rinnylynn, welcome to Flyertalk!
Originally Posted by
rinnylynn
...until one flight where my bag came down with the zip tie intact BUT a gash that went all around three edges of the top that was sealed with duct tape and the card inside that my luggage had been "opened" for inspection.
Do you know at which airport this pointless destruction of your property was done? How long ago?
Originally Posted by
rinnylynn
When I complained about the destruction I was told that I should not have "locked" it and I would not be reimbursed. The knife that destroyed my 3 trip old suitcase could have easily popped the zip tie, guess that agent was having a bad day.
Was this response from TSA, or from the airline?
There is no excuse for such pointless destruction of property; sorry you had to deal with this.
To OP: I too use zip-ties in bright colors as mentioned by other posters, as well as TSA locks with indicators, depending on which luggage a trip requires. Either way, I know as soon as I my bag comes off the carousel whether it has been invaded, and can document that any losses occurred while it was in the airline's/TSA's control. (When I have to travel heavy, substantial effort and expense is at stake; expat relatives have requested U.S. goods or replacement parts, or I may need activity-related clothing and equipment for holidays with them.) Have had TSA 1) cut zip-ties and replace them with black/white ties, 2) cut but not replace them, and 3) cut then leave zippers open. They also cut, or fail to replace, TSA locks quite often.
A determined thief can get into
any luggage; my philosophy is to make mine less inviting. I don't use luxury brands either; I assume thieves expect an $800 Vuitton far more likely to contain comparably valuable booty than a $100/set Costco wheelie.
Originally Posted by
Firebug4
If the suitcase is the kind that uses just a plastic zipper like most rollers it really doesn't matter if it is locked or zip tied. All that is needed to open it is a simple ballpoint pen.
The easiest way, so long as you remember to leave enough space for the pen, and no solicitious TA "helpfully" tightens it as you check in!
(Now I usually trim the ends to a stub.)
(edit) Doh, you meant that the zipper itself is insecure, sorry. This too is a vulnerability. Again, it's impossible to deter
all theft, but deterring
casual theft takes little effort, and is worthwhile when it works.