TSA Luggage Straps

A strap with a regular lock may be cut at security on a flight to the US, and the suitcase then travels on with no strap at all. A TSA lock opens with the security staff's key and locks again, so the strap stays whole and keeps protecting your suitcase until it is back with you. On other flights it does the same job: it holds the suitcase closed and makes it easy to spot.

Check four things. A TSA lock, not a regular one. An adjustable length that goes around your suitcase: Specter™ Elite adjusts up to about 180 cm (71 in), so it fits carry-on and large checked suitcases. A wide, strong strap: 5 cm (2 in) stays flat and keeps the suitcase tight. And a bold print, because most suitcases on the carousel are black and look alike.

The factory code is 000. Slide the reset switch, turn the dials to the three numbers you chose and slide it back, and your code is set. Wrap the strap around the suitcase, adjust it until it is tight, close the buckle and lock it. Keep a note of the code somewhere safe, not on the suitcase.

A TSA lock on the suitcase zipper keeps it from being opened easily, and the strap adds a second layer: it holds the suitcase closed even if the zipper gives way under load, and it makes the suitcase easy to spot. Soft suitcases and older suitcases benefit most from a strap.