Traveling by AIR-locking suitcases?

[hookedondizney]

I have read in several places about the luggage being searched at the airport. Some that have packed in ziplock bags had their bags cut open with a knife during a search. What would happen if I bought a suitcase lock-do they break them? What about these blue zip-tie's people are talking about, is that so you know that it was searched? I haven't traveled since 9-11 and I am not up-to-par with this subject. Someone please help! Any great tips would be appreciated!

 

[hookedondizney]

bump-please help!

 

[Pinnie]

DO NOT lock your suitcases. If the TSA decides they need to go through your luggage, they will cut the lock.

We had one of our duffle bags searched last week. Don't know WHY, but we realized it was searched when we saw the tell tale plastic tie they put on the zipper pull. Sure enough there was my little "note" inside my bag when I got home! We never lock our bags and never put anything of any value in checked luggage other than shoes and clothes.

pin

 

[SueM in MN]

The locks never kept anyone out who really wanted to go in your suitcases anyway. There were only a few types of locks and keys and the locks can be easily broken off. I have seen locks come flying off when the suitcase hits the conveyor belt just right. The lcoks are more to keep the suitcase from opening accidentally than to keep anyone out of it.

As was already mentioned, the screeners will break locks if they have to to check your luggage. Here's a link to the Transportation Safety Administration website with information about locks on bags.

 

[alloyd1170]

There are new luggage locks that can be opened by security and relocked. Ive seen them in several travel magazines. Dont know how they work, but might solve your problem. Theyre not cheap (think 2 for ~$20 in one place).

alison

 

[hookedondizney]

thanks everyone!

 

[EsmeraldaX]

I wouldn't lock it if you care about your luggage.

Also, if you have anything you think might raise suspicion, let them know ahead of time. When I left MCO in Feb I told them I had a large knife in my checked luggage that might show up as something weird on their machines. They were really nice about it and careful to not break it (it was an expensive replica of a historical dagger).

Have a fun trip!

 

[CarolA]

I think that all locks do is alert people that there is something in the luggage that might be worth taking.

Just don't check anything of value. (You rarely hear about undies being stolen LOL!) Do not put electronics and/or jewerly in the checked baggage.

 

[cajunfan]

I plan on locking my suitcases...I don't have anything of cvalue to anyone but myself, but don't want to have to replace them either. (coins for pressed pennies that are too heavy to carry on...lots of pins for trading). I bought the TSA approved locks (you can get them at AAA for about $8 each). They come with a guarntee that if security cuts them to enter your luggage, they will replace the lock.

 

[safetymom]

Don't put anything in your suitcase that you don't want to lose.

 

[SueM in MN]

Originally posted by cajunfan
I bought the TSA approved locks (you can get them at AAA for about $8 each). They come with a guarntee that if security cuts them to enter your luggage, they will replace the lock.

I don't remember if it was on this board or in the newspaper, but a few weeks ago, I read about someone who had those locks and the TSA people at the airport had never seen them before and didn't have the special keys the are supposed to have to unlock them.
So, until they become more common, it's good to know that they come with a guarantee.

 

[jordgubben]

As someone who only ever used the "lock" on the suitcase as a way to ensure they would not unzip themselves during travel what the alternative. Can I use wireties instead? If they cut off a wire tie will they put one back on?


Just curious really.

 

[juliegirl]

My bag was searched on our trip, got a note inside, and the lock was closed with a plastic tie. It came off very easily though when pulled. Like some have said, I think locks serve more to keep the luggage closed, not secure.

We have flown many times since 9/11, this last trip I thought security was more vigilant than ever.

 

[CarolA]

If you are locking your luggage due to weight. Be aware that the airlines have started charging. On Delta it is $25 if any one piece weighs more then 50 lbs and $50 if the piece weighs more then 70 lbs.

Pins and coins can add up to a lot a of weight in a hurry.

I have checked my pins, but I am to the stage that I really don't care anymore about the pins. (I just can't figure out how to get rid of them! LOL!) Keep in mind that replacement value would be limited to cost or about $1000 per piece of luggage if lost. If stolen, first you have to convince the airline that you actually had said item.

 

[Rapunsel]

Use zip ties to close your suitcase. Then put a pair of scissors in an out side pocket.

That is what I have done, But I have had clothes missing in the past. thsye searched my husbands bags and forgot to replace 4 items. The airlines would not reimburse us as it was not 'their' fault.

I also put down a sheet to line my suitcase with and then put the items in that and then fold it over the contents and put a piece of paper with my address of my destination. In case my luggage tag falls off. it also makes me hope that they put everything back.

I never have had any problems. But they will check your suitcase if you have saran wrap in it... The kind I like I can only get in California..


Mostly they are looking for 'bomb' materials. Like glue sticks show up as an explosive. My dad passes everything on to me as he makes and designs the x-ray amchines.. Also film is not harmed if you take it as carry on. Don't check it..

 

[safetymom]

It is a good idea to put a copy of your flights, hotel info and a contact phone number inside your suitcase in case something happens to your luggage.

 

[Nanu57v]

My luggage always gets searched, so I never lock. Maybe because I have cheap luggage. Be careful when using luggage with locks that can't be cut. They told me they'll just break the luggage if they can't get in.

I just put anything of value in my carry-on. Laundry gets checked.

 

[tink2dw]

Don't use bags with a lot of zippers, TSA broke them all, even pulled the teeth apart ruining the zippers for good! Pulling the little zip handles off, There wasn't any note either. Airline would not do anything to replace bag!!

 

[hercamore]

You can l"lock" your zippres with twisty ties or pipe cleaners.

herc.