Suitcase Locks wont open

[smurfchops]

On returning from flights to Bangkok and then Heathrow, we couldn't open either of the little locks on our suitcases. This has never happened before and we had to saw them off ! Both cases had stickers on saying 'Security Checked'. Could the authorities have unlocked our cases and re-locked the little locks ? Nothing is missing by the way.

[KARL]

I have in the past experienced evidence of rather crude "checking" of my case and some of this has led to bizarre things like containers within it being punctured and others dented or misshaped. I concluded this could only be done by forcing something like a rod into the case and prodding with it until the effects were as I have described - indeed, there was evidence of something passing between the two halves (the joint when closed). On other occasions there has been some indication that fitted/integral locks have been tampered with. If you are talking about small padlocks then that is something I have no experience of but would not expect then to be immune from the same interference. The people who would do this would either be "security" at the departing airport or somewhere in between if changing aircraft, or customs at any airport from departure to final destination. For some years now, you are advised not to lock suitcases for departure from the USA because they do random (probably also selected with X-ray surveillance) checks on contents and will break open cases. I have also experienced such (unlocked inspection) with a slip of paper inside telling me they had had a look.

[mushroom25]

better to use cable ties to secure your case as they're easily removed by security - if you leave some new ties inside they might even re-seal your case (as they did mine at Seattle a year or 2 back)

[jno]

regarding US inspections, you can get locks they are able to open and close again (look for labels saying 'TSA-approved'). You'll get your luggage back apparently untouched but with a note inside saying the TSA have been and gone.

Sorry, that presumably doesn't explain Bangkok and Heathrow, though.

[Trotbot]

I have witnessed a customs officer open a case with two combination locks and a padlock in less that 15 seconds, without damaging it. I tried using the same technique and it took me over two minutes. There is a knack, apparently. I guess some officers just don't have the knack or the patience. I travel regularlly and it is reasonably common for my bags to be checked, as I usually have a bottle of wine or two in them. I guess it shows on the x ray and look suspicious

Locks deter casual thieves, but most people wanting to and in a position to steal out of cases are not casual. I have given up on locks, and, touch wood, have not had anything stolen since 1990.

[DebsyDoo]

I was going to say give them to the US Customs - they'll open anything !!