Yes, you’ve got a TSA approved lock on your bag because you’re a savvy traveller. But watch this eye-opening video to see how easy it can be for a thief to break into your luggage despite that lock. Then read below for tips on how you can make sure your luggage is safe.

.

So how can you avoid luggage theft?

Common sense
Keep an eye on your luggage at all times. It only takes a few seconds for a busy traveller to get distracted, which becomes a moment of opportunity for any thief to simply walk away with a nice bundle of valuables that packed and ready on a set of wheels. If you’re travelling with a partner, make sure one person is watching the luggage at all times. If you’re travelling solo, take your bags with you wherever you go, even to the washroom (most washroom stalls are big enough to accommodate a carry-on suitcase).

Keep a sharp watch as you go through security
As your carry-on luggage disappears into the scanner, keep an eye on the conveyor belt on the other side as your stuff comes back out. Also keep a watch on the person in line in front of you. If you get distracted, someone can easily walk away with your laptop or jewellery as they pick up their own things ahead of you.

Extra protection
Keep putting that TSA lock on your bags, but as added protection, secure your bags with plastic strips or cable ties. TSA can easily cut through them if they need, but the added layer a thief has to get through to access your valuables will become a deterrent.

Shrink-wrapping your bags is another option. Not only does it deter thieves, it also protects your luggage from getting damaged while being handled at the airport.

Use a hard shell suitcase
A “clam-shell" style suitcase that has a latch closure is a better option because there is no zipper that can be broken into. The hard casing also can’t be slashed open by a blade and thus provides added security.

Don’t blend in with the crowd
Pick a vibrant colour or pattern that is easily recognizable from a distance. In case someone walks away with your bag, you’ll be able to spot it from a distance.

Pack smart
Avoid taking valuables with you while travelling. Pack items that are easily replaceable. If you don’t need it, don’t bring it. If you are going to carry an item of value, put it in your carry-on bag and keep it with you at your seat while you’re on the plane.

Hide it
Wrap a camera inside a sweater or put jewellery in a shaving kit when you put it in your suitcase. If someone were to quickly rummage through your bag, they’ll likely miss these hidden items.

Keep an inventory
If items from your luggage happen to go missing while being handled by airport staff, an item inventory will help you report the theft right away.

Get baggage insurance
It may seem like an added expense, but if you want to travel with the peace of mind, an extra few dollars will be well worth the investment.

Do you have any tips for securing your valuables while travelling? Share them using the commenting tool below.