{"id":1273,"date":"2016-02-08T13:28:57","date_gmt":"2016-02-08T18:28:57","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.soslocksmith.com\/blog\/?p=1273"},"modified":"2016-05-17T16:25:43","modified_gmt":"2016-05-17T21:25:43","slug":"protect-luggage-theft-airports","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.soslocksmith.com\/blog\/protect-luggage-theft-airports\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Protect your Luggage from Theft in Airports"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"luggage\"<\/a><\/p>\n

In the world we live in, protecting one\u2019s own property becomes something to be prepared for. Many people consider suitcases to be somewhat \u201cunprotectable\u201d over international flights – simply due to the long amount of time these bags are being handled by strangers, or placed out of site. Regardless of the measures taken by airports and the FAA to protect flyers from theft, an amount of thefts of property always occur at airports. So you\u2019re left asking yourself, how can I protect my luggage from people that would want to steal from it?<\/p>\n

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Strong Suitcases<\/h2>\n

There\u2019s multiple factors to consider in securing your luggage before flying. Before we discuss locks, let’s talk about the physical structure of the luggage itself. If your suitcase has a fabric body with a zipper, a lock isn\u2019t going to exactly do you well. The bag can easily be cut open (by people who wouldn\u2019t care if you discover the theft) but can also be opened with a common airport theft trick. This trick involves the use of a ballpoint pen to puncture the zipper opening, run along it\u2019s length, opening the bag with no signs of entry. In fact, TSA agents use this technique to inspect suitcases.<\/p>\n

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It\u2019s worth putting in the investment for a hard sided durable suitcase. These suitcases differ from the typical ones because they aren\u2019t made of easily severed fabric, but a hard, almost impenetrable siding. Additionally, there will be a hasp system which you can place locks on. These cases can\u2019t be opened with pens like typical suitcases. When looking for hardsided suitcases, it\u2019s good to test them in person so you know what you\u2019re getting. Test if the material can\u2019t be broken, and that the lid is sealed tight when shut. If there\u2019s any gap in the seal, it\u2019s not the ideal case.<\/p>\n

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Finding a Durable Lock<\/h2>\n

Buying a durable lock is absolutely something you should do. First of all, you need to choose a lock that properly fits the case – so that there\u2019s no gap when it\u2019s fully closed. If you\u2019re shackling the zipper tight, the lock\u2019s shackle should be thin enough to fit inside – however, the thinner the shackle, the easier it is to cut or break off.<\/p>\n

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I certainly don\u2019t advise getting one of the pre-made TSA approved locks. It\u2019s shackles are incredibly flimsy and can be cut with a pair of ordinary household tools. They can be picked easily – not to mention the fact that the schematics of the inner lock has been publically available on the internet for years – so somebody could make a skeleton key that works for it.<\/p>\n

Instead, I recommend getting a high security lock, like a padlock. Don\u2019t skimp on price – invest in a well made, solid lock that can resist many different kinds of entry attempts. I also recommend getting a lock with internal ball bearings that prevent thieves from being able to shim it.<\/p>\n

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Levelled Security<\/h2>\n

Try getting a lock with as many security features – and pins – as possible. 5 is the average, and serrated pins work the best. Using a lock with a shroud over the shackles make it much harder for thieves to cut through it. On the average, competent high-security locks<\/a> can be found for around 25 dollars. Brands like Best, Mul-T-Lock<\/a>, and Medeco are always a good bet. It also helps to combine multiple locks that aren\u2019t from the same company – this would protect your property from criminals with single break-in methods.<\/p>\n

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As additional security tactics, never put irreplaceable valuable items inside your checked luggage – instead, bring it with you in carry on. Additionally, you might want to use saran wrap, zip-ties, or tape to show you if your suitcase has been opened. It\u2019s definitely an effective deterrent to criminals who don\u2019t want to waste time getting through a zip tie and get caught. As many levels of security as possible is highly advised – \u00a0any additional, unfamiliar level with effectively deter criminals. The best solutions are the one\u2019s that you cater to your specific situational needs. Find whatever weak links figuratively or literally exist in your luggage, and reenforce and strengthen them. By utilizing layered security, you can protect your luggage in airports, or really any transportation environment.<\/p>\n

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