“When a laptop is left behind, it's recorded in the lost and found log at the airport and stored in a secure location,” the TSA said in the caption. “The most common way laptops are forgotten is when travelers stack a bin on top of the bin their laptop is in.

If you accidentally leave your laptop in your checked bag, the most immediate concern is the lithium-ion battery. FAA and international aviation regulations generally prohibit large lithium batteries in the cargo hold because they pose a fire risk that is difficult to extinguish at 30,000 feet. In most cases, your bag will be flagged during X-ray screening. Security (TSA) may open your bag and remove the laptop, leaving a notice inside. If the flight is domestic and the battery is small, it might be allowed to stay, but it is risky. Beyond fire safety, there is a high risk of physical damage; checked bags are subjected to significant pressure, tossing, and extreme cold in the cargo hold, which can crack screens or damage hard drives. Furthermore, checked bags are not always secure, and high-value electronics like laptops are frequent targets for theft. If you realize your mistake before the plane doors close, tell a gate agent immediately to see if the bag can be retrieved.