Originally Posted by NewbieRunner

Glad to hear you've found your shopping bag! I know exactly how you feel. I was staying at a hotel in DC earlier this year and thought an envelope containing US$ cash went missing from the safe. I reported it to hotel security, who called the police, details of cleaning staff and key cards which had accessed the door were examined, etc. etc. I had to cancel a dinner appointment with friends and was sitting in a chair while a police officer checked every corner of the room, when I looked down at the side of where I was sitting and the envelope was there between the cushion and the arm of the chair! I was so embarrassed!

BTW, I haven't seen any notice that checked baggage should be left unlocked at any US airports in the last couple of years. Immediately after the new rule started I had a few “TSA opened your bag” cards in my suitcase. Once I asked when re-checking my suitcase whether it should be unlocked and the guy told me “it's up to you” meaning that if they decide to open the case they might break the lock. Although I have TSA compliant locks some of the suitcases are not suitable for them and since I only go to the US a couple of times a year I'd forgotten about this rule until I read the OP's post.