Hadn't really worried about it but you guys are probably right, I think I'll just throw a quick tsa combo lock on the carry on. I usually store right above me and keep valuables in my pocket.

The only thing with putting your bag opposite you is that I can imagine fights breaking out if the person right behind you is actually going to sit under where you just put your bag and are puzzled why you didn't put the bag above your own seat.

Great idea on the lock.. Helps deters theft a bit.. but gives a bit more peace of mind.

I use cable ties instead of locks. I also look for a spot across the aisle a row ahead of where I intend to sit. It is easier to see and retrieve.

They should add an indicator that shows whether a TSA key has been used to open it.

Why bother with a TSA lock? It's going to be with you, they don't need to be able to open it.

We use our old pre-TSA locks.

I use a PacSafe MetroSafe (http://www.pacsafe.com/www/index.php...=detail&id=138) for my carry-on. It has its own built in security cable and lock that allows you lock its zippers and itself to a fixed object. The bag itself has a mesh so it also prevents someone from slicing it. (Less of an issue on a plane, but great for trains or walking around.)

On the plane, I just lock the zippers above, but if I wanted, I could lock it to underneath seat in front of me. This bag is great for international travel.

Honestly, I disagree about the lock. Very few people lock their carryons while in flight, so a lock is a red flag that there is something valuable in your bag. If you leave your bag unlocked and act like it's worthless, no one will bother it. If people see you compulsively locking it each time you open it, they will conclude that you have valuable possessions and if there are any thieves on board they will target your bag first.

Here is an article you may want to look at.

Shak

http://www.corporatetravelsafety.com...on-board-theft

My Pelican case screams "valuable," but I use it to provide protection for the fragile electronics inside. The lock just adds another layer of security. There are those who use expensive luggage because of the durability, looks and the good warranties. It, too, may attract attention and the locks provide extra protection.

We're in the same situation as Inkundernails. Photo equipment really can't go into "cheap" bags. 1 roller each (not locked unless gate checked because it's impossible to open and grab) and a small backpack with 3-4 bodies, computer cords, and wallet, watch, money clip locked before ID check. We fly from BNA also and get a bag check about 70% of the time. Locking the bag means they must wait for me to collect everything from the belt before swabbing, etc.

da__ed if you do and da__ed if you don't add a lock to your valuables..

Thieves will find a way to break through the locks if they really wanted to..

In addition to WillCAD's comment above, apply the same thing to your person - no expensive watches, jewelry, etc. The less you look like a target, the less your bag looks like a target.

I favor the little cloth neck pouch for the REALLY critical things - passport, credit cards, cash and prescription meds. In it goes enough to get me home if all else is lost. I don't sleep all that well on planes, but this makes one less thing keeping me awake.

Romelle

I think locks on carry-ons are actually a lot more useful than locks on checked bags, because on a plane, people don't have knives or other sharp tools with which to pry, jimmy, or cut open the lock or zipper. So long as you have a reasonably strong zipper that couldn't be popped with bare hands, the lock prevents casual rifling in your bag while it's in the overhead. When it's out of the overhead, it's presumably in your direct control.

In that context, you're absolutely correct..

I guess if someone wants to go through the carry ons discreetly.. cutting a lock wouldn't be discreet.:eek::)

Its the carry off and dissapearance that won't work too well.

That is the reason I have tried to find a good separation alarm. Most of them are for children, but they might work.