01. How does it work?
Leading baggage and travel accessory manufacturers have joined together to use the special Travel Sentry® mark on baggage that meets the requirements of the TSA.
Airline check-in staff are being trained to recognize the Travel Sentry mark too so that they understand that baggage with this special mark is permitted to remain locked.
The TSA screeners have access to special tools that allow them to open baggage in the event that they must be opened for inspection.
02. How do I find Travel Sentry® Approved products?
Travel Sentry products are widely available at thousands of retail locations around the world including some of the world's largest retailers. They are also available from many online merchants.
Click here to find a store carrying Travel Sentry® Approved products near you.
03. I am traveling internationally. Can I use a Travel Sentry lock?
Yes. As of today, only the US TSA tells passengers that if their bags need to be opened for inspection that they may cut the locks if they are not Travel Sentry® Approved. When you travel internationally, use your Travel Sentry lock as you would any luggage lock to protect your belongings and peace of mind.
When you leave the US the TSA can inspect and relock you bag. Wherever you travel you can use your Travel Sentry lock to help protect your property.
04. When arriving in the USA, what happens when my baggage is rechecked on a US domestic connection after clearing US Customs?
When you fly to the USA, and are connecting to a domestic flight you will first clear US Customs. When you exit Customs your baggage generally will be ;re-checked' for you on the connecting flight. This is where the TSA will screen your bag and with a Travel Sentry lock they can open your bag, inspect it and relock it before it goes to the airlines.
05. Does Travel Sentry make locks?
No. Travel Sentry has set an industry standard which luggage and lock companies can use. Each luggage and lock manufacturer is free to design their own products provided they meet the requirements of the Travel Sentry system.
06. My Travel Sentry lock was cut open. What do I do?
If this was done by the TSA the cut lock may be left inside your baggage but they should always include a Notification of Baggage Inspection. If this notice is inside your baggage and the lock has been damaged or destroyed contact the company you purchased the lock from – most will replace it free of charge.
If you believe this was NOT done by the TSA then you should file a claim with your airline as soon as possible. Some locks are broken off as a result of rough handling in the airport conveyor belt systems. There are time limits for filing claims with the airlines so do not delay.
07. I have forgotten my combination. Is there any way to open the lock?
Unfortunately there is no way to open your lock or reset the combination if you forget the combination. Please be sure to keep your combination in a safe place.
08. I am having problems with my combination lock. What do I do?
If you have trouble setting your combination or other difficulties contact the manufacturer or the company you bought this from. They may be able to help.
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