To Lock or Unlock Suitcases on Flight?

I know when you fly to US you can get a lock that only customs can open if they need to. Is that the sane for Dom Rep?

I have heard about the US type lock, but don't think it's applicable to Dom Rep unfortunately. Would solve all my probs!

I usually lock mine, but i'm sure that i read somewhere that you're supposed to leave them open so that customs can check them if they need to.

Last time I flew to the caribbean they ripped my case to shreds because it was locked so now I don't bother locking it ever.

My friend used to be a customs' officer and scared me with some of the stories she told me. I never used to lock my case but she explained that even though locks can be tampered with, at least if something is smuggled in you have half a leg to stand on by showing that you had your case locked, rather than no legs at all by leaving it unlocked.

We use cable ties, easy for customs to open if they need to but usually enough to deter the casual observer.

I always lock them, mainly cause i'm worried i've over-packed and my stuff will fall out if I don't ?

When we went to Las Vegas and NY on our honeymoon I locked them and the security just got me to unlock them and then let me lock them again.

This is a really good idea! We have loads of cable ties too.

Just make sure you take spares for the way back, oh and have access to something that can cut the tie! I must credit my rather smart MIL for this idea.

Sounds like a great idea! How do you do it? So that they go all the way round the case?

Great idea for the cable ties, will be giving this a go when we go away in a couple of weeks. I will try and remember the spares for the trip home too.

I suppose you just tie them through the pull bits on the zips?

I always lock my suitcase, but am loving the cable tie idea. Although where would I put the pen knife needed to cut through them at the other end - dangerous weapon in hand luggage alert?! ?

You can either put the tie through the holes for the lock (if it will fit) or through the zip pulls (there is usually a hole in them somewhere). I actually dont remember if my H has the penknife in his pocket or not or how we opened the cases if not oops, it might have been scissors we asked for at the reception.

Cable ties are the easiest thing to use, and a simple pair of scissors just break them!

Lock them somehow, either locks or cable ties (Fab idea!)

We have just come back from holiday and didnt lock the case and had 40 euros worth of cigeraettes stolen, my h was not best pleased :-( NOt sure where it happened but probably the spanish bag handlers, argh!