Locks
If you are bringing anything valuable and plan on leaving it in your back at the hostel, be sure to buy good backpack locks
. Unfortunately, theft happens and you don’t want it to ruin your trip. It is good to buy locks that are TSA approved, if you are going to keep them on your bag while flying. If your lock isn't approved by the TSA and you are traveling from the USA, the TSA will cut your locks.
TSA approved locks have a key slot on the side or bottom that allow the TSA to access your bag, without cutting your lock. On Lewis N' Clark locks, there is an indicator to let you know if the TSA has accessed you bag. If they have, you can reset your combination to ensure you bag is protected again.
Lewis N. Clark TSA Indicator ® 3 Dial Combination Lock
You should also bring a combination lock, as many hostels have lockers in the room for your backpack. As well, you can purchase a steel fiber cord, so that you can lock you bag up to posts or benches. This is especially handy, if you are going to sleep in public places.