Is the TSA Lock acceptable in European Airports?
I understand if you travelling in or to the US, you can lock your luggage using the TSA Luggage Lock. (Immigration is still able to open your luggage using their own special keys)
How about Europe? Especially Heathrow + Charles de Gaulle?
If the TSA Lock is not acceptable in Europe, are there any other alternative precautions I could use instead?
(FYI, information about the TSA Lugguage Locks)
Best Answer
In my experience, airports in the EU are a bit less strict with locks. I have seen several items of baggage that have normal little padlocks on them, not these fancy "approved" locks.
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Do I need a TSA lock in Europe?
Luckily the TSA has not spread to Europe so such a lock is useless. They will not be able to open it. Baggage are fare less common in Europe; if there is something suspicious they will ask you to come open the bag in your presence yourself. Only need the TSA lock in the US.Can I use a TSA lock for international travel?
Yes, luggage locks are allowed whether you're flying internationally or just going for a domestic trip. After all, you want to keep your things secure and minimize the chances of something in your luggage getting stolen. One of the best ways to do that is to make sure your luggage is locked.Which countries require TSA locks?
Countries with TSA Lock Requirements Hence, several countries (USA, Canada, Japan, Israel, Finland, Austria and South Korea) require travellers to have their suitcases locked with a specific brand of locks that can be unlocked by aviation security.Can I use TSA lock in UK?
TSA locks are not for Customs use - they are for security checks when your luggage is checked in. 3. Re: tsa locks in london? Yes you should use them assuming you are flying FROM the USA to the UK as the TSA may wish to open them before they get put on the plane.More answers regarding is the TSA Lock acceptable in European Airports?
Answer 2
Wikipedia reports that the system is currently in use in Germany, the Netherlands and in the UK. So your TSA-locked luggage can possibly be opened with the master key/code at Heathrow.
But like Mark and Rory explained, I am not aware of any requirement to leave your luggage open (or to use a special system to make sure it can be opened for inspection) so a TSA lock would still be acceptable elsewhere, just like any other lock.
Answer 3
I was recently traveling from Florence Italy connecting in Charles De Gaulle to US destination. I had a TSA lock on my checked bag and when I picked up my bag at my destination the TSA lock was missing and the eye-ring on the zipper where the lock fits was completely ripped open-so it can never be locked again. I later found the bent unusable TSA lock in my suitcase with my clothes.
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