Flying, Airport Security and a new Provari - so not good :(

[blue8091]

What a bummer. Posting so other provari owners are aware. Brand new black provari - traveling on business and first time flying with my provari. All I had was a carry on and the provari was tucked, battery loaded in my toiletries bag. Sure enough it was spotted on xray - security removed it from the bag and rubbed something all over it and sent it through xray again. They made me power it down (forgot to do that) but I passed through security - put it back where it was. When I landed, took it out of my bag - the black chrome finish - ruined. I was crushed. Instead of 2 days old it now looks like it's been used hard and worn out. I'd say the finish is about 75% GONE. Is it possible to do anything about this? I'm still on the road as I post and I'll be back home in just a little over a week - gotta go back through security again and I'm guessing by the time I land - you won't even be able to tell I had a black chrome Provari.

 

[Duekster]

Wow, that sucks. I would send it back under warranty. That stuff they rub has been used on my lap top and other things. All it is does is pick up residuals they can test for explosives.

 

[Shortstuff116]

If it were me, the first thing I would do it contact TSA and file a formal complaint about the damage they did, regardless of their reasoning. I would then email Provape and explain exactly what happened also (no bs) and ask them if they can help you out under warranty. I've heard some amazing stories about just how forgiving Provape can be, but you never know.

The wheel that squeeks gets the oil.

 

[Duekster]

The TSA has the right to swipe down a device and test it for residuals. I doubt the materials were harsh, I have had many of my items wiped down without any damages.

I am not sure what they use but I suspect it is some sort of alcohol that evaporates quickly leaving just the residual on the sample cloth.

 

[blue8091]

I wanted to jump back here to let you know that David at Pro Vape has already responded and has offered to refinish my Provari for me, which is outstanding customer service. He said he has flown with his many times and no problems so I wonder what on earth they used on mine? It must vary from airport to airport - so watch out flying thru MCI in KC, MO is more specific. I don't return for a bit yet so we'll see what happens on my return flight. I just wanted to be sure to let everyone know I've received excellent customer service.

PS-I do agree that the TSA has the right to swipe down an electronic device - no complaints on that - just totally bummed out they ruined my 2 day old Provari finish.

 

[mendnwngs]

Stories like this burn me up..
Sure the TSA has a right to test your stuff for non-allowed substances.. But you too have a right, to get your stuff back in the same condition it was when the TSA took it..

Otherwise, why wouldn't they just "test" every bag coming through security by placing it on top of a small explosive charge, and detonating it. That would effectively render safe any potential hazard in anyones suitcase, and who cares if it damages their stuff..

"We're the TSA, and we'll tell you what we'll allow you to think and do.. This is for your own protection, citizen."

Friggin jack-boot wearing, over-inflated ego, ineffectual, thin-skinned, petulant child of a natinoal agency... YOU ARE A DISGRACE TO THE BADGE YOU WEAR.. YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED!!

I'm going to go take a tylenol, put my wallet between my teeth, and vibrate for a while..

Sorry.. they're adjusting my meds

 

[Duekster]

Mend - I have no problem getting rid of the TSA as it is pretty worthless as designed.

Blue - Glad Provape stepped up and agreed to refinish the unit and it seems only right.

 

[mendnwngs]

Agreed.. I too am glad Provape is taking care of you.. They really are about the top on customer service of any company, in any industry I've ever worked with.

Sorry for the birdwalk above.. I travel a *lot* for work, so I have to mind myself in airports.. It just really chops my hide, some of the insanity I see going on..

 

[dotma]

Sure the TSA has a right to test your stuff for non-allowed substances.. But you too have a right, to get your stuff back in the same condition it was when the TSA took it..

Otherwise, why wouldn't they just "test" every bag coming through security by placing it on top of a small explosive charge, and detonating it. That would effectively render safe any potential hazard in anyones suitcase, and who cares if it damages their stuff..

Agreed -- they can damage your stuff and not have to be held accountable for anything? I already know that any of my bags that go on an airplane are apparently thrown about by giant apes, run over with trucks and put through a leaf shredder before they finally arrive at their destination.

 

[Duekster]

I too travel a fair amount approximately 25 flights a year.

I carried my e-cig and it was not even noticed.

Granted, I took it apart and removed the batteries. It was also in a bag with a projector, lap top, cell phone, and all the accessories. When they have wiped down those items the finish was never harmed in any way.

Never pack electronics in checked bags. Never pack prescriptions in checked bags. Never pack valuables in checked bags. Never put in breakable / irreplaceable items in checked bags.