how to keep luggage closed

[Momtoredheads]

I know this sounds like a stupid question but we are leaving Saturday and I am concerned with how to keep the suitcases from opening up since we can't use luggage locks any longer. Any suggestions would be appreciated!! Thanks!

 

[Kath2003]

Get a TDA lock or tie ribbon/string around the zip/handles?

 

[travelin' tigger]

I know this sounds like a stupid question but we are leaving Saturday and I am concerned with how to keep the suitcases from opening up since we can't use luggage locks any longer. Any suggestions would be appreciated!! Thanks!

I use zipties on all my checked luggage, then put a small pair of sizzors in my carry-on. Never a problem.

 

[safetymom]

You can use the cable ties you can buy at Home Depot, Lowes. Just pack some fingernail clippers to cut them.

You could buy the TSA locks. Just don't put anything of importance in your luggage.

 

[perdidochas]

I use zipties on all my checked luggage, then put a small pair of sizzors in my carry-on. Never a problem.

Can you still carry scissors in a carry-on?

The last time I flew, I put scissors in an outside pocket of my luggage to open the cable ties.

 

[mom*to*2*princesses]

We've flown many times using the TSA locks with no problems. I do not put anything remotely valuable in our checked luggage, though, and I also use packing bags and ziplocs to keep smaller items together and organized in case a bag does get opened up. We put scissors in outside pocket of our checked luggage. Check the tsa site for specifics--I think there might be size restrictions.

 

[Mickiethepooh]

If you are concerned with keeping zippers closed etc. so no one steals anything then the zip ties are the answer if you mean keep suitcase from bursting open, then get luggage straps from Samsonite or American tourister etc. they are webbed belts that go around the suitcase and fasten.

 

[bulah1]

OK, I'm a dummy... we can't use LOCKS on our luggage now? Is this for all checked luggage at airports? I'm confused... sorry! LOL

 

[suzimar57]

there are TSA approved locks, but it's easier/cheaper just to get those cable ties at home depot to use instead

we also strap a (non-lockable) neon yellow luggage strap around the entire luggage (more for recognizing it on the luggage carousel) as well

oh - and lots of neon yellow duct tape "dots" to make it really stand out!!

but as far as locking your checked luggage?

don't bother - just use the cable ties and pack a small scissor or nail clipper in the outside pocket to cut it off with after you arrive

 

[Jenniww]

On our last trip I used those space saver bags. They worked wonders!! Suitcases looked almost empty so I had to pack more lol

 

[disneyag]

You can find TSA approved luggage locks at Target/Walmart etc for about $4. It's no problem at all to use them. They have combination locks or key locks. I have used mine for several years without issue. My luggage has been opened by TSA a couple of times and they always re-lock it.

 

[PurpleEars]

For a really cheap solution, you can just use a standard paper clip to loop through the zipper pulls. When you get there you can just take the paper clip off (though you'll have to remember where you put it for the return trip!) We have been doing that for >5 years and have not encountered any problems (well, except for a few bent paper clips).

 

[Momtoredheads]

Thanks everyone for all your help. I think we may go with the TSA locks. I really appreciate everyone that took the time to respond and for such great feedback!!!

 

[KUrbaniak]

Hi. We use luggage straps. You can find them usually at a luggage shop. We take extra just in case my wife does alot of shopping... HaHa

 

[Kies99]

For those of you who may be questioning what a TSA lock is, it's a standard combination or key lock like in the past. However, each lock has a TSA (Transportation Safety Administration) number on it. This number corresponds to a TSA "Skeleton" key that a TSA employee can use to open the TSA lock. That way the case can be opened, searched and then relocked.

 

[MissMet]

If you use anything other than the TSA locks, they will cut them off, so zip ties, etc. are pointless, because they will be cut off before the bag even gets to the plane.

Almost any suitcase lock you buy now is TSA approved. I had to get them for my trip to Egypt. I would suggestion the combination ones & NOT the ones that use a key. Someone in our group lost their key & so they just tried other group member's keys & they worked & they weren't even the same company! As for the suitcase opening, get a luggage strap. I'm looking to purchase new ones when I get to WDW.

 

[travelin' tigger]

If you use anything other than the TSA locks, they will cut them off, so zip ties, etc. are pointless, because they will be cut off before the bag even gets to the plane.

Maybe I'm a minority here, but I've had my zipties cut off only once in MANY trips by TSA and they put a note in my luggage informing me of the search and re-sealed it with a new zip. I find them a great way to keep my stuff closed!

 

[suzimar57]

i've never had my cable ties cut off in the past 5 years of using them

 

[MissMet]

Maybe it's international flight than? I've never used locks on my luggage & never had anything stolen or had anything fallen out. When it was time to take my trip to Egypt, I was instructed to not use zip ties or anyhting else, except TSA locks. Maybe it's just international flights.

 

[The Rocketeer]

I, too, use zip ties and have never had them cut off, including many trips to Europe. But instead of carrying on scissors, I bring small nail clippers to remove the ties. They work great.