To lock or not to lock your checked baggage

Did you know that screeners at the airport have the authority to brake the locks on your checked baggage?

Yes, if you decide to lock your checked baggage and TSA screeners cannot open your checked baggage through other means, then they simply will brake the locks. Unfortunately, TSA is not liable for damage caused to locked bags that must be opened for security purposes.

How to protect yourself and your baggage? TSA suggests that you use the locks manufactured by two suppliers authorized by the government. Those locks have locking mechanisms that are accepted and recognized by TSA. The two vendors authorized by TSA are:

Travel Sentry – http://www.travelsentry.org
Safe Skies – http://www.safeskieslocks.com

TSA screeners have tools for opening and re-locking baggage with those companies’ logos. So in order to avoid damage to the lock or checked bag, use those locks only OR simply leave your bag unlocked so that TSA could simply open and screen the baggage.

One of the online stores carrying the Travel Sentry locks can be found here (look under "Office & Travel"):

The Sharper Image

And by the way, do you know that the airlines’liability is limited to $2500 per ticketed passenger? Air carrier has no liability for such valuable equipment as: photographic equipment, computers, VCRs and any other electronic equipment including software or components, jewelry, cash, documents, furs, works of art or other similar valuable items. Other items that are not covered in the air carrier limit of liability include, but are not limited to: antiques, books, china, fragile items, liquids, medicines, perishable items, securities and negotiable papers or silverware.

So remember not to pack any of the items mentioned above in your checked baggage. Take those valuables with you - in your carry-on baggage.

If your next vacation trip is to Disneyland®, we suggest that you read our e-book “Let’s Go to Disneyland®!” and find out how to pack for that trip. One particular item is especially important. Find out here:

http://smartandrichadvisor.info/disneyland/disneylandguide.html

Stan Hill

Editor