OK---Going to SA for my first(taking my daughter) and only time(low retirement income) in 2013 and I keep hearing about TSA locks. What are they? Where to get them in California, USA? Do I have to use them on my luggage? Both carry on and other? Regular padlocks for the gun cases and ammo cases?? Best to travel with hard case check in luggage(ie Samsonite with built in locks) or soft case better with locked zippers? I presume the soft case for my carry on?
Sorry for the dumb questions but I want to try and not have any problems. One more unrelated question. Is a gun service needed, a smart choice or a waste of money?

Thanks for any help and please do not just flame me.

TSA locks are small luggage locks that are master keyed to allow the TSA officers to open them and inspect the contents of your luggage without having to cut the lock off.

You can tell a TSA lock because it has a small red & white diamond emblem on it that ID's it as a TSA lock. Masterlock and others make them and anywhere that sells padlocks will probably have TSA locks. Here is a link to Masterlocks site that shows a TSA lock.

http://www.masterlock.com/prod...roduct_details/4683Q

I use TSA locks on my luggage and my ammo box. You have to use a regular pad lock that only you can open on your gun case.

I think soft side luggage is better but only because of weight restrictions imposed on baggage now.

I used a permit service both times and felt it was worth it.

Good luck on your trip!

Adam

Wal- Mart

You can find TSA locks almost anywhere; Walgreen's Drugs as an example. And yes, gun service meet & greet clearance is worth the price, especially for a first timer as JNB can be a bit overwhelming the first time through. Good luck and enjoy.

Divernhunter,

I like the TSA Masterlock with the cable. Regular hardsided luggage like Samsonite with built in locks are a problem if TSA decides they need access to your luggage. Most people prefer the the soft sided rolling duffel. Make sure to use the TSA locks only on your luggage and a conventional padlock on your gun case. TSA locks are not permitted on your gun case.

Mark

Thank you for your help.
New question. What gun service and approx cost for 2 rifle cases with 4 rifles?

I have Samsonite hard sided luggage with built in TSA locks. The new stuff comes with TSA locks.

UEG,

Figured you'd be ahead of me on travel stuff

Mark