Abstract: Locking pull-tabs for a zipper include a first pull-tab that may be connected to a first slider and a second pull-tab that may be connected to a second slider of the zipper. The first pull-tab and second pull-tab include a first locking coupler and a second locking coupler, respectively. The first locking coupler and second locking coupler may enable the first pull-tab and second pull-tab to engage each other in a manner that secures a zipper in a closed arrangement and, thus, provides some security to contents of an item that are enclosed in the item with the zipper. The first locking coupler and second locking coupler may engage each other in a manner that requires intentional and conspicuous manipulation of the first pull-tab and second pull-tab to uncouple them. Methods for locking a zipper are also disclosed.

Abstract: An expandable sling bag has a shape and a shoulder strap that enable the sling bag to be worn across an individual's back, chest and/or abdomen, or side, under the individual's arm. The expandable sling bag includes an expandable receptacle that enables the sling bag to accommodate an oversized item, such as a portable computer, a sleeve for a portable computer, or the like, with dimension that exceed a height of the sling bag. More specifically, the expandable sling bag may include a receptacle with an opening at its top, an expandable base positionable within a bottom portion of the receptacle, and a bottom opening through which the expandable base may be extended to expand a length of the receptacle. Methods of using an expandable sling bag to carry oversized items are also disclosed.