Luggage Locks

There are so many questions from airplane travelers on whether they can lock their bags. Yes, it's okay to lock your bags again BUT only with the TSA approved lock. This is a Travel Sentry approved lock from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA.) This is the new standard for locking checked baggage when flying. Each lock will have a special TSA code. This code allows the TSA screening location to use this code and secure a tool to open the lock and relock after inspection when inspection is necessary. Some of these TSA approved combination locks have an indicator button on the lock. This simply means that the lock allows you to know if the TSA has searched your bag, because a red ring will appear indicating your lock has been opened and your bag may have been inspected. TSA screeners and airline check-in staff at airports are trained to recognize the Travel Sentry logo. They understand that baggage with locks displaying this mark is permitted to remain locked. TSA screeners have access to the special codes that allow them to open those locks in the event that your baggage must be opened for inspection. With the TSA lock, the lock can be easily opened by TSA screeners only without having to break the lock. This also means that TSA can screen checked baggage faster knowing these locks can be opened if deemed necessary. The easiest of the TSA locks are the combination locks because you will not have to worry about carrying a key. Besides setting the lock for a number combination that is chosen by you and therefore easy to remember, there is also a "word" lock. Sometimes we have so many number combinations that we need to remember, using a word is more convenient. This Word Lock lets you set the lock for a "word" instead of numbers. There are 10,000 word combinations to choose from on the word lock. And before you think it, you cannot use any bad words. The word lock simply doesn't have that option! Think instead of words like "pack" or "trip” or "soon." Besides letting you lock your bags to keep out casual thieves, these locks also keep zippers closed on over-stuffed luggage. Now, doesn't that sound familiar? If you travel a lot, you've probably seen loose clothing circling around the airport carousel because a case has opened slightly during baggage handling. You'll enjoy locking your luggage again, just be sure to look for the TSA symbol on the lock that says "Travel Sentry Approved." When you purchase new luggage, be aware that not every brand gives you the required TSA lock. Prolite luggage, Tumi luggage, and
Briggs & Riley luggage to name a few will all have the correct TSA lock automatically included with your bag. Remember to remove any incorrect locks even if you also haven't "locked" it but it is hanging from your bag when flying. Baggage personnel may cut the incorrect lock off automatically and inadvertently damage your zipper. Of course, you can still use the old style locks that are not TSA approved when going on cruises, or when traveling by train by bus.