I saw information on Frommer's regarding the Travel Sentry locks approved by the TSA. Has anyone used these? Apparently the locks have a special code so TSA agents can unlock them using special tools. Then they relock them. Would this be a good purchase? Thanks.

Hi cheuv,

We found that the cable ties were perfectly OK.

Bring a small pair of blunt pointed scissors (acceptable for carry on) so that you can open them.

I looked into the websites of one of the vendors that sells the TSA approved locks and it provides customers' reviews regarding the locks. Most were negative. One person said that the airport personnel couldn't locate the master combination to open his lock and others say the locks were broken anyway as the personnel either didn't realize there are approved TSA locks or they just didn't check properly.

I wouldn't buy it.

Actually, I believe these locks have a special tool or key with which the TSA can open them. However, I do agree that it would probably be prudent to wait until they've been around awhile.

Cable ties are great. Especially if they are available by the bucketful at work. We use nail clippers to remove. When we went to the Caribbean recently, they opened everything while we stood there, so we had to keep replacing them, they didn't. Last domestic trip, they cut one on my suitcase & replaced with that blue plastic "lock" they use.
I would be reluctant to use new Travel Sentry for above mentioned reasons.
Another funny note-- my husband is practically strip searched everytime we go through security. Me? I could carry thru an Uzi & they would say wave me on & say "Have a nice day, Ma'am."

Cable ties and nail clippers is all you need. And don't buy themm in a luggage/travel shop. They are VERY cheap in any hardware store.

janeg.

So tell us how you slip that uzzie through? Is it under your clothing or wrapped in a lead bag in your carry on?

Did you buy it from the uzzie galleria in Florence?

icithecat: In a violin case, of course.

I saw disposable locks in a store, anybody knows if they are useful, allowed, convenient?

Ah. Of course. Nobody would think to look in a violin case.

FainaAgain
wire ties, wire ties, wire ties!
We go through too many to buy those cute little lock-shaped things.

Wire ties... just think of all the uses... first luggage... then in a hotel room... ahhh, makes me dream of taking my husband along!