The importance of being a traveler with secure luggage can always be emphasized. In this case, the use of a lock on the bags is one of the solutions. Most travelers use two types of locks for security purposes: TSA Lock vs Combination Lock. Ideal for air travel, TSA locks let security personnel examine the contents without damaging the lock. Whereas, regular locks work only with the right key or a combination. In this article, we will look at TSA locks inseparably, comparing them to regular locks so that you can decide which travel security option to go for.
Image showing comparison between TSA Lock and Normal Lock
What is a TSA Lock?
A TSA Approved lock also called as tsa approved padlocks is an essential security lock for travelers, especially those who travel by air. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which is a body that governs the safety of the airport. This kind of security lock has been manufactured so that a TSA official can open it if necessary to inspect a baggage compartment. They possess a unique master key that can be used in the opening of the lock, and therefore, the TSA does not have to break the lock for any insight into the bag. Thus, TSA locks are handy for those who travel by air carrying bags and using the bag's security services because the bags are secured, and the contents are accessible for inspection without tampering with the lock.
What is a Normal Lock?
A standard lock is a regular kind of lock that is generally fitted in bags and suitcases. It may be a key lock, a number lock, or a combination lock. These standard locks prevent other people from tampering with your suitcase or bag without your consent, and many authorities tend to use them. Still, such packs have yet to have the explicit aim of airport security. When staff needs to examine the inside of a bag without access, they might be forced to break or cut the lock. Standard locks are satisfactory for preventing and controlling access in many situations, but they may fall short during air travel.
Ease of Use and Convenience
TSA approved luggage locks are convenient for those who travel often. They enable TSA personnel to access your bag for an inspection without cutting the lock, which is an advantage to frequent flyers, especially international ones.
Normal locks, however, prove to be more useful at home than when traveling. They generally come with a key or a twist of a dial, which may be a burden if you have several of them or misplace the combination. Additionally, with international air travel, ordinary leisure travel locks become a nuisance because TSA agents may have to destroy your suitcase’s lock to gain access to inspect its contents. Overall, these ordinary locks make traveling, especially for business executives who fly very often or internationally less effective.
Pro’s and Con’s of TSA Lock
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of TSA locks is essential for making an informed decision. So, let's discuss them in brief:
Advantages: They are very useful when traveling by air because they can be opened by a TSA agent without damaging the lock. This minimizes the chances of the lock getting damaged while being checked at the airport.
Disadvantages: Since TSA locks are designed more for use by TSA agents, they can easily become theft victims if not adequately secured. Furthermore, as TSA locks are designed for air travel, they offer no additional advantages in other forms of travel.
Pro’s and Con’s of Normal Lock
It is very crucial to evaluate both the merits and demerits of using normal locks prior to coming up with a conclusion. For that, let’s discus them in brief:
Advantages: Improvement in security for belongings since only you hold the key or combination. This can be attached to other bags or use for any kind of travel.
Disadvantages: TSA lock can be damaged if an agent needs to check the contents of a bag. May lead to delays or inconveniences when using airport security.
