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When preparing for a trip, especially from Canada, one crucial question arises: Should you lock your luggage? While it may seem like a minor detail, securing your bags can significantly impact the safety of your belongings. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or a combination of both, how you protect your personal items in transit can affect everything from convenience to peace of mind.
As international travel resumes at full speed, stories of delayed baggage, missing items, and airport mishandling are becoming more common. This has led many travellers to rethink their approach to luggage security. Locking your suitcase is one of the simplest precautions you can take, yet it comes with its own pros and cons. In this guide, we explore the benefits and drawbacks of locking your luggage, the types of locks to consider, and practical tips to help you travel smarter and safer.
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Locking your luggage acts as a deterrent to opportunistic thieves, particularly in high-traffic areas like airports, train stations, and bus terminals. While no lock can guarantee complete security, it can discourage unauthorized access to your belongings.
During transit, luggage can be subjected to rough handling, increasing the risk of zippers coming undone. A lock ensures that your bag remains securely closed, preventing your items from spilling out.
Knowing that your luggage is locked provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about the safety of your possessions.
While locks can deter casual theft, determined individuals may still find ways to access your luggage. It’s essential to remain vigilant and not rely solely on locks for security.
In countries like the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) may need to inspect your luggage. If your lock isn’t TSA-approved, they might have to cut it off, potentially damaging your bag.
Not all countries recognize TSA-approved locks. While many international airports do, it’s advisable to check the security policies of your destination country to ensure compliance.
For travellers to and from Canada, using TSA-approved locks is recommended. These locks can be opened by security personnel using a master key, allowing for inspections without damaging your lock or luggage.
Some luggage comes with built-in TSA-approved locks, offering convenience and reducing the risk of losing a separate lock. If your bag doesn’t have one, consider purchasing a high-quality external lock that suits your travel needs.
When preparing for your travels, securing your luggage with a TSA-approved lock is a smart move. These locks can be opened by security agencies without damage, ensuring your belongings remain safe. Here’s where you can purchase them in Canada:
Canada Luggage Depot offers a wide selection of TSA-approved locks from trusted brands like Travelon, Samsonite and Austin House. Prices range from $9.95 to $24.50, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Walmart Canada provides affordable TSA-approved locks, including options like the Air Canada TSA Key Locks (Set of 2) priced at $9.97. Their online platform offers a variety of choices suitable for different travel needs.
Amazon.ca features an extensive range of TSA-approved locks, such as the Forge 3 Digit Cable Locks and Wingsflying 4-Digit Combination Locks. Prices vary, often starting around $10, with options for multi-packs and different styles.
Bentley, a well-known Canadian luggage retailer, offers TSA-approved locks under their in-house brand, Tracker. They provide both key and combination locks, with prices typically around $11.24.
Yes, locking your luggage is a simple yet effective measure to enhance the security of your belongings during travel. While it’s not foolproof, using a TSA-approved lock, staying informed about international security policies and taking additional precautions can significantly reduce the risk of theft or loss. As you plan your next adventure, consider these factors to ensure a safe and worry-free journey.
Yes. Canadian airports allow locked luggage, but if you’re traveling to countries like the U.S., it’s best to use a TSA-approved lock to avoid damage during inspections.
TSA-approved locks can be opened by U.S. Transportation Security Administration agents using a master key, so your bag can be inspected without cutting the lock.
If your luggage needs to be inspected in the U.S. and you’re using a non-TSA lock, it may be forcibly removed, which could damage your bag.
Not usually. Since carry-ons stay with you, locking is optional, but some travellers still use small locks for added peace of mind when stowing bags in overhead bins.
Yes. Many Canadian airports offer luggage wrapping, but not all. If your bag is unwrapped for inspection, rewrapping may not be available at your destination airport.
No. A lock helps deter casual theft, but it’s not foolproof. Avoid checking highly valuable items and use other precautions like carry-ons and travel insurance.
