What happens to that nail file or lighter the TSA had to take away?

If you’ve ever wondered what happens to all that stuff people have to part with at the airport security gate – it gets sold! 

Technically, the security agencies are supposed to reunite you with your stuff, assuming they can find it. Just don’t expect them to go out of their way to help you out. The harder it is for you to get your stuff back, the less likely you are to NOT follow the rules next time.

Eventually, unclaimed items are turned over to state surplus property agencies who sell it on line or at retail outlets. The same goes for lost or unclaimed luggage.