Keeping your belongings safe while traveling is a must. Locking your luggage is one of the ways to give you peace of mind. However, some travelers believe they’re not allowed to lock the baggage because security agents at the airport may open and inspect your luggage. To some extent, this is not true. With the best luggage security lock, especially TSA Approved lock, this won’t be a problem. The lock will protect your luggage from potential thieves and keep it safe while in transit. And if your luggage needs to be checked by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents, they can unlock and lock your luggage without breaking or damaging it.
How to Choose the Best Luggage Security Lock
You can find many good luggage locks in the market, from traditional padlocks and keys to card locks. TSA Approved luggage locks are, of course, your best options. These locks are easily accessible by TSA agents using a universal ‘master’ key. With this, they can access and examine your luggage if needed, but your luggage remains secure and protected.
We recommend buying a luggage protective cover and luggage tag as well to make the most of your convenience. Here’s all the information you should know before you buy luggage security locks that will help you to narrow in on your search.
TSA Approved mark
For your hassle-free travel, it’s recommended to lock your luggage with TSA Approved locks. These are the ones with the Travel Sentry or Safe Skies identifying marks: red diamond logo or a torch and a flame logo. These marks mean the locks are approved by TSA.
Types of luggage locks
There are plenty of different types of locks to choose from. Key locks are the most traditional locking devices and the easiest to use. But, if you lose the key, you may need to break or cut it to access your belongings.
Another type of the best luggage security lock is combination locks, with 3 or 4 digits. You have nothing to worry about keeping track of a key or losing it. It’s a popular choice for travelers because it keeps your luggage sets away from would-be thieves as long as you don’t forget the combination.
Last but not least, we have cable locks. They’re more versatile and can be used in a variety of situations. These locks have a semi-flexible cable instead of a metal clip to lock. Not only are they ideal for traveling, but you can also use them for lockers.
Alert or indicator feature
If TSA agents inspect your luggage, they usually put a ‘Notification of Baggage Inspection’ placed inside your bag. Most of TSA Approved luggage locks have an indicator or search alert feature. It will alert you if your luggage has been opened and inspected by the TSA. Some of the locks have a red pop up indicator, while others have a window that changes from green to red.
What kind of lock can I put on my luggage?
Any kind of lock. However, TSA Approved luggage locks are the ideal option. You can find these locks with the Travel Sentry or Safe Skies logo (or just find the red diamond logo or a torch and a flame logo). With these locks, TSA doesn’t need to break yours if they need to open and inspect your luggage.
What triggers a TSA bag check?
If a baggage X-ray detects something suspicious in your bag and the security agent can’t determine what it is, a thorough search will take place. The specially trained TSA Officers will open your bag and search by hand in a special room under CCTV surveillance.
How does a TSA Approved luggage lock work?
Each TSA Approved lock with the Travel Sentry logo on it has a keyhole at the bottom. It allows the TSA agents to use their special TSA key to unlock your luggage lock. If you use the TSA Approve locks, they can easily open and inspect your luggage without cutting or breaking your luggage lock.
Can you lock your luggage on an airplane?
Yes, you can. Locking luggage is permitted by TSA, especially if you’re using TSA Approved best luggage security lock. If you don’t use a TSA Approved lock, there’s a chance your lock will be broken or cut for security purposes.
SureLock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks
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If strong and stylish security luggage locks are what you’re looking for, SureLock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks is one of your best choices. They are made of ultra-tough alloy body that protects your locks from the harshest of luggage handling. Plus, it also features a hardened stainless steel internal lock mechanism, which makes it rustproof. It’s available in several colors, including blue, orange, gray, black, and pink.
Have peace of mind whenever you’re traveling, thanks to the inspection indicator. A button will pop out of the top of the cable lock if your luggage has been opened and inspected by security agents. It helps you to make sure nothing has gone missing while you’re still at the airport. With large and easy-to-read numbers, you can set the combination and change it whenever you want.
