When going to the airport and checking in, is my question.

When picking up my ticket, and I give my luggage to the customer service person. Do I leave my luggage unlocked then, or do I go through security first, and then pick up my ticket?

When going to the airport and checking in, is my question.

When picking up my ticket, and I give my luggage to the customer service person. Do I leave my luggage unlocked then, or do I go through security first, and then pick up my ticket?

Hi brneyes. The order is pick up ticket/boarding pass -> check luggage at same desk --> then go to the security checkpoint with only your carry-on bag. You won't be able to go through security without a boarding pass. You'll also need to show photo ID when going through security, so be sure to not pack it in your checked luggage.

I lock my luggage before checking it at the desk.

Lisap, I was told that it is better to have a TSA lock for the luggage that you are putting on the airline. They say it is the kind that security can open without a lot of problems, if need be.

I understand the locks cost about $6.00 or more a piece.

Have you heard of any of this?

brneyes. If you lock your luggage for the airlines, you must have TSA approved locks, otherwise, they will not allow you to lock the luggage.

Or... they'll cut a big X right through your luggage like they did mine 2 years ago at the Newark, NJ Airport. THAT WAS FUN! NOT.

Why would they do that when a pair of side-cutters would snip off any luggage lock I've seen?

Very good question f-mattox. One that we posed to the TSA that went unanswered. I'm guessing the baggage handler/TSA went postal that day. Although, TSA requested the luggage for inspection and gave us $250.00 for compensation and the inconvenience. Still was pretty embarrassing walking through Newark.

Yes, we use TSA locks. We've also been known to use twist ties -- but haven't done that in a while.

Andrea, I'd be more than annoyed if TSA did that to my bags. I'm glad you received compensation, yet I agree that an answer to your question would have been nice, too.

Hubby and I started packing our non-TSA locks and locking hte luggage with cable ties. That way IF TSA wants to search they can cut a cable tie (we pack extras for the return trip). Then when we are at our destination, we use our locks that a thief would have to cut through (versus using a pin or one of just a hand full of simple keys for a TSA lock). Interstingly enough, we have yet to have them cut through any cable ties. I'm guessing we don't have anything interesting enough for them to waste their time.

Erika