Originally Posted by
Himeno
TSA has never left a note in my bag, despite it being obvious they have been inside.
The item in question is a plastic toy/prop which is kept in bubblewrap. It isn't replaceable as it hasn't been made for 12 years. Some friends are suggesting that its repairable.
It won't help this time, but I have carried a rider on my business insurance (may be available for home owners insurance) that cover items with which I travel. It is really inexpensive at just over $100 a year. I have had one claim, $7000+, when all of my tools were stolen from my rental car.
There is a down side. It only covers listed items. I have to make an inventory of those items I want to insure, provide values, model numbers, serial numbers and such as may available. I also now keep a folder of photos.
For items that you regularly have when you travel that are difficult to replace or expensive, the insurance is cheap.