It is summer time and there are always the same questions about backpack locks, so I wanted to start this thread so that people can add to it with any new devices that are on the market.

Some people ask me about the electronic alarms for the backpack – what a waste! Although I have never had anyone steal my backpack, if someone wants to get something from your bag, they will either take the whole bag, or cut the bag and get in. The same is true for the PACSAFE thing that is made of “indestructible” metal net – if a criminal wants to break through it, all s/he has to do is take a lighter to the little metal pieces that hold together the indestructible metal net. Besides, you will never see any other backpackers with this contraption. Therefore, the people who do use it will be sending a signal that there MUST be expensive stuff in that backpack. There, I just saved you about $50-60.

My advice – Just put the little locks on the zippers as a deterrent, but if someone wants in badly enough, they will. I suggest using the combo locks, because while you can remember a combo, you might lose a key. Even if you don’t lose the key, it wastes time looking for the right key for each lock. Another option instead of locks is to use those plastic ties to lock your zippers together. These are pretty cheap and you can use your knife to open them when needed, but then again, so can a thief. But since many of the American Airports have recently instituted requirement that you do NOT LOCK YOUR BAGS, you should keep this in mind for the flight over to Europe. (I would still lock the bag and deal with the problems if they arise).

Many people suggest bringing a cable lock, but I have never thought that the weight was worth it. Maybe if I took a bunch of night trains in Eastern Europe, then I might reconsider.
Use common sense about where you leave it (and what you leave in it).