It makes sense that travelers want to protect their valuables while sending their travel gear into the unknowns of the airport, but it’s equally important for TSA to be able to inspect checked luggage if and when the need arises. That’s where TSA-approved and -recognized locks come into play. They’re designed to secure luggage and valuables but still allow TSA to open your baggage when necessary.
“TSA-approved locks are vital for securing your suitcase whilst still allowing TSA officers easy access, should they need it, during the screening process,” says Caroline Crossland, founder and resident gadget expert at Crosswalk Clan. “A proper TSA-approved lock will prevent the need for locks to be cut off or for suitcases to be damaged, as they can be opened with master keys.”
Finding a TSA luggage lock is as easy as looking for the red diamond-shaped Travel Sentry logo on the lock’s packaging. This seal indicates the brand has collaborated with TSA directly and is approved to bring on commercial aircraft.
You shouldn’t worry about having your baggage torn through without receiving notice once you land either. Crossland notes that if this happens, the TSA will leave you a “Notice of Baggage Inspection” slip inside, though many TSA-approved locks will change color or otherwise alert you if the TSA has opened your luggage.
So, if you’re shopping for a TSA-approved luggage lock to keep your valuables safe, here are some of our favorite tried-and-true options that range from basic and budget-friendly to super high-end and teched out. Whether you’re looking to use one for your favorite checked luggage or a carry-on bag, these are our favorites.
With its durable metal body and vinyl-covered cable, this luggage lock is designed to withstand baggage handling abuse while allowing you to set up your own three-digit combination for keyless convenience. It's available in four colors.
Sometimes it’s best to go with an old-fashioned lock and key, especially if you don’t trust yourself to remember a combination at the end of a long-haul flight. This basic padlock design from Master Lock is constructed from a solid metal design and features a cut-resistant steel shackle for added peace of mind.
This TSA-approved luggage lock from BV offers a set-your-own-combination feature for secure use on luggage, but they can also work well on filing cabinets, toolboxes, school gym lockers and more.
The TravelMore Ultra-Secure Mini Key Padlock stands out with its bright-orange color and innovative design. It separates into a body and a cable-like bar that passes through zippers, securing with a key for added convenience and security.
Jenny Ly, founder of Go Wanderly, recommends the Forge Cable Lock for its ultra-thin design, ideal for securing luggage with difficult-to-lock zippers. It has a strong, braided cable of zinc and steel that can withstand mishandling. Forge offers a variety of styles and packages, including longer cables and multipacks.
The Talonport Keyless Locks offer a convenient alternative to traditional locks with their key card access. This eliminates the need for codes or keys. Featuring a secure metal shackle, each pack includes four locks and extra cards for replacements. It is ideal for sharing among family members or securing multiple pieces of luggage. And if you lose all your cards, Talonport offers free replacements.
Secure your backpacks and suitcases with these TSA-approved, high-quality luggage locks. Ly notes that they’re made of alloy and stainless steel, which makes them difficult for thieves to access. “For further security, the lock incorporates a four-digit coding scheme, and you may program up to 10,000 lock combinations. The steel metal loop is resistant to break and fits into most regular zippers,” Ly says. We love the pop-up inspection indicator that lets you know if the TSA inspected your bag.
The Sure Lock TSA-Compatible Travel Luggage Locks are highly durable with an ultra-tough alloy body and hardened stainless steel internal mechanisms. They have an inspection indicator that pops up if TSA has opened your luggage. We also like that each one has a flexible cables that secures various types of luggage, like Pelican cases.
This four-pack of TSA-approved luggage locks looks like a pretty basic locking system at first glance, but the high-tech locks actually alert you when the lock has been tampered with — either by the TSA or otherwise. The subtle open indicator will remain popped out of the locking system from the moment the lock is opened and will stay flagged until you’re able to unlock the mechanism with your unique combination.
The Xool Luggage Lock is another great budget-friendly option that allows you to set your unique combination and send your luggage on its way without stressing about thieves or potential damage to your suitcase. The easy-to-read four-digit combination lock also features a built-in slot for a TSA master key as well as a small alert indicator that will pop up if the TSA inspects your luggage.
The Nanuk 900-TSA Luggage Lock is tailored for hard cases and storage containers, especially those like Nanuk cases. Its hardened steel shackle and silicone tether allows easy stretching over tight spots, which are common with photography or videography Pelican cases. It features an alert indicator for tamper detection during transit too.
This four-pack of TSA-approved cable luggage locks from Forge will give you great value for your money. As Amazon’s Choice for luggage locks by Forge, you’ll get four alloy lock bodies with tightly braided and sheathed steel cables and hardened steel cable lock ends. These locks also require TSA agents to relock the device before removing their key for added security.
Each of these top-rated TSA-approved luggage locks looks and feels secure, thanks to the heavy, all-metal construction that is not just virtually indestructible but very streamlined and sophisticated-looking. The pack of three was designed to match Tumi luggage sets and comes in classic red, silver and black colorways to easily blend in with (or stand out from) your luggage.
FAQs
Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored Money chose as the best travel credit cards currently available.