For hard sided luggage that has some sort of clasp on the top, wrap the strap around the luggage so that it keeps the luggage closed. Place the buckle in the middle of the front or back side. Cinch the strap tight against the luggage, but not so much that it bends the luggage. The strap should be at a right angle to the opening of the bag.
Pull it tight enough that if the zipper comes open, the strap will keep the bag closed tightly.
Buckle the strap on the front middle of the lower piece of luggage. Cinch it tightly enough that the top piece does not move around, but not so tight that either piece of luggage bends under the pressure. You’ll want to try your best to make it so that the handle will still shut, as it will not be able to stay extended during transit.
Most luggage straps are adjustable to different lengths, so when you have it set for a smaller piece of luggage than the maximum, you’re likely to have some extra.
If you are traveling as a family and you have similar luggage, it can also be an easy way to identify whose is whose.
Some straps may come with a buckle that is similar to a belt, which would require you to weave the strap itself through a metal or plastic clasp. This type is not recommended as it will take you longer to secure around your luggage.
While the security aspect is great, some people do advise against locking straps because they say it can pose a hold up with TSA who may wish to check your luggage and would be unable to. It’s possible to purchase TSA approved luggage locks. These locks are made so that a master key, which TSA agents have, can unlock the lock. You can purchase these locks at most airports and travel accessory stores. To make things easier, it is probably best to write down the combination and keep it somewhere you can get to it easily. You don’t want to be stuck somewhere without the ability to get into your luggage.
