I would have unhesitatingly said 'sure'. The chances of anything dramatic happening in the few minutes the guy was gone are so small as to be virtually non existent. In fact, I was asked to watch a stranger's backpack while he went off to find out why our plane was delayed. So I even benefited from taking five minutes just to keep an eye on his bag because it saved me the job of finding out about the delay myself. You people are paranoid that say No.

robyn63ward avatar
Robyn Ward
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't think you are the a*s hole....I would have kept an eye on your things knowing full well how awkward it is to take everything into the loo with...Much better to ask than to have it stolen...NTA...

nonotalways avatar
Bryn
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm really not understanding what was wrong. I was on a cancelled flight and was in the middle of a long line to reschedule and I was hit with a really bad need to use the bathroom. But I didn't want to lose my spot in line. So I asked the guy in front of me if he could watch my bag, and he said yes. I ran off and came back quickly. Am I missing something? Can someone please help?

debiannd12 avatar
Debi Danielsen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Take the bag with you to the bathroom. Why would you even ask a stranger to watch it? Stupid!

shannonsmith_2 avatar
Inclusion2020
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Personally, I wouldn’t be comfortable with watching a strangers bag or leaving my own bag with a stranger. It’s perfectly okay to hold boundaries.

zora24_1 avatar
Trillian
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

People really make a big effing deal out of everything. There is nothing to actually "do" while watching someone's stuff. Tell them it's fine but you will notify airport security if they are not back within 10 minutes.

caseymcalister avatar
Casey McAlister
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah, it's a weird thing to ask. Even if we ignore the possibility of this bag containing drugs or explosives, it's not fun watching somebody's baggage. You may need to leave soon, and what are you going to do with those bags? But nobody's a*****e here. OP simply didn't think it through, and the woman, of course, had every right to refuse.

c_devine avatar
Seedy Vine
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you watch someone's bag and a person tries to steal it, what are you expected to do? Fight them to the death for it? No thanks. Also, duffle bags always look to me like they have bodies in them, so I won't be watching anyone's.

miap7 avatar
Mia Poehlmann
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So I may be the only person to think you're NTA. I Have legit ask people to watch my luggage on multiple occasions and I've never had anyone say no It's not like they have to guarantee the safety of my stuff for the next 2 hours her reaction seems excessive as does everyone's insults of you. I've also never had someone tell me no 🙄

isobelyoung avatar
Isobel Young
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I think it's great that this guy replied to all these answers it feels like he's becoming a better and better person with each reply.

elafleur avatar
Eric Lafleur
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not really the A-H, But you snouldn't have put that woman in that position either. Airport security's first question is always "Are those your belongings?" You: "Ah, no. I'm keeping an eye on it for someone else." A.S.: "Please come with us..." See the problem here?

marilynrussell avatar
Marilyn Russell
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone here recall being stuck waiting for a long time for a stranger to return back in the day when we did agree to stuff like this, and before we now assume everyone is potential danger? Nothing worse than getting involved in other people’s nonsense and being obligated.

courtneyliston avatar
Stylishsidewaysbird
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would have said NTA but thats assuming he is a time traveler from the 1960s before it became common knowledge about travel safety in our modern troubled times. But he is totally an AH since a.) it’s not safe and b.) SHE FREAKING SAID NO!!!!!

susiekamper avatar
Susie Kamper
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why did you need anyone to look after your luggage if no one was at the terminal? Would have said no too.

maxx_castillo avatar
Dude
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTAH but, also not that strangers job to look after your stuff.

cary1029 avatar
Caryle
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anybody thinking that she should’ve watched his bag should watch broke down palace

wendillon avatar
Monday
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Anyone who thinks a Drama/Thriller from the late 90s is a good inspiration for real life behavior over 20 years later needs to re-evaluate that thought.

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moyamcbride avatar
MoMcB
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sorry, the OP is the a*****e. Do not do this, there is a reason why airport security asks if you packed your own bag.

sergiobicerra avatar
Sergio Bicerra
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes and no, i think. Op just asked, is not like he just left the bags and run away. BUT 100% agree about airport security advice.

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benitavaldez avatar
Benita Valdez
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah neither is the AH. OP is just a bit naive since you're not supposed to leave your bags with someone you don't know at the airport. Security even asks you if you've left your bags unattended or with someone else plus they say not to accept anything at the airport from someone you don't know even if it's just to watch their bag. Once upon a time in the 90's my idiot uncle was caught accepting a bag from someone at the airport. The bag contained either a gun or drugs (I don't recall) and he got arrested and spent time in jail. The story is he didn't know the guy and was just asked to watch it but my aunt has hinted otherwise since she knows her brother has never been the brightest.

alisonreddick avatar
AliJanx
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

ESH - he for asking, she for being b***hy about it. Personally, I wouldn't want to take the responsibility for someone else's stuff, but that's me. I've been asked to watch people's stuff and I've said yes, but the people moved their stuff next to mine. Less about watching and more about proximity. Maybe approaching it as a way to prevent security from taking the stuff would have been better?

pmcclellan avatar
NOLAHusker
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OP wasn't the AH until he asked about her joking. The woman who refused was definitely AH.

emily_36 avatar
Emily
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why can't airports hire somebody to watch people's luggage (like a security guard, but only for luggage) when they have to go to the bathroom? Particularly large families with lots of luggage. Or other people who bring lots of or large luggage, that would be harder to bring into the bathroom, with all the other people who brought their luggage into the bathroom. Seems like a good idea to me

deb-lucas avatar
Dilly Millandry
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you're at the gate you've usually already checked in the majority of your luggage. Should be a small enough amount that you can take it with you to the loo if you are desperate. Before that stage, some airports still have "Left Luggage Services" where they scan your bag to ensure that it is safe and will store it for a fee.

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