Baggage checking

[IowaMan]

I've been told by a few people that I won't be able to lock my checked luggage on a flight I'll be taking this next week. I didn't realize this and went ahead and purchased some locks for my luggage. Here's what it says on the packaging of the locks I bought:

* The new standard for locking checked baggage. (TSA will no longer request that you leave your checked baggage unlocked)

* Sturdy brass construction

* Complete with 6 user keys


1. Each Travel Sentry Certified Lock has a special identification mark allerting the TSA that they can open this lock without destroying it.

2. Each of these locks has a special TSA code.

3. Each TSA screening location is able to use these codes and secured tools to open the lock and then relock it after inspection.



My plan is to just go ahead with locking my luggage and just asking them about it when I get to the airport to check my baggage. Will I be wasting my time by doing that?

[Lilith]

Lock it. I'm sure they will tell you if they want you to unlock it.

[PantyFanatic]

This (http://www.orbitz.com/App/ViewTravelWatchArticle?headline=Time-savers%3A+Security+at+the+airport) may have some information.

[IowaMan]

Thanks Lilith & PF. :thumb:

[maddy]

I don't bother with locking my luggage anymore. The locks you bought can be used since they are TSA approved, if your bag needs a full search they won't have to rip the zipper off the bag to do so. If it does go through a full search, you will be left with a nice little note from TSA when you get your bag on the other side.

[osuche]

I guess I'm a little puzzled. I've never locked a suitcase, and never wanted to. I'v enot had anything stolen in about 15 years of traveling -- not ever. Now, I don't pack laptops and I keep me electronics on me...but I often leave jewelery in my suitcase.

I think you can do what you want, I'm just not sure you need to worry about it.

[Lilith]

I'm heading on a cruise and they advise you lock your suitcases.

[Oldfart]

Are you locking the bags to keep little fingers out or to show whether the bags have been tampered with?

If you're trying to keep stuff from being pinched, a rigid case without a zipper's the way to go.

If tampering is your focus, numbered plastic ratchetting seals are better.