As an FF who's flown for over 20 years with almost always the absolute maximum amount of checked baggage possible (and often more!), my advice is:

1) Don't pack serious valuables in checked luggage.

2) Tip the Skycap.

3) Don't sweat it.

I've occasionally put a tiny lock (or a twist-tie) on a piece to keep the zipper from easing open, but that's about it.

If all you're packing is clothes (and things that would now be confiscated at "security", like tweezers), I wouldn't bother with a lock.

It IS still apparently illegal for the airlines to open your bags without your presence: see
this recent thread.

When we check in, I do watch to make sure the bags are tagged right, and stay to make sure they're put on the belt (or the cart and watch them pushed inside) - and the Skycaps always get tipped $1-2 per bag at least.

We've had bags maimed (far and away the most common problem), bags late, and later (until we didn't need their contents, sigh), but all in all, the track record is pretty good, and the pilfering level is virtually nil.

And if you're worried about taking more "stealables" than you can carry on, then ship them, insured!




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The Delta Flyers' Guide