Luggage Ties/TSA Locks Trip to USA

[RB]

Making our first trip to USA for many years so I am out of touch with current security.
In May we will fly Y+ Virgin Aust Syd-Lax with overnight then onwards to Alaska. Will have later flights ANC-ORD, ORD-JFK, BOS-SAN then LAX-SYD.
I have tried searching prior suggestions & wonder how regular US visitors approach baggage security- do we use TSA locks or go for ties? Any strong suggestons on brands of ties & where to buy?
I haven't read anything lately re passengers not being allowed out of their seats for the last hour of flights into USA.

 

[moa999]

I typically just use luggage ties bought in bulk from a local $2 store. Think last set was about 60 of various sizes for $2.

I take the view that no-one will have a tie exactly the same and in my view a lock/ tie etc is all about deterrence - you will never have 100% security - it is just to make someone elses bag look slightly more attractive than yours.

Ties go on every outside openable zip apart from one. In there sits a small pair of nail scissors.

 

[Harry G]

have done several trips..ties can be easily cut - combination TSA locks
TSA Luggage Locks, TSA Locks, Luggage & Travel Supplies Free Shipping
I purchased these several years ago - they are now available in Australia - about $ 20 for the same brand.
they have a little indicator window which is green then turns red if someone has tampered with it...
had my first red indicator from coughet to bangkok last year........ notifed security who stood with me whilst I opened my bag...... all ok.....appeared someone had tried to force the lock

they are good locks and reasonably solid also

 

[Harry G]

wont post web link.........
look up tamperseal in the US

 

[notzac]

wont post web link.........
look up tamperseal in the US

This is what Harry G seems to be referring to..

 

[harvyk]

I use the TSA locks. Likewise the ones I have there is a little green indicator which goes red if the lock has been opened by the TSA.

Some people have complained that the TSA sometimes don't bother with the keys at all and simply cut the locks off anyway.

Realistically all your doing is making your bag a little harder to get into than the unlocked bag sitting next to it, and to stop it opening by accident.

 

[kiwi2768]

I bought some plastic luggage ties called LuggageLock. I purchased them online, but they are available at some Australia Post outlets. I think it cost me about $18 for two packets of 10, including postage. Each plastic tie has a unique number, with a piece that is removed by you and retained somewhere safe before you check your luggage in. You do not need anything to cut the tie off with, but if the tie is missing or has been tampered with when you collect your bag bring it to the attention of the security staff or the people doing the bag inspections.

 

[pootle]

i use luggage locks or tamper tells which are really cheap & come in bright colours - they are $7 for 10

same thing as above have a security number & you check on arrival - easy to open once you are he other end with no need for scissors

 

[james4321]

Making our first trip to USA for many years so I am out of touch with current security.

Another option now available (in Melbourne and Brisbane) is luggage wrapping, where your luggage is completely sealed in stretch wrap plastic. I always use it, its very effective and easy to remove at your destination - they include a little slicer to get it off with. No problems using it in USA, you can get it done there also for the return journey.

 

[Hvr]

Of course the most important thing to remember is that if you cannot afford to lose something then don't pack it in your checked luggage.

This includes essential medications and expensive electronic gear.

And have travel insurance that will provide emergency clothing.

 

[Maca44]

Go to your local hardware store and buy some cable ties, and then put nailclippers in your carry on. You can take additional cable ties with you to cover your other flights. Locks are only to stop the honest people, and if someone really wants to get into your bag, they will. At least the cable ties will notify you that someone has tampered with your luggage.

 

[RB]

Thanks for the replies. We have gone the way of the luggage ties & cable ties.
Maybe a stupid question but can I put these on prior to going to Syd airport or is there a special luggage check of checked bags happening for US flights prior to check-in?

 

[FlyboyAl]

There is no special check for bags going into the hold, but your hand luggage will/may be subject to individual search.
The individual search of cabin bags seems to depend on which way the wind is blowing, if there is a full moon or total eclipse, or if the flight will get away on time if they keep searching

 

[Maca44]

Thanks for the replies. We have gone the way of the luggage ties & cable ties.
Maybe a stupid question but can I put these on prior to going to Syd airport or is there a special luggage check of checked bags happening for US flights prior to check-in?

Just put them on prior to your flight from Canberra. It would be under very exceptional circumstances that they carried out a hand search of checked luggage, and just keep the bag of remaining cable ties in a pocket in your carry on.