These days I normally use twisties on my luggage for obvious reasons. However, during a recent trip (I took 3 in a row, so I am not sure which), my Swiss army knife and nail scissors, kept together with some a hair curler and only packed in checked luggage, disappeared without one of those federal forms inserted. Since we are a movie company, most of our technical bags are routinely opened and we get these forms. In fact, when the big latches on one aluminium case did not open easily, the baggage people actually called the gate to speak to us to figure out how to open them.

I would like to use those "approved" locks on a trip overseas, just to have a bit more accountability if there are items missing. (Maybe I am naive.) I know US baggage checkers have the lock opener, what about those overseas? How often are they cut off? (Brookstone replaces them if they are.) I also like the idea of using them in hotel rooms to make it a bit harder to peer into, although I could take out an old fashioned lock for that purpose.

Any wisdom?

I've used them domestically & internationally, though probably only 5 or 6 trips. TSA cut off/didn't replace one once, but other than that, no problems.

I'm partial to zipties (cable ties). Just go for the largest width ones that will fit through the lock holes in your luggage. If you're especially paranoid, put a dab of epoxy under the latch that holds the tie. Just remember to leave a way to open it in an unlocked compartment fingernail clippers work well.

So will they just cut off locks on all baggage or just a sample of the ones they check?

Do they do it on checked baggage or just carry-on baggage?

All checked bags are screened, usually by running then through a sophisticated scanner (more comprehensive than the x-ray scan that your carry-on bag receives). Sometimes the screening shows something that the inspector wants to examine more closely, and then the bag is opened for hand inspection (they're supposed to include a note in the bag when this happens). If your bag is locked the lock will need to be removed. A 'TSA' lock can be removed with a special key but only a supervisor has access to the key, so sometimes a lock just gets cut off anyway.

The rules are different overseas.

Outside of the USA, baggage screeners are civilized. They're are not authorized to break/open locks without the authorization of the passenger. Sometimes locks may be missing because of rough handling or baggage thieves looking for treasures.

- Pat

??? I guess the ignorant twit who broke my suitcase at LHR last month to lay claim to a Nail Grooming Kit must have cheated on his "civilized" exam?