As has been said before not a problem Ex-UK but I flew back from PHL last month and had the side pocket of my carry all padlocked. Nothing in it I'd just lost the key!
Still didn't stop the kindly TSA cutting the lock off and leaving a note (in the empty space!) stating what they'd done. They very kindly sealed it up with one of those zip fasterners. So problem solved for me - Thanks TSA!
So If I were you I'd lock your gear up and hope it doesn't get 'pulled'. At least it'll be secured in any event and there's ****** all you can do to stop them if they want to have a look-see.
Cheers
Benjurs