Coconuts,
I get round the secure bag issue by 'locking' all my checked-in luggage with electrical cable ties - the same that the TSA use to reseal ones bags after searching. They're dirt cheap, yet keep basically honest people honest - like flimsey baggage locks really. Many has been the time that the TSA has simply cut them off, searched the bag, and resealed with the same. I have no problems with that and it's generally smiles all round.