'Genius' two-second travel hack 'locks your bag' in crowded destinations

A savvy travel lover has wowed social media users after sharing her "genius" hack to help keep her belongings safe during days outs. In a viral post on TikTok, @charlottenorth revealed a two-second trick for creating a "makeshift lock" for your handbag.

The "smart" idea seriously impressed viewers, with some calling it "the best hack." It's also "so simple", as you'll only need one item to try it. As seen in the viral clip, Charlotte recommended using a claw clip to "lock" bags. Commenters also suggested using karabiners for the same effect.

In her post, Charlotte said: "How to lock your bag when travelling - I might just be dumb but I figured this out halfway through my trip and it felt revolutionary." She then demonstrated the method, which saw her feed a hair clip through the zip and then clip it to her bag's strap to create a "makeshift lock."

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The hack went viral on social media, with the video gaining over 800,000 views. An impressed reviewer replied: "I love this omg how smart!!" A second wrote: "So simple yet genius!"

Another fan of the hack commented: "That's so smart omg!! Thanks for sharing!" A fourth commenter agreed: "This is so smart!!" Charlotte replied: "Honestly felt so much better walking round crowded areas like this!!!"

Someone shared: "I've been doing this with a carabiner and it’s perfect when I travel!!" A different response read: "Been doing this for a year and it’s the best hack!!" Another said: "I always do this! Looks cute and my stuff is safe."

Elsewhere, a commenter said: "Ohhhhhh! I think I’ll do this for my upcoming Italy trip this summer!" Similarly, someone wrote: "Ohhh, I might do this for our summer euro trip."

Issuing advice on pickpocketing, the states: "Remember, having a zipped bag doesn’t mean you’re totally safe. Thieves have been known to walk behind victims while slowly unzipping bags. Yes, they can be that bold. So, never underestimate a pickpocket."

The webpage also includes dos and don'ts to help keep your belongings safe, such as carrying bags in front of you or diagonally across your chest and concealing your wallet in a buttoned or zipped pocket.