2018: Are TSA locks still a thing?
Jun 5, 2018 | 10:39 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Sydney (for now), GVA (only in my memories)
Programs: QF Lifetime Silver (big whoop)
Posts: 9,336
2018: Are TSA locks still a thing?
(Mods, if there's an existing thread that's better suited, please move. I searched for recent discussion but didn't find anything.)
A relative is flying IAD -> Canada -> Australia next month and I've been trying to advise on security measures. But I haven't flown to/in the US is a decade, so I'm a bit out of touch regarding checked baggage.
Is there still a requirement to only use TSA locks on checked baggage? Are non-TSA locks still cut off or destroyed?
She may be using an old (1970s) hardsized suitcase with built-in combo locks in the latches of the case; from memory the only way to keep the latch closed was to lock it.
I know all the arguments about not using locks at all, only travelling with hand luggage, etc, so please, just advice on the current situation with locks. TIA.
A relative is flying IAD -> Canada -> Australia next month and I've been trying to advise on security measures. But I haven't flown to/in the US is a decade, so I'm a bit out of touch regarding checked baggage.
Is there still a requirement to only use TSA locks on checked baggage? Are non-TSA locks still cut off or destroyed?
She may be using an old (1970s) hardsized suitcase with built-in combo locks in the latches of the case; from memory the only way to keep the latch closed was to lock it.
I know all the arguments about not using locks at all, only travelling with hand luggage, etc, so please, just advice on the current situation with locks. TIA.
Jun 6, 2018 | 7:21 am
#2
Join Date: May 2011
Location: San Antonio, TX
Programs: AA EXP, DL Silver, Global Entry
Posts: 1,876
We still use them but with the full understanding that they provide virtually no security other than to hopefully keep a zipper closed. Luckily we’ve only had two or three go missing and in one case smashed to the point the hotel had to help my wife cut it off. We could use zip ties but seems we’ve collected quite few TSA locks over the years through them be included as a “free” item with new luggage buys. In fact we have TSA locks that have outlived the bag we got them with. I don’t remember the last time we got a TSA note in our luggage or had any indication our luggage had been opened and searched. Not saying TSA or others don’t get into luggage legally or illegally and it may be just our luck we’ve not had a problem.
Jun 6, 2018 | 7:33 pm
#3
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Seattle WA, USA
Programs: Hilton Diamond, Marriott LT Plat
Posts: 3,481
Three times in the last couple of months I've found the TSA note in my bag indicating that they opened it. The TSA lock I use wasn't damaged so at least some of the TSA agents are using their keys.
I decided that the small jar of peanut butter I packed was causing the concern so I took it out. I didn't get the TSA notes in the 2 trips after that. Hopefully that's that.
I decided that the small jar of peanut butter I packed was causing the concern so I took it out. I didn't get the TSA notes in the 2 trips after that. Hopefully that's that.
Jun 6, 2018 | 8:47 pm
#4
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2007
Location: Sydney (for now), GVA (only in my memories)
Programs: QF Lifetime Silver (big whoop)
Posts: 9,336
Thanks for all the replies. I think the suitcase is so old and with the built-in locks, there's nowhere to attach any external lock (or cable ties, etc). I can tell her not to pack liquids, etc (she can buy stuff here in Oz) or, obviously, valuables. Should be just clothes and maybe books, so I guess she'll just have to chance it.
Jun 7, 2018 | 3:46 am
#5
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Baltimore, MD USA
Programs: Southwest Rapid Rewards. Tha... that's about it.
Posts: 4,430
Thanks for all the replies. I think the suitcase is so old and with the built-in locks, there's nowhere to attach any external lock (or cable ties, etc). I can tell her not to pack liquids, etc (she can buy stuff here in Oz) or, obviously, valuables. Should be just clothes and maybe books, so I guess she'll just have to chance it.