Disable TSA lock allowed?

I will be traveling from the Netherlands to Poland. I have a seperate TSA lock, but it is well known that those have a vulnerability because one can get easily hold of the TSA master key. I want to disable the TSA keyhole by, for instance, glueing it. I don't expect the TSA lock will be used, so can I get in trouble for this?

aircraft tsa

Best Answer

Do not glue it. Use an other lock. [This is just for infra-european flights]

For all inspections, you are required to be present (also for security: if it contains a bomb, you will get it). [But this is also a disadvantage, if they fail to find you, e.g. in an airport with non-speaker notification), you will be denied to board, if the baggage cannot be checked and loaded on time.

For the few cases they will not require you, they will have no problem to open your case (and possibly it is the least of your problems) (braking the lock, the luggage).

But do not carry valuable in your baggage. A good lock will tell staff that you have valuable stuff in it.

Personally I never used a lock, and I never got anything stolen (very many countries and continents, some not really safe, or well know to be used to corruption, also on customs).

Pictures about "Disable TSA lock allowed?"

Disable TSA lock allowed? - Black Handled Key on Key Hole

Disable TSA lock allowed? - Closed Door and Lighted Light Sconce

Disable TSA lock allowed? - Grayscale Photography of Chain

How do you bypass a TSA lock?

Just reset the combination:

Set the dial to 000.

Turn the shackle at a 90 degree angle from the lock position.

Push the shackle down (outside of the lock).

Set the desired code.

Pull the shackle up.

Turn it back to the lock position.

Does a lock have to be TSA approved?

Do I have to use a TSA lock? It is not mandatory or a legal requirement to use a TSA-approved lock, but it is recommended. If you do not use a TSA lock and your luggage is searched, the TSA will either have to break your lock or cut your luggage to gain access.

Does TSA allow locked luggage?

Luggage locks are permitted by TSA, especially if they're TSA approved (meaning security agents can open any of these locks with a master key). If you're using a lock that isn't approved by TSA, that won't affect your bags from being opened for a close inspection.

How to set a 3-dial luggage lock

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Images: Alexey Demidov, PhotoMIX Company, Pixabay, Pixabay