There are special locks you can buy that the TSA (Transportation Safety Administration) can open with a special key. http://travelstore.ricksteves.com/catalog/index.cfm?fuseaction=product&theParentId=124&id=253

I've had to take off my shoes and coat for sometime. I make it a point to wear shoes that can be easily taken off and put on. My laptop is always sent through the x-ray machine. I also make things faster and easier by putting change, keys, cell phone, etc. into my carry on luggage.

>My daughter flew back from Raleigh in the US yesterday.
>
>On opening her checked in bag she found a note that the contents had been checked for security.
>The note also said if your bag is locked they will force it open and you have no claim for any damage so don't lock your bag. Presumably the baggage handlers are then free to pinch your best stuff.
>
>Also on the way out she had to remove her shoes but they didn't check her laptop. On the way back they checked her laptop but not her shoes.
>
>Nick Mason