Are you not supposed to lock Airline cheked-in baggage?

Question

Someone told me that we are not supposed to lock checked-in baggage while traveling through air plane (International flight).

Because security checking people might just break the lock to check your luggage.

How true this statement is?

Are security people not supposed to call us for security check (considering i put my phome number and name tag on each luggage)?

Answer 1

Yes, you can lock your bag. I recommend that you do. You must use either the plastic ties like these: http://europeforvisitors.com/europe/arti...

http://current.newsweek.com/budgettravel...

I use the second one(zip ties)  all the time.  If security wants to inspect your bag they can at any time. They should put a piece of paper inside your bag if they have opened it..stating that it was inspected.

The lock ties will help you know whetheror not your bag was opened.

You can purchase these items at Radio Shack Office Depot, etc.

No, security TSA does not have to notify you in advance before opening your bag.  If you have a numbered lock on your luggage, you must give the number to the clerk at the counter so they can give it to security, if it is needed.

Answer 2

Right, don't lock it.  It feels odd, I know, but just go with the flow.

Answer 3

if you want your luggage locked, you would need to get special locks for luggage that the security can open, you can usually find them at any store that sells luggage and in the luggage area, I know target has them.  They are specially maked as travel locks, and will say that airport security approved

Answer 4

That is correct.  They don't want you to lock checked-in luggage.   They don't want to have to break your locks but they will if they see something on x-ray that they need to check.  That's also why you should always keep valuables (camera equip., jewellry, etc. with you in your carry-on.

Answer 5

I always lock my bags, and as airlines all have master keys to  TSA baggage locks I've never had any problems nor any broken locks if they have for some reason to inspect my bags.

Never use any baggage locks then approved  TSA  locks and you'll never have a problem.

Answer 6

Samsonite has locks that the TSA can open-do not lock you bags with anything else- the can and will break your locks.  All luggage stores carry them.  They run about $15 bucks but are worth every penny.

Answer 7

I always lock it, i never found it open. Once in Cairo the security wanted to inspect a friend's bag and they called him to open it. I guess it depends on the country.