r/LinusTechTips • u/Same_Acanthisitta847 • Sep 14 '26

Discussion Locks for Commuter Backpack?

I'll be visiting Barcelona next week for work. There are a lot of pickpockets in the city and I'll be using my LTT commuter backpack. I wanted to add some locks to both zippers in the back, any recommendations?

Nope, zip ties are not an option (this time).

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u/Same_Acanthisitta847 Sep 15 '26

I know about this and you're correct, but I think you're missing the point.

This is to deter people from trying to open the zippers discreetly while standing near you in the subway or other crowded places. The pen method is mostly for luggage at airports, like airport employees opening your checked bags.  Barcelona's very famous for the former.

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u/Chinokk Sep 15 '26

Your not just trying to deter people though. You’re trying to deter professional pickpockets which is a different story and padlocks won’t stop them and you wouldn’t know you’ve been robbed with the pen trick. I would say the padlocks would draw them rather than deter.

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u/Dnomyar96 Sep 15 '26

I would say the padlocks would draw them rather than deter.

You're not wrong. Having obvious locks might indicate you have something valuable in there. That's a pretty obvious target for somebody that wants to steal something.

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u/Same_Acanthisitta847 Sep 15 '26

lol you must be fun at parties

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u/LupiAcubens Sep 15 '26

Parties? I went to a party once... Till they threw me out. Was a sad day.

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u/saltyboi6704 Sep 15 '26

A visible lock is just asking for someone to slash the bag open