TSA approved baggage locks?
 

I have read about these new baggage locks approved by TSA--anyone have any experience using one?

They work just fine--have had no problems with them. The TSA agents manning the xray machines as well as supervisors appear to have the keys.

Thanks! We are travelling in April and I HATE leaving bags unlocked!

My co-worker used one a few weeks ago. When the luggage came off the belt, the locks were gone and the luggage had been searched. So....

However, that said PLEASE realize that those locks are going to provide little to NO security for your stuff. If the TSA has the "key" what makes you think that some dishonest airline employee does not have the key? My personal theory is that the locks just signify to dishonest people that you might have something worth taking.

I read a post on anther board where a woman checked a thousand dollar camera in her luggage and locked if after the TSA did thier search. When she landed the camera was gone and of course it is not covered by the airline which specifically excludes electronics!

No keyed luggage lock provides perfect security--you can open them with a hairpin or any key that will fit into the thing. However, they do reduce the chance of accidental opening significantly. Of course with soft luggage, a pocket knife will open it up easily.

Even with the locks I think the only thing you could probably count on is their providing some extra security against your bags accidentally opening; I wouldn't pack anything of major value in my checked baggage..carry it on instead.

Just use the plastic cables. If the TSA opens it they will put their cables back on.

Gretchen has it right. They are called cable ties & available in bunches at Home Depot-type stores. Be sure to carry some with you for frequent replacement. Don't forget the little nail clippers to cut them when you want to open the suitcase.

I don't understand the point of the cable ties except to prevent the bag from opening accidentally. If you can cut them with nail clippers, they are no protection against thieves.

I used the ties on my trip to Paris; none were cut off by the TSA. I wanted them on as my luggage has a few zippered compartments that I wanted to secure so nothing could be put in them if they were not secured.
That's right, cable ties are no deterrent for thieves. In fact, nothing is foolproof. They can steal your luggage in whole if they want.