Roberta Aguirre
When travelling by air, it is natural to worry about the safety of your checked luggage. Using a lock on your suitcase can deter thieves and prevent your belongings from falling out. However, locks are not a guarantee of safety, as clever thieves can break into locked luggage, and TSA agents may cut locks for inspection. To avoid this, you can use TSA-approved locks, which agents can open with a master key, or cheaper alternatives like zip ties or plastic wrapping. Ultimately, the best way to protect your valuables is to avoid packing them in checked luggage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can you carry liquids in checked baggage? | Yes, there is no limit on how much liquid you can carry. |
| How to carry liquids? | Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml must be in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids must be packed carefully to prevent leaks. |
| Liquids not allowed in checked baggage | Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof are not allowed. |
| Liquids allowed in checked baggage | Gravy is allowed. |
| Liquids allowed in carry-on baggage | Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes are allowed in a carry-on bag if they are in travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less per item. |
| Liquors allowed in checked baggage | You can carry up to 5 liters of alcohol with an alcohol volume between 24% and 70%. |
| Other items not allowed in checked baggage | Electronic cigarettes, opened containers, and bags with non-removable batteries are not allowed. |
| Other items allowed in checked baggage | Plastic cutlery, safety/disposable razors, and stun guns/shocking devices (in a manner that renders the device inoperable from accidental discharge) are allowed. |
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What You'll Learn
Benefits of locking checked luggage
Locking your checked luggage can provide several benefits that enhance your travel experience and offer peace of mind. Firstly, it acts as a deterrent against theft. While it may not completely prevent a determined thief, a locked bag is less likely to be targeted than an unsecured one. This added layer of security can reduce the risk of items being stolen during transit or handling. Locks also prevent unauthorised access to your luggage, ensuring privacy and confidentiality for your personal belongings.
Another benefit of locking checked luggage is the protection it offers against accidental openings. Locks keep zippers together and prevent latch locks from flipping open, ensuring your belongings don't fall out and get damaged or lost. This is especially important when travelling, as luggage is handled frequently and is at risk of accidental damage.
Using a lock that is Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approved is essential. TSA-approved locks provide a balance between security and accessibility for necessary inspections. TSA agents can open these locks using a universal master key, allowing them to inspect your bag without damaging it. Look for locks with the Travel Sentry or Safe Skies logo, indicating TSA approval. Many suitcases now also have integrated TSA-approved locking systems, offering both convenience and security.
It is worth noting that locking your checked luggage is not a guarantee that your belongings will be completely safe. Clever thieves can sometimes bypass locks, and there have been reports of TSA agents cutting locks during inspections, resulting in luggage damage. However, using a TSA-approved lock reduces the chances of this occurring and ensures you are following airline and security regulations, keeping your travels hassle-free.
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Drawbacks of locking checked luggage
While locking your checked luggage can offer some benefits, there are also several drawbacks to consider. Firstly, locks may not always guarantee the safety of your belongings. Luggage locks can be bypassed or broken by determined thieves, as they can cut through soft-sided bags or manipulate zippers to access the contents. Additionally, in the event that TSA personnel need to inspect your bag, they may cut off non-TSA-approved locks, causing potential damage to your luggage. This can result in denied claims and additional expenses for repairs or replacements.
Another drawback is the limited effectiveness of locks in preventing theft. While locks deter casual thieves, they may not stop experienced ones. TSA-approved locks use a universal system that can be opened by TSA agents, but this also means that information about the locks is more widely available, potentially making it easier for skilled thieves to access your luggage. Furthermore, locks do not prevent all forms of theft, as thieves can simply steal the entire bag.
It is also worth noting that locks may not always be necessary to secure your luggage. The best way to protect your valuables is to avoid packing them in checked luggage whenever possible. Always keep valuables, heirlooms, and favourite items in your carry-on or personal item. Additionally, using numbered seals or zip ties can help secure your luggage without the risk of lock-related damage.
Ultimately, while luggage locks can provide some peace of mind and prevent accidental openings, they are not a foolproof solution. The decision to lock checked luggage should be made after considering the potential drawbacks and implementing alternative security measures to safeguard your belongings.
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TSA-approved locks
It is recommended to use a TSA-approved lock when travelling with checked luggage. These locks are recognised and preferred by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and feature a universal "master" key that allows TSA agents to open and relock luggage without damaging the lock. TSA-approved locks are available in various styles and configurations, including combination locks and keyed locks. They are an effective way to prevent unauthorised access to your belongings and minimise the risk of theft or tampering.