What We Love
Easy to program luggage security lock with nice design.
Pros:
- 3-digit combination
- Ultra-tough alloy material
- Inspection indicator
- Large and easy to read numbers
- Various color options
Cons:
- Some said the lock could get stuck and won’t unlock
GIVERARE 4 Pack Combination Lock
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GIVERARE features a 4-digit lock that offers 10,000 combinations, which makes it safer than other 3-digit locks. That puts GIVERARE on our list of the best luggage security lock. Keep your belongings safe, and use the lock either for traveling, lockers, or even gates. Having this keyless lock, you’ll never worry about not being able to unlock it as you lost the key.
With a coated zinc alloy body and a sturdy hardened steel shackle, the lock is waterproof and rustproof. Furthermore, it’s very lightweight, with only 48gr (1.7oz) of weight. This compact and easy to use lock is available only in black. However, you’ll get a 90-day refund guarantee for every purchase.
What We Love
Multifunctional luggage security lock with a 4-digit combination.
Pros:
- Sturdy premium zinc alloy material
- Easy to set and lock
- 10,000 security combinations
- 90-day refund guarantee
- Weatherproof and lightweight
Cons:
- Some customers had difficulty to read the numbers
- Some couldn’t reset the combination
- Only has one color
Master Lock 4688D
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Traveling for work or leisure? Always keep your belongings safe with Master Lock 4688D. TSA approved, it can be used on your backpack, luggage, laptop bag, and suitcase. With this lock, security agents can inspect and relock your luggage without damaging the lock. Plus, it’s also perfect for storage case lock, tool lock, and so much more.
This lock features a 3-digit combination that is very easy to set. It’s constructed with a metal body, which makes it durable. Furthermore, the flexible vinyl covered cable allows you to slip the tip through the luggage lock socket easily. Choose your favorite from three available colors: blue, black, and red.
What We Love
Slender security luggage lock with flexible vinyl cable.
Pros:
- Very sturdy metal body
- Easy to set the combination
- Multi uses
- TSA approved
Cons:
- The combination numbers are hard to read
- Some had trouble in attaching and releasing the flex cable into the socket
Master Lock 4689Q
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Next on our list of the best luggage security lock is Master Lock 4689Q. Sold in 4-pack, you’ll get four padlocks and four keys on every purchase. Despite the keys are alike (each key opens all four locks), the convenient front access keyway allows for an easy opening.
The steel padlock shackle minimizes exposure and protects against cutter attacks. Besides, the lock shackle is made of steel. It’s available in blue, purple, pink, and silver. However, you don’t get to choose the color. It’s randomly selected at the time of shipment.
What We Love
Easy to use luggage security lock with convenient front access keyway.
Pros:
- Versatile padlock
- Bright colors
- Sturdy material (body & shackle)
Cons:
- There’s no spring-loaded clasp
- It doesn’t have an open indicator
Lumintrail TSA Approved 4 Digit Resettable Combination Lock
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Unlike most luggage security locks that have a 3-digit combination, Lumintrail Travel Luggage Lock features a 4-digit resettable combination lock. Not only does it offer more combinations, but it also makes setting up and changing your own code convenient. No need to worry about losing the key! So, it’s perfect to be used in backpacks, bags, suitcases, computer bags, and other things you need to lock.
Available in black, red, and silver, this easy to use security lock is made of coated steel and steel shackle. This combination makes it hard to be cut or broken. Every purchase includes 48-inch (122cm) cable, which makes it a unique combo lock. You can use the cable for securing your luggage to a fixed object, securing zip pulls, or securing all your bags together.
What We Love
Affordable and sturdy 4-digit luggage lock with coated steel cable.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Numbers are easy to see
- Several color options
- Steel shackle for strong cut resistance
Cons:
- The lock may reset easily
- There’s no open indicator
TravelMore Travel Combination Cable Luggage Locks
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If you want to have the best luggage security lock for stress-free traveling, TravelMore Travel Combination Cable Luggage Lock is one of your best options. You can use this stylish and sleek lock on a variety of items, such as a backpack, suitcase, duffle bag, and even for a locker. This padlock is available in 1, 2, 4, and 6 pack options with two colors available: black and orange.
Its body is made of zinc alloy that makes it durable and weatherproof. Meanwhile, the strong but flexible steel cable allows you to easily thread the cable through small zipper holes. Plus, it’s a travel sentry and TSA approved. So, TSA agents can open your lock, examine your luggage, and then relock it again without breaking it. The 3-digit lock allows you to set 1,000 your own combination. And you’ll appreciate the lifetime warranty for every purchase.
What We Love
Easy to use TSA approved luggage lock with a stylish and sleek design.
Pros:
- Available in several pack options
- Multiple uses
- Flexible steel cable
- 3 set digit combination
- Lifetime warranty
- Durable and weatherproof
Cons:
- The steel cable is easily cut with a scissor or wire cutter
- There’s no open alert/indicator
Forge TSA Approved Luggage Combination Lock – Open Alert Indicator
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With Forge TSA Approved Luggage Combination Lock – Open Alert Indicator, your luggage will be easily identified in the carousel thanks to its bright colors. The locks are available in blue, green, orange, black, purple, and silver. And you can find them in several pack options, from 1, 2, 4, and 6 packs.
Each security lock’s body is made of alloy and a hardened steel shackle. This combination makes the locks sturdy as well as durable. What’s more, this versatile lock ensures the protection of your belongings. If a security agent unlocks your luggage, you’ll know it through a red indicator that will pop-up under your steel shackle lock. Featuring a 3-digit high contrast dial combination, you can easily set up and change the combination.
What We Love
Lightweight security lock with high contrast dials.
Pros:
- Multiple bright colors
- Three-digit combination
- Zinc alloy material
- Lots of variety uses
- Hardened steel shackle
- Open alert indicator
Cons:
- Some experienced that the lock does not relock after being opened by TSA
- The lock is slightly larger and heavier
Fosmon TSA Approved Luggage Locks
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Next on our list of the best luggage security lock is Fosmon TSA Approved Luggage Locks. It’s suitable for bags of all sizes, making it the perfect travel companion. Either you’re traveling for a business trip or leisure, you can rely on this versatile lock. Constructed with zinc alloy, this lock can withstand the harshest baggage handling. So, your personal belongings will remain safe during travel.
With a 3-digit combination, you can change the combination multiple times. Travel Sentry and TSA approved, this lock allows security agents to inspect your luggage without damaging your lock or luggage. And you will know if your bag has been opened and inspected through the alert indicators that will turn red. Not only for luggage, but this easy to use lock is also perfect to be used for various lockers, such as gym, hostels, and water parks.
What We Love
Easy to use security luggage lock with alert indicator.
Pros:
- Durable zinc alloy material
- 3-dial combination with 1,000 multiple combinations
- Multiple usages
- Reasonable price
Cons:
- The silver-shine numbers may be difficult to see
- Only available in black
TravelMore Flexible Ultra Secure Mini Key Padlock
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TravelMore Flexible Ultra Secure Mini Key Padlock features a unique battery shape, making it one of the best luggage locks. It’s TSA approved, which allows security agents to unlock, inspect, and relock your luggage without cutting or damaging the lock. Unlike most security locks with combination, each lightweight lock comes with 2 keys.
As for the body, it’s made of high strength zinc alloy as well as flexible ultra-strong steel cable. Besides, it comes with a detachable wire stem that will easily slip through zipper pulls, backpacks, briefcases, and other carry-on items. For every purchase, you’ll get a lifetime warranty.
What We Love
Versatile luggage security lock with a unique design.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use padlock
- Strong and durable zinc alloy material
- Flexible cable
- Lifetime warranty
- Lock with keys
Cons:
- The keys are generic instead of individual keys.
Lewis N Clark Triple Security Lock
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Looking for the best luggage security lock with triple locking options? Then, Lewis N Clark Triple Security Lock can be your best option. First, it features Lockdown Lock, which allows you to lock your zipper pulls together. Second, you can also lock your luggage handle to the zipper pulls using its 3.15in (80mm) cable. And third, you can lock your bags to a fixed object using the 5.5in (140mm) cable.
With a resettable 3-dial combination, you are free to set your unique combination code. As for the material, it’s made of sturdy cast zinc alloy. Besides, the cable is made of plastic housing and braided steel. This sleek and compact lock will secure your luggage from any potential thieves.
What We Love
Sleek and compact luggage security lock with triple options locking.
Pros:
- Sturdy zinc alloy material
- Versatile lock
- 3-dial combination lock with resettable dial combination
- Two braided steel cables
Cons:
- The instruction on how to set the code is a bit complicated for some
- Only available in black
Forge Travel Luggage Locks Dimple Key
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Travel with confidence with the best luggage security lock wherever you’re traveling. Forge Travel Luggage Locks Dimple Key is a padlock with a key. Since it’s TSA approved, it gives you a secure feeling, knowing that your luggage will be relocked and is always protected. This lock is also suitable for purses, laptop bags, and gym or hostel locker.
This security lock is made of a lightweight allow frame, which makes it durable and rustproof. Meanwhile, its hardened steel shackle resists cutting and bending. Having issues remembering your lock’s combination code? Free yourself of this problem with this lock’s dimple key. It’s why Forge Travel Luggage Locks Dimple Key is one of the best luggage security locks. This lock is available in several color options, including orange, silver, blue, black, and pink. You can also choose from 2, 4, 6, and 8 available packs.
What We Love
A lightweight security lock with a zinc alloy frame and dimple key.
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Stainless-steel tumbler
- Durable and rustproof
- Versatile security lock
Cons:
- Relatively small
- Some experienced the lock easily breaks
- The keys are general, not individual
TravelMore Open Alert Indicator Luggage Locks
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You would know if your luggage had been inspected by a TSA agent with TravelMore Open Alert Indicator Luggage Locks. The red indicator under the steel shackle will pop up! So, you can check your belongings while you’re still at the airport. You can buy this combination TSA Approved padlock in 2, 4, or 6 pack options, which is available in orange and black.
Each lock is made of high-strength zinc alloy, hardened steel cable, and patented internal mechanism. Furthermore, the 3-digit combination allows you to set any of your own combinations, and no key is needed. Not only is it perfect for your luggage like a suitcase, backpack, and handbag, but it’s also great for gym locker and laptop bag. If you’re not satisfied with the product, TravelMore offers a lifetime warranty on every purchase.
What We Love
Luggage security locks with open alert indicator and relocks protection.
Pros:
- Zinc alloy casing
- Ultra-strong steel cable
- 3 digit combinations with 1,000 possible combinations
- Lifetime warranty
- Many different uses
Cons:
- You may have trouble seeing the numbers
- Some people couldn’t make it work
Tarriss TSA Luggage Lock With Search Alert
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If you’re looking for the best luggage security lock with the SearchAlert feature, Tarriss TSA Luggage Lock is your best choice. When TSA agents open your lock, the indicator will change from green to red. And they can open your lock without having to cut it off. It’s available in blue, black, and red. Besides, Tarriss offers a lifetime warranty.
This lock features large and easy-to-read numbers (white on black) with the 3-digit combination. So, you can set and reset any combination as you like easily and as often as you want. Even those who are shortsighted or nearsighted won’t have any issues using it. As for the material, it’s made of durable zinc alloy. What’s more, this reliable security lock also features a flexible steel cable.
What We Love
Sturdy security luggage lock with SearchAlert.
Pros:
- High strength zinc alloy material
- Nice steel cable with secure locking ends
- Visible numbers (white on black)
- Modern design
Cons:
- Resetting the combination with the lock on can be an issue
