Those TSA Locks...
 

After having many locks cut off and placed oh so nicely in my suitcases, I've been considering those newer TSA locks that they are also suppose to have the key to. Anyone have any experience or opinion on them pretty please?

In the last 2 months, I've lost 2 of 4 TSA approved locks. Some of the TSA screeners are too lazy and/or sloppy to put the lock back on. If you do loose approved locks, you can submit a claim to the TSA.

I've had a set since day one. I use them all the time. I've had them opened and relocked numerous times.. never an issue.

Same experience for me!

I use mine all the time and have never had an issue. At first a few airline employees questioned them but now it seems I don't have that problem except at a few podunk airports where they are unusually hyper about security.

This is my experience as well.

My last trip through Philadelphia they even managed to open one of those Samsonite brass 4-wheel combination lock. There must be a master code, which is a little unsettling. Found the case locked back up and a nice note from the TSA inside.

Does anyone fly with their suitcases unlocked?
(I do all the time)

I carry wire twist ties in case I have to check a bag. Those are all I use to close my bags, mainly to keep them from bursting open at the zipper :)

I've had the TSA cut off or not replace an approved lock, so they aren't always competent with them.

I also do occasionally fly with unlocked cases - it depends where I'm flying & the contents. It is a lot easier just to carry everything on if you don't have too much stuff.

So far I'm 2 for 2 losing approved locks to the worthless b@st@rds at the TSA. If they are going to take it off, can't they put it back on after they steal one of my shirts/ ties/ magazines? I thought that was the whole point.
And I always lock my bags. I figure I put things in there for a reason and don't want anyone taking them.

I was given TSA locks last Christmas. On my return, the lock and zipper tabs were gone. I filed a complaint with the TSA and got reimbursed. The next trip, the luggage inspection was done in front of me; the guy reached into the drawer for their keys and said "No keys here, would you open it?". Since then I've decided not to count on these locks being of any use.

Reaching into a drawer is a big red alarm to me. Each screener should sign for and be accountable for his/her own numbered key. If the key goes missing from the drawer, and that one evidently did, who's accountable for it?

Hah. Accountability? For this agency?? You've *got* to be kidding.

Reason enough not to go along with the "approved lock" charade.

Two trips with them so far. The first trip two disappeared, the bags do not appear to have been opened. (There was a lot of strapping on them also and the ends of the straps were done up the way I do it. I seriously doubt TSA would have done it the same.) It took nearly 6 months before I had a check in had but I did get one.