Travel is finally possible after two long years of in and out of lockdown. This has led many to choose to finally take their vacations abroad. However, whether it’s a tropical getaway or a European tour, travel logistics stay the same. An often overlooked but useful aspect of travel is luggage locks.
What are Luggage Locks?
They are padlocks with either a combination or a key that secures luggage bag closures. This prevents potential thieves from getting into your luggage and taking your items.
While it grants a great advantage to secure your goods while in transit or in your room (whether it be a hotel, motel, B&B, or hostel), it is often advisable not to travel with irreplaceable valuables.
They Have Many Uses
Luggage locks are handy and prevent more than theft. They can also secure your luggage to prevent your items from spilling during the flight and other forms of transit. This is especially important when busy air-lines won’t look for items you might have missed after cleaning up the spill.
Another use for luggage locks is keeping children out of your luggage. This is especially useful if you’ve packed medication or anything else you’re worried about your little ones getting into.
Luggage Locks and the TSA
While they are useful, it is surprising to see that they aren’t ubiquitous. Though they are readily available, there are reasons many forgo them, most of which are simply myths.
The most prominent myth that makes travelers hesitant to use them is that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is more likely to inspect luggage with locks. This, however, is not true. The TSA’s decision to check baggage has nothing to do with luggage locks or a lack thereof.
However, they must be approved by the TSA. If a lock is not approved by the TSA, they are more likely to inspect it and might even break the lock to do so.
You can easily find TSA-approved locks by looking for the Travel Sentry logo.
It’s also best if you only lock your carry-on luggage rather than those that will be going to baggage.
Where are They Most Useful?
Keep your stuff locked in your room to ensure your goods are secure when you leave to enjoy your vacation or sleep at night. This prevents spills in the room due to breezes or falling. Other advantages of using locks in your room include child and pet safety, as well as thief prevention. This is especially true if you’re staying in a hostel.
Enjoy Security During Your Vacation
Luggage locks are indispensable when used correctly in with the approved array of locks from both countries you’re traveling from and to. Ensure that you follow these rules. For Phoenix-area travelers, King Locksmith is happy to answer questions, fix broken locks and customize them within TSA limits.
