Originally Posted by
STBCypriot
TSA-"approved" locks can be used on any luggage you want to put them on. In fact, you can use any kind of lock you want on any kind of luggage. However, non-TSA-approved locks on checked luggage may be subject to forcible removal if the TSA deems it necessary to access your checked luggage. And there is no guarantee that the TSA-approved locks on your checked luggage will be replaced on your luggage or even relocked if replaced on your checked luggage if the TSA deems it necessary to access your checked luggage. If you use a lock on your carry-on luggage you need to be able to open the lock should the TSA request you to do so, but you do not have to use a TSA-approved lock on carry-on luggage.
There is no guarantee that TSA luggage screeners will even close your checked luggage if they decide to inspect it. I have picked up my checked luggage to find that it was not fully closed, and TSA didn't even leave a note inside saying that it had been inspected. I knew it had been opened because when I checked it in, the suitcase was zipped all the way around and the secondary strap was buckled. When I pulled the bag off of the carousel, the strap was un-fastened and the zipper was partially open. Nothing was missing, thank goodness!