Michael Turner
Recommendation: Fasten a TSA-recognized security device (Travel Sentry or Safe Skies) to any hold bag. Screening officers carry master keys for these systems, so devices with the red Travel Sentry diamond or Safe Skies logo allow inspection without destruction; non-approved fastenings are likely to be cut during screening and will not be replaced by the carrier.
Practical steps: Choose a Travel Sentry/Safe Skies-approved combination or cable security device; photograph exterior ID and interior contents immediately before handing the bag to ticket counter staff; store key(s) and combination codes on the person and in a secure digital note; keep high-value and essential items (passports, cash, electronics, medications) in carry-on rather than in the hold.
For international itineraries, expect foreign security authorities to ignore TSA approvals and to open or remove fastenings. When a seal or wrap is applied by carrier or security staff, request a written receipt showing seal number and time applied. Use hard-shell cases with integrated latches when maximum protection is needed, but leave easy-access pockets unlocked for customs inspection.
At the ticket counter and baggage drop: confirm carrier policy on sealed bags before accepting any paid wrapping service; retain boarding pass, bag tag stubs and photos for claims. File loss or damage reports using the carrier’s procedure within the posted time limits (visible damage commonly reported at the airport; concealed loss reported within the carrier’s stated window), and keep receipts for declared high-value items to support reimbursement.
Use TSA-recognized fasteners on hold baggage and keep valuables in the cabin bag
Secure bags placed in the aircraft hold with Travel Sentry or Safe Skies–approved fasteners; retain electronics, medications, cash and travel documents in the cabin bag. Non-approved seals may be severed during security inspection; the carrier and security agency typically will not replace or reimburse for discarded non-approved devices.
Recommended devices and preparation
Select fasteners marked with the Travel Sentry or Safe Skies logo and record combination codes/serial numbers before departure. Add a tamper-evident cable tie as a secondary indicator, photograph the exterior and tag number of the bag at drop-off, and attach an inside luggage ID card with contact details. Consider an external strap with an approved fastener for extra compression and visual deterrence. Keep a list of high-value contents and copies of receipts stored digitally.
After inspection or damage
If a security or carrier agent opens a hold bag, expect a written inspection notice inside. Inspect the bag at the airline counter and file a property irregularity report (PIR) before leaving the airport; keep boarding pass, bag tag and any inspection notice. Submit a claim using the carrier’s published process and timelines, include photos and receipts, and follow up in writing if repair or reimbursement is sought. For immediate protection, place irreplaceable items in the cabin bag to avoid loss or delay in claims processing.
Are secured hold bags permitted on major U.S. carriers?
Use a TSA‑recognized travel security device (Travel Sentry or Safe Skies logo) on hold bags; non‑approved restraints may be cut by screening officers during inspections.
TSA personnel have access to universal opening tools for Travel Sentry/Safe Skies devices and will relatch the fastener after inspection when possible. Carriers reserve the right under their contract of carriage to open and inspect stowed cases, so expect forced entry if a non‑recognized device blocks access.
Practical steps: 1) Fit a Travel Sentry or Safe Skies approved security device. 2) Photograph bag exterior, contents list, and device serial or logo before check‑in. 3) Keep high‑value items (electronics, medications, jewelry, passports) in cabin baggage; for a compact rolling solution see best rolling briefcase for women.
Additional measures: use tamper‑evident seals or external luggage straps to show unauthorized entry; label interior items with identifying tags; register bag make/model and serial number at home in case of theft or damage.
If a fastener is removed or a bag is damaged, report the incident immediately at the airline’s baggage service counter, keep the damaged item and all travel documents, photograph damage, and file a written claim with the carrier while still at the airport.
TSA-approved security device for hold baggage: direct recommendation
Recommendation: secure hold baggage with a TSA-approved security device for travel on major U.S. carriers so Transportation Security Administration agents can access screened contents without cutting closures.
Recognized devices and identifiers
Prefer Travel Sentry– or Safe Skies–branded products; look for codes such as TSA001–TSA007 on the device or packaging. Common formats include keyed pad-style devices and combination cable closures that accept master-key inspection. Purchase from reputable retailers and retain the receipt and model/serial number.
Practical guidance and what to expect
Non-approved security devices are at high risk of being severed during inspection. Foreign security authorities may lack compatible master keys and often replace or remove closures with tamper-evident seals. Avoid placing irreplaceable items in stowed baggage; keep those in carry-on instead.
Before handing over, photograph the bag (wide shot plus close-ups of any serials), note the device model, and record the combination or key tag number in a secure file. If the device is cut or the bag is damaged, obtain a written inspection/damage receipt from the carrier or security checkpoint, take timestamped photos, and submit a claim per the carrier’s baggage-damage procedures promptly.
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What happens if TSA or the carrier opens a secured hold bag?
Expect an inspection notice attached to the exterior, possible removal or cutting of non‑TSA‑compliant security devices, and resealing with tamper‑evident materials; document condition and report damage or missing items to the carrier before leaving the airport.
Inspection process and typical outcomes
- TSA has statutory authority to screen hold bags (49 U.S.C. § 44901). Screening may include opening any bag to examine contents.
- When a bag is opened by security, an official notification tag will be left; retain that tag and record its number or description.
- Non‑compliant security devices are commonly cut or removed; agents normally reseal with plastic ties or tamper‑evident seals rather than replacing original devices.
- Photographs of contents may be taken by inspectors; instructions on the inspection tag typically advise contacting the carrier for loss or damage claims.
Immediate actions and claims procedure
- Preserve the inspection tag, boarding pass and bag claim tag; photograph the bag’s exterior, interior and any damage before repacking.
- Obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or damage report from the carrier’s baggage service office at the airport; record the report number and agent name.
- Create an itemized list of missing or damaged articles with serial numbers and purchase receipts where available.
- Submit a written claim to the carrier per its contract of carriage; include PIR, photos, receipts, boarding pass and bag tag copies.
- If inspection appears to have caused damage, submit a separate complaint or claim to TSA via tsa.gov/contact, attaching the inspection tag photo and all documentation.
- Keep any removed security device or cut pieces until claim resolution; carriers or TSA may request inspection of those items.
Time limits vary: report issues at the airport whenever possible and follow the carrier’s stated deadlines for written claims; for international travel, the Montreal Convention provides a two‑year time limit for loss or damage claims. Financial responsibility depends on whether the carrier or a federal inspector caused the harm and on applicable treaties or the carrier’s contract of carriage.
Which security devices are safe to use for hold baggage?
Prefer Travel Sentry–approved combination or keyed security devices (look for the Travel Sentry or “TSA Accepted” logo); these permit Transportation Security Administration access without routine destruction of the fastener during U.S. screenings.
Practical options and trade-offs
Travel Sentry combination fasteners – Reusable, moderate-to-high cut resistance, convenient for frequent travelers; verify the Travel Sentry mark on the device or case zipper pull. Travel Sentry keyed fasteners – Similar access benefits but keep spare key or record of the key code; replacement keys may be required if lost. Tamper-evident cable seals – Single-use, high tensile strength, serialized for proof of opening; intended where a cut-seal provides evidence rather than continued reuse. Pull‑tight plastic seals (zip-tie style) – Very low strength, single-use, inexpensive; useful for low-cost verification but expected to be removed by screeners. Integrated case hardware with Travel Sentry mechanism – Best balance of durability and screener access when present from manufacturer. High-security aftermarket metal fasteners without Travel Sentry approval – Strong physically but will likely be cut by screeners if access needed; avoid when preserving the fastener is desired.
| Device type | Screening access | Reusable | Relative strength | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Sentry combination fastener | Yes (Travel Sentry/TSA) | Yes | Medium–High | Frequent flyers wanting reusability and lower risk of device damage |
| Travel Sentry keyed fastener | Yes (Travel Sentry/TSA) | Yes | Medium–High | Those preferring keyed access; keep spare key separately |
| Tamper-evident cable seal (serialized) | Will be cut if access required | No | High | When evidence of opening is desired and single-use is acceptable |
| Pull-tight plastic seal | Often cut | No | Low | Low-cost tamper indication for low-risk contents |
| Integrated hard-shell fastener with approved mechanism | Yes (if Travel Sentry compatible) | Yes | High | Durable factory-installed security on hardside cases |
| Non-approved heavy metal fastener | Likely cut by screeners | Depends | Very high | Avoid if preserving the fastener is important; suitable only when preventing opportunistic tampering is primary goal |
Tips: photograph serial numbers or seal IDs before transit, store keys and combination details separately from the hold bag, place small valuables in hand-carry, and label reusable Travel Sentry devices with a contact method in case of separation.
How to file a damage or loss claim for a secured bag with the carrier
Report damage or non-delivery at the airport baggage service office before leaving the terminal; if in-person reporting is impossible, submit an online claim immediately – domestic damage notification is normally required within 24 hours, international damage within 7 days, and loss/delay complaints generally within 21 days of the expected delivery.
Required documentation and evidence:
- Boarding pass and flight itinerary.
- Baggage receipt/ticket tag barcode and the Property Irregularity Report (PIR) number issued at the airport.
- Clear photos showing exterior and interior damage, broken zippers, tampered seals, or opened compartments.
- Itemized list of missing or damaged contents with approximate values and purchase dates.
- Original purchase receipts or proof of value for high‑value items; repair estimates for damaged items.
- Police report if theft is suspected (recommended for high‑value loss or criminal damage).
Step‑by‑step claim submission:
- At arrival: locate the carrier’s baggage service counter, present boarding pass and bag tag, obtain a PIR, and photograph the bag and damaged contents before leaving the airport area.
- If no airport report possible: access the carrier’s baggage claims page via the mobile app or website, complete the online claim form, upload photos and receipts, and note the confirmation reference.
- For lost or delayed items: track the PIR status; if delivery is not made, convert the report into a formal claim within the required deadline and provide a contents list with values.
- Maintain originals: keep damaged items, tags, and packaging for inspection; submit repair invoices and any requested documents promptly.
- Follow up: use the claim reference to check status; escalate to the carrier’s customer relations or specialized baggage support if no substantive response within 30–60 days.
Liability caps and reimbursement guidance:
- Domestic travel: statutory baggage liability is commonly limited (recent figures around $3,800 per passenger for U.S. carriers); submit proof of value to support higher reimbursements where applicable.
- International travel: liability is typically governed by the Montreal Convention and calculated in Special Drawing Rights (SDRs); attach receipts and documented values for better recovery.
- Mitigation: repair receipts, replacement invoices, and contemporaneous receipts accelerate settlement; partial settlements may occur pending documentation.
Dispute resolution and next steps:
- If claim denial or unsatisfactory offer occurs, request a written explanation and re-submit missing documentation or independent repair estimates.
- For unresolved domestic complaints, filing a DOT consumer complaint or pursuing small‑claims court are available options; for international disputes, consider Montreal Convention procedures or local consumer protection agencies.
- Retain all correspondence, receipts, and photographic evidence until the claim is fully closed or legal remedies are exhausted.
