How to Capture the Best Airport Bin Content Without Disrupting Fellow Travelers

Hopping on the social media trend of posting the perfect “airport bin aesthetic” may have just gotten a little less intimidating — and less annoying to travelers around you.

The trend, where travelers show off their perfectly curated belongings — like a passport, camera, some cute jewelry, or knick-knacks — in an airport security bin became a mainstay on social media this summer. But how does one take the time to meticulously stage their items for the perfect pic in the chaos of a TSA line? Content creator Chelsea Henriquez, who’s mastered the trend, recently, and thankfully, shared her tips with Travel + Leisure.

“My biggest piece of advice for someone wanting to try this out would be to take their airport bins with them after they go through TSA so that they’re not in anyone’s way when they do this,” she told T+L. “It will also give you peace of mind and a clear headspace to play around with your tray arrangement.”

And the TSA is OK with it.

“As long as the staged glamour photos are not causing delays or issues with other passengers in the checkpoint, there are no issues,” the TSA recently told ABC News. However the agency spokesperson added that travelers should be mindful of their belongings including “any light items on top that could be swept out of the bins when they go into the machines.”

Henriquez, also noted that she’s heard of some creators “buying the tray to take their photos at home instead, which is also very smart.” 

Now when it comes what to actually put in your bin, Henriqez suggests keeping it personal and fun.

“I think the motto is ‘random but cohesive,’ she explained. “There’s something so visually satisfying about seeing our ‘coolest’ pieces displayed in something as mundane as an airport bin. Love to see a passport next to a bottle of perfume that matches the color of your bag and sunnies for the day.” 

Henrique’s several posts about her capturing airport bin aesthetics have garnered thousands of views — and a variety of reactions with viewers assuming she’s holding up the TSA line.

“I will say I was surprised by how many people were bothered by the trend, especially after I explained that I do this once I’m completely through the TSA line and out of everyone’s way,”  Henriquez added. “My thought is: if it’s not hurting or bothering anyone, what’s the harm in taking a fun aesthetic photo? You wouldn’t think twice if a family stopped to take a photo to commemorate their travels at the airport, in many ways this is similar.”