How can you protect expensive items in your checked baggage?

Josh Roberts believes the best trips involve long hikes and muddy boots. His life goals haven't changed much since he was a kid: He still wants to be Indiana Jones when he grows up.

Follow him on Twitter (@joshwhowrites) and Instagram (@joshwhowrites), and visit his website (joshrobertsbooks.com) or Goodreads page to learn more about his forthcoming novel.

Josh joined SmarterTravel in 2001, and is an active member in both the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).

In addition to SmarterTravel, he has written for USA Today, The Boston Globe, Yahoo! Travel, The Huffington Post, Airfarewatchdog, TripAdvisor, Jetsetter, ABC News, Oyster, and Business Insider. His travel photography can be seen in Britain and Ireland's Best Wild Places, published by Penguin UK.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A lacrosse ball. It's small, lightweight, and works wonders on loosening up tight muscles."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Being the first to discover an ancient lost city. Failing that, visiting as many of the already-discovered ancient ruins as possible."

Travel Motto: "Not all those who wander are lost." -J.R.R. Tolkien

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle."

See recent posts by Josh Roberts

Several readers have written to us asking about the new baggage restrictions in effect as part of the orange and red security levels on domestic and international flights. In particular, I’ve seen some concern from travelers who want to help by packing electronic devices (like laptops and iPods) in their checked baggage, but are nervous about leaving those expensive items unguarded from potential thieves.

Many readers may not be aware that while the TSA does prohibit most locks on checked baggage, it also allows certain TSA-approved locks. TSA employees have a “master key” that opens any of these locks should your bag be targeted for closer inspection, but casual thieves are likely to be deterred and look for an easier target.

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