Preventing LHR Baggage Theft.

As LHR to HKG baggage requirements are not like in America where you can't lock your bag etc. - can I essentially wrap my bag in cling film as I have seen done in European Airports to firstly prevent pilfering and secondly stick a rock steady lock on it?

What ways asides from buying lots of insurance can I seek to safeguard my luggage in Hold? These new Virgin Restrictions of ONE bag in economy is mighty annoying for me...

Originally posted by kmhtkmhtkmht
As LHR to HKG baggage requirements are not like in America where you can't lock your bag etc. - can I essentially wrap my bag in cling film as I have seen done in European Airports to firstly prevent pilfering and secondly stick a rock steady lock on it?

What ways asides from buying lots of insurance can I seek to safeguard my luggage in Hold? These new Virgin Restrictions of ONE bag in economy is mighty annoying for me...

I know I'm going to regret saying this, but don't use designer baggage. There was a case at LHR with the Beckhams where it was widely viewed that the reason they got stung a few years ago was their penchant for Louis Vuitton baggage. A documentary about Thiefrow five years ago or so specifically suggested not to check designer baggage as it was a magnet for thieves.

Stick to ballistic nylon.

Cheers, Howard

I have often thought about this very point as I was going to go buy some "Globe Trotter" Branded Luggage at about 2000 Quid a PoP but the more I think about it the more it is a magnet as you say for thieves, I use cheap Made in China rubbish bags but this did not prevent me having my bag stolen on me with about 10000 dollars with of Suits ( 5 suits ) and various dress shoes and this was in a RUBBISH cheapo bag!

As crap as it is to hear this, if someone wants to get in your bag, they're going to get in your bag whether it's wrapped in plastic or not.

It will deter most people as it's effort to cut through, but if someone thinks there's something in there worth taking they'll get in.

A lockable luggage strap is another extra measure that would be effort for someone to take off if they wanted to get in your case.

One thing i never do, is travel with a suitcase or bag that is done up by a zip. You can lock this sure, but all you need is a pen between the teeth of the zip and you're in.

If you do decide on plastic, make sure you're not over your allowance before it's wrapped because if it's over, the argument "But it's wrapped so i can't take anything out" wont stand with the check in agents!!

And by the way, where you getting your info from about only being allowed one bag?? You can have as many bags as you like so long as it's not over your allowance to HKG.

I rarely check stuff in as I find its faster to pack a weeks clothes and launder rather than packing for any event!
I realise not everyone can-would be happy to do this (but it removes security worries!)

Lipstick you are correct Asia routes on VS are by weight
Details here

^And going to HKG, you could get your clothes hand made there for next to nothing! Along with some nice curtains.