Types of Luggage Locks
When traveling, keeping your luggage secure is a top priority. Luggage locks are an effective way to prevent theft of your belongings. There are several main types of luggage locks to consider:
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Padlocks
Padlocks are a classic luggage lock option. They have a shackle that loops through luggage zipper pulls and then clicks into the padlock body to close. Padlocks for luggage come in a variety of styles:
- Keyed padlocks - You use a small key to lock and unlock them
- Combination padlocks - You set a numeric combination to open them
- TSA-approved padlocks - Allow TSA agents to open your luggage with a master key if needed for inspection
Pros: Simple, versatile, inexpensive
Cons: Keys can get lost or forgotten
Combination Locks
Built-in combination locks are integrated directly into luggage. To operate them, you set a numeric combination and scramble the dials to lock the luggage. Common types include:
- TSA-approved locks - Allow TSA access if needed
- Non-TSA locks - Cannot be opened by TSA, so your bag may be searched forcefully
Pros: Convenient, no separate key or lock needed
Cons: Dials can jam or fail over time
Cable Locks
Flexible steel cables with a lock on one end are a lighter weight option. You wrap the cable around luggage handles or bars and insert the end into the lock. TSA-approved versions allow security agents access.
Pros: Lightweight, compact
Cons: Can potentially be cut by thieves
When selecting luggage locks, durability, ease of use, and TSA compliance should be considered. Test locks before travel to ensure they work smoothly. With the right locks, you can travel at ease knowing your belongings are secure.
Key Features for Luggage Locks
A good luggage lock is a travel essential for keeping your belongings secure. When evaluating locks, here are some key features to consider:
Durability
A lock's strength and resistance to tampering are important. Look for:
- Sturdy metals like brass, steel, or titanium
- Thick shackle diameter of at least 5mm
- Weather resistance if checking bags
- Pick-resistant designs
Avoid locks that feel lightweight or flimsy, which can be easier to cut or snap.
TSA Compliance
For U.S. travel, opt for TSA-approved locks that airport security can open if needed for inspection. Acceptable options have:
- A TSA logo on the lock
- Travel Sentry®, Saflok®, or Surelock® compliance
Non-TSA locks may be cut off by agents if inspected.
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Ease of Use
Convenient, smooth operation is key. Consider:
- Keyed - Can keys open effortlessly? Are spare keys available?
- Combination - Are dials easy to scramble and set? Are combinations resettable?
- Operation - Do shackles glide easily into place? Can buttons or switches fail?
Test locks extensively before travel to ensure easy operation to prevent headaches down the road.
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Fit
Your lock must properly fit your luggage's zippers, loops and pulls. Determine:
- Shackle opening width - Wide enough to accommodate zips and pulls?
- Shackle diameter - Slender enough to thread through loops and holes?
- Lock body size - Compact enough not to overhang?
Bring your unlocked luggage to test various locks for good fit.
Additional Features
Look for extra characteristics like:
- Rekeyable - Ability to change keys if needed
- LED lights - Illumination for seeing dials at night
- Scanner protection - Blocks RFID readers from scanning passports
The right luggage locks offer both security and ease of use for stress-free travel.
Using Luggage Locks on Your Next Trip
Luggage locks are essential for securing your belongings while traveling. Follow these tips for properly using locks on your next trip:
Choosing Locks
Select TSA-approved locks if flying within or to/from the United States. Otherwise, any high-quality padlock, combination lock, or built-in luggage lock will work:
- TSA-approved - Have TