Travel Sentry Approved Lock?

[Keebler Elf]

I have a Samsonite combination lock for luggage that is "Travel Sentry Approved." Basically it has a little red plastic ring that activates if the lock is unlocked by airport security (who, according to the back of the product, have the code/key to unlock it). Basically it lets you lock your luggage in a way that still allows security to open your bag without breaking the lock, and also letting you know that they've done so.

So my question is, does this actually work? Has anyone heard of "Travel Sentry Approved"? It's Samsonite so I don't think it's total BS...

 

[ig-88]

Personally, I wouldn't trust TSA to give a crap about your luggage.

I think they're just going to break it however they like, so I don't see much of a point in locking luggage at all.

I would say travel light and travel cheap (i.e. only pack easily replaceable items). Way it is today.

 

[Hangman]

It's a legitimate product.

http://www.thereareplaces.com/infgdes/Luggage/appvdlks.htm

BUT...

Finally, anecdotal evidence indicates that having a TSA approved lock does not mean that your lock will not be broken or cut. Apparently, some TSA inspectors do not have copies of the master keys and will break the lock rather than delay the luggage inspection process. Many of the companies selling the locks will replace them if they are broken by TSA during an attempt to open your TSA approved lock. Make sure you understand the replacement policy before purchase.

 

[blopar]

I use them all the time.

All I know is that when I used to travel to the U.S. with non-TSA locks, they would be clipped off. Now, it never happens.

 

[cali]

All it means is that


But since then I've learned that the zipper on most bags can be easily defeated.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nwfYuUPcgHg

man that was way too easy...