Originally Posted by BillForster

I don't think most of these thefts that take place at the checkpoint are done as your bag goes through the x-ray. So I don't think the lock is going to do much.

I think most of the checkpoint thefts take place during the bag search, while you are standing there. They put their back to you and the camera and tell you to "stand back."

I think it is a wise idea to say, "Hey, I'll stand back but can't I see what you are doing? I need to watch my belongings." If another officer is patting you down inform them to wait until one screening process is done before starting another. If they give you difficultly about doing any of this ask to bring over a supervisor. Simply explain you want to watch your bag.

Yes. I understand that a lot of these people will cause issues and be difficult with you over this. But it is still better than doing nothing.

I would be most concerned with the things in your pockets. If you place them in the tray they are more likely to disappear. If they are in you pockets during a patdown they will be handled by the TSA and possibly run through the x-ray by them. I would empty your pockets into you bag and hold cash in hand.