Using a TSA-approved lock can provide peace of mind and convenience when travelling. It ensures the security of your belongings and also saves you from the inconvenience of having your lock damaged during a routine security inspection. In the event that a TSA agent needs to open your locked bag, they can do so using their master key without causing any damage.
You can purchase TSA-approved locks from various retailers, such as Master Lock, Walmart, and Brookstone. These locks are designed to meet the requirements of the TSA and provide an extra layer of protection for your luggage. They are typically available in packs of two or three and offer a resettable code or keyless combination feature.
While locking your checked luggage is an important step in securing your belongings, it is also crucial to follow other best practices. Avoid packing valuables, electronics, jewellery, or important documents in your checked luggage. Always keep these items with you in your carry-on luggage or personal bag. Additionally, consider using additional deterrents, such as seals or zip ties, to further discourage potential thieves.
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Alternatives to locks
While locks can act as a deterrent, they are not foolproof. The Washington Post once published a photo of the TSA's master keys, which could be used to 3D print copies, and there are other ways thieves can get around locks. So, what are some alternatives to locks for protecting your checked luggage?
Firstly, you could use a seal or zip tie. This method still provides an impediment to thieves and prevents accidental openings of luggage zippers or latches. It also acts as a visual deterrent, signalling to thieves that your bag may be more challenging to access, encouraging them to move on to an easier target.
Secondly, you could invest in a hard case for your luggage. While this may not prevent the most determined thieves, it can provide an extra layer of protection for your valuables. Using your own high-security locks in conjunction with a hard case can also be an option, but be aware that using your own locks may require you to wait at check-in for your bag to be scanned.
Thirdly, avoid packing valuables in your checked luggage altogether. This may seem obvious, but it is worth reiterating. Never pack cash, jewellery, electronics, or important documents in checked luggage. If you must bring valuables, carry them with you on the plane or use a money belt or hidden pouch to keep them on your person at all times.
Finally, consider purchasing TSA-approved locks that are designed to be opened by TSA officers during the screening process with special tools or master keys. These locks are easily identifiable by the red diamond-shaped Travel Sentry logo and are recognised in 44 countries and over 650 airports. While these locks do not guarantee that your luggage will never be tampered with, they can provide some peace of mind and convenience.
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What not to pack in checked luggage
It is recommended to use a lock on checked luggage as it acts as a theft deterrent and prevents accidental openings of luggage zippers or latches. You should use a TSA-approved lock, which can be easily identified by security agencies and can be opened by TSA using their special tools if necessary.
Now, coming to the items that you should never pack in checked luggage:
Flammable and Explosive Items
Flammable and explosive items are prohibited in checked luggage. This includes fireworks, firecrackers, blasting caps, compressed gases, and anything containing butane, chlorine, or lithium batteries. Lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries are only allowed in carry-on luggage. Other prohibited items include paint, nail polish remover, and liquid fuel.
Valuables and Electronics
It is best to avoid packing valuables and electronics in your checked luggage. This includes jewellery, cash, photographic equipment, and personal electronic devices. The airline is not liable for lost or stolen items, and baggage handlers may not always handle your luggage with care.
Important Documents
Important documents such as passports, IDs, and other personal identification should always be kept with you and never packed in checked luggage. These documents contain sensitive information that could be stolen and lead to identity theft.
Medications
Some over-the-counter and prescription medications that are commonly used in the US may be illegal in other countries. It is important to check the regulations of your destination country before packing any medications in your checked luggage.
Alcohol and Food
When travelling internationally, there are restrictions on packing alcohol and certain types of food. Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol (140 proof) are not allowed in checked luggage. Additionally, some foods may not be permitted to enter certain countries, so it is important to check the specific regulations of your destination.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can put a lock on your checked bags at the airport. It is recommended to use a TSA-approved lock, which can be easily identified by security agents and opened using a master key if necessary.
Using a TSA-approved lock ensures that airport security won't have to cut your lock if they need to inspect your bag. Non-TSA locks may be cut off, resulting in an additional cost for travellers.
Yes, you can use zip ties or plastic wrapping services offered by some airports. These options are less expensive and still provide some level of protection against theft and accidental openings.
No, locks are not a foolproof method to protect your belongings. Determined thieves can still cut or break into locked bags. However, locks can deter opportunistic theft and prevent accidental openings of your luggage.
It is recommended to lock your luggage when you need to leave your bags unattended, such as during hotel stays, bus travel, or when using public transportation from the airport to your destination.
