When you’re traveling, odds are you’ll have to leave your luggage behind at some point. All along the way, you’re trusting those handling your bags with your personal items. Travelers are often care-free because after all…they’re on vacation! But wouldn’t you be even more carefree if you knew your valuables were safe?
To prevent your baggage from being opened without your consent, we recommend you use a luggage lock. Some suitcases already have a lock built into the luggage, but if not you can find a TSA-approved (i.e. one that airport security agents can easily open) lock at luggage stores or online.
If you’re on the fence of whether to lock up or not, we’re here to help! From air travel to public transportation and to hotels, there are many safety factors to be aware of. Read on to learn more!
Checking Your Bag
People have different reasons for using a luggage lock. Some use a lock to prevent their luggage from opening at an embarrassing moment, while others use a lock to prevent theft. But just because you’re using a luggage lock doesn’t mean your bag can’t be opened. All locks should be TSA-approved, otherwise agents are permitted to break off any luggage lock if they need to physically inspect a bag.
The decision is ultimately up to you. The TSA strongly recommends that you carry your valuables–such as jewelry, money, identification, and electronics–in a carry-on bag. If you’re not packing any valuable items in your checked bag, you don’t necessarily need a lock. All bags will go through security screening, and you’ll know if your bag has been physically opened if you find a notice inside your bag or if your non-TSA-approved lock is missing.
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Storing Luggage on Public Transportation
When traveling abroad, you may find yourself taking public transportation, depending on where you’re headed. If you plan to hop on a bus or train, odds are you’ll have to store your baggage in an overhead bin or somewhere away from your seat. To prevent your belongings from being stolen or misplaced, we suggest for you to lock your luggage. It’s important to protect your bags when traveling and to always keep an eye on them, especially if there is no lock on your luggage.
Staying in a Shared Room
Many travelers choose to stay in a shared room such as a hostel or a rented room in someone’s home. This option is typically more affordable compared to a private room in a hotel. Reserving a shared room isn’t always a guaranteed safe stay, as you’re staying in a room with strangers. Keeping your eye on your belongings at all times surely is not possible. If you’re planning to bunk up in a shared room, protect your luggage with a lock, especially if you’re carrying valuable belongings.
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Hotel Stay: Luxurious or Standard
From giving your baggage to the bellhop to leaving your room for housekeeping to clean, your bags won’t always be with you in plain sight. Most travelers don’t think they need a lock on their luggage when staying at a luxurious resort. To be cautious, it’s better to be safe than sorry. A hotel room is never fully secure–even if there’s a safe to lock your valuables. It is possible that the safe has a master key that hotel employees can gain access to. But no one else has access to the key to your luggage.
Convinced, yet?
FAQs:
Q: Are TSA-approved locks required for all luggage?
A: No, they are not required, but they are recommended for checked bags. TSA-approved locks allow airport security to inspect your luggage without damaging the lock.
Q: Can I use a luggage lock on carry-on bags?
A: Yes, you can lock your carry-on bag. However, be prepared to unlock it if TSA agents request an inspection at security checkpoints.
Q: What should I do if my TSA-approved lock goes missing?
A: If your lock is missing, check inside your bag for a TSA inspection notice. If you suspect theft, report it to airline staff or security immediately.
Q: Are combination locks or key locks better for travel?
A: Combination locks are generally preferred since they eliminate the risk of losing a key. However, key locks may be more secure in certain situations.
Q: Will locking my luggage completely prevent theft?
A: No lock is 100% theft-proof, but using a lock can deter opportunistic theft, especially in public places or shared accommodations.
Q: Can I lock my suitcase if I’m traveling by train or bus?
A: Yes, it’s a good idea to lock your luggage when using public transportation, especially when storing it in overhead bins or baggage compartments.
Q: Should I still use a hotel safe if I lock my luggage?
A: Yes, using both a locked suitcase and a hotel safe provides extra security for your valuables, especially if you’re staying in a shared or high-traffic accommodation.
Do you lock your bags when traveling? Tell us what you think in the comments below!
