Suitcase locks for US

Party_Animal

Flying to Panama City via Newark shortly. I assume that we won't see our bags again till we get to Panama, but I do remember having to take our bags off at LAX once and check them back in. I've got one of those pacsafe locks for the main body of my holdall. The trouble is there are several pockets on the holdall. Does each pocket need a pacsafe because that would cost a fortune? If I left them empty what's to stop someone putting something illegal in?
Thanks

dzug1

Wrong assumption alas - you will have to collect your baggage at Newark, take it through US customs and recheck it. You also pass through US immigration.

Same on the way back.

Don't forget to do an ESTA - it's needed even if you are only in transit.


You don't need a lock for each pocket if you are prepared to leave them unlocked. There's nothing to stop someone putting something illegal in - but how would they retrieve it?

I actually use 'noddy' padlocks that TSA can pick with a bit of wire (so can I come to that) - they've never had to cut things open yet. They've been relocked and a note left inside. Or tie them with string that they can easily cut open - if their x ray shows nothing they probably won't bother anyway

[Deleted User]

Other people have used cable ties for pockets, carry spares if they are opened

Party_Animal

Thanks for the advice. I've already got the ESTAs and I'll try the cable ties.