TSA locks

[Marianne]

I've never used the TSA locks and was wondering what the general consensus is on them. Do most of you use them? Good, bad, indifferent?

[byado18]

I have used them on several trips - national and international -- and except for one time when it disappeared have had good luck.

Need to reset the ticker for the trip in December 2008!

[nothintolose]

We used them last summer to STJ. Both our bags were checked (had the note in them). My lock was put back on my bag. SO's wasn't. Bought new ones to use for future trips.

I like thinking no one but TSA can get in my bags...hopefully and not that I trust TSA

[snorkeler525]

We use them but also just use the plastic cable ties which they can just cut on other zips on our luggage. Both keep out the unwanted rummages through your luggage. We feel more comfortable with the cable ties when we travel internationally.

[RickG]

Ya, we use one use locks that we bought from Rick Steves site. Like cable ties, but can be pulled off manually with a small amount of work. Its just an indication that someone has been in the bag. I'm more worried about someone putting something in the bag rather than taking something out.

Cheers, RickG

[FlaGeorge]

We use them all the time. Never had one go missing - so far.

[JT]

Hey, FlaGeorge, where you been? How's Steph?

[California Girl]

We used them with no problem going to the VI (and none were missing when we got home), but when I went to Grand Cayman (international) I either had to take the lock off my bag or go to the TSA table and wait while they went thru it.

I suspect the person who told me I had to take the lock off didn't realize it was a TSA lock, but the line was long, I was tired and it was just easier to take the lock off than to argue about it or separate from my group and go somewhere else to have my bag checked.

[Teresa_Rae]

I've always wondered if the TSA was more likely to go through your bags if you have locks.

[FlaGeorge]

Hey, FlaGeorge, where you been? How's Steph?

Hi JT - I'm still around. Just sent you a PM.

[CariBert]

Half of ur group used them last time we went to St. John. Got to the airport for thr return trip and got help up because none of the TSA folks could unlock the TSA approved luggage locks. Go figure.

The rest of us (spouse and I) just use safety pins. They work just as well, and it keeps the honest folks honest.....but if a bad guy wants in your luggage, nothing's gonna keep him out......

-Bert