Due to continuing threats of terrorism, security remains tight at our nation’s airports. There are signs warning travelers not to lock their luggage when they check it through; if they do, inspectors from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the federal agency in charge of airport security, may have to cut the lock off. That is, unless they have a Travel Sentry lock on their luggage.

“This is a great solution to the problems travelers have encountered with the bag screening process since 9-11. Being able to lock their bags again without fear of the locks being cut off gives passengers peace of mind,” says Anne McAlpin, author of “Pack it Up, Traveling Smart & Safe in Today’s World.” McAlpin is a packing expert with more than 15 years of experience in the travel industry. She says people lock their luggage not only for a feeling of security, but to prevent buckles from coming undone, dumping their belongings out in the cargo hold or luggage belt.

“The Travel Sentry system is the direct result of the travel industry developing a solution that addresses the public’s desire to lock their bags with the need of the TSA to have access to those bags for inspection,” says John Vermilye, managing director of Travel Sentry, the organization that developed the new locking system with the cooperation of luggage, lock and travel accessory manufacturers, and the TSA.

If a bag with one of the special locks -- that are clearly identified with a Travel Sentry Certified mark -- needs to be inspected, screeners will use a combination of codes and secured tools to unlock the lock, instead of cutting it off. Following inspection, the screener will re-lock the bag and send it on its way.

Several leading baggage manufacturers are currently designing luggage with built-in Travel Sentry locks, but you don’t have to wait until they roll off the assembly line to lock your luggage. Travelers can protect their belongings right now with Austin House Travel Sentry Certified locks. New for this summer are the Travel Sentry Pocket Lockit, a conveniently sized three number combination lock, and Mini Lock, a small lock opened with a key. They come in 8 different colors: black, brass, 3 different neons and 3 contemporary colors.

“The availability of different colors helps passengers easily identify their luggage on the baggage belt. The locks are sturdy and have large dials so you won’t need a magnifying glass to read them," says Stuart Taylor of Austin House.

Locking your luggage isn’t the only step the experts recommend you take to have a pleasant travel experience. “Doing a little prep work before you arrive at the airport will go a long way,” says McAlpin. In her new book, “Pack it Up, Traveling Smart & Safe in Today’s World,” she offers the following advice:

* Get a boarding pass holder. This travel essential has individualized pockets for your boarding pass, photo ID and passport, and hangs around your neck, giving you easy access to your papers as you make your way through the airport.

* Use plastic bags. Pack as many items as possible inside plastic bags. You’ll help make security’s job easier as they can see and feel what’s packed inside each bag without directly touching it, especially personal items like underwear.

* Bring along some comfort items. A few “must haves” for every carry-on bag: an inflatable neck and lumbar pillow, earplugs, a healthy snack and bottle of water. Most airlines have done away with serving food in the cabin, unless you pay extra for it.

* Wear comfortable shoes. Be sure to wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off, in case you have to take them off to go through a security check.

For more travel advice, log on to Anne McAlpin’s Web site: www.packitup.com. You can find Austin House Travel Sentry locks at your local travel specialty or AAA store. To find out more about the new locks, log onto www.austinhouse.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content

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