I can’t think of one instance when I’ve used a combination lock to secure my checked luggage. Maybe when I was 20 and backpacking through Europe; I vaguely recall using a big ol’ school-locker lock to keep safe my backpack in various hostels. But, frankly, I figure that if someone really wants the stuff out of my suitcase, they’re going to get it whether the zippers are locked shut or not.

That said, you do hear some crazy tales about items being stolen out of checked baggage. So if you do feel like you’re checked valuables would be more secure with a lock, you might consider the easy-to-set combination lock from WordLock.

I like the idea behind this lock since four-letter words are so much easier to remember than four-number combinations. The instructions to set the combination are easy to follow. In fact, my 7-year-old (with the help of his 9-year-old sister) figured out how to change the combo I set (R-O-C-K) to D-O-R-K.

In case you can’t come up with your own clever four-letter combination, a list of different options comes with the lock instructions. Each dial has 10 different letters on it; not all 26 are available, so you are somewhat limited. (Even so, there are 10,000 possibilities.)

The lock is recognized by the TSA, and inspectors can use a universal key to open it if they need to inspect your luggage by hand — no bolt cutters necessary. (Note, however, that sometimes it’s the TSA inspectors doing the stealing.)

My advice: If an item is really valuable, put it in your carry-on luggage.

WordLocks are available at many big-box retailers; plug in your zip code here to find one near you. Or purchase online at Amazon.com for under $10. The lock makes a nice travel gift or stocking stuffer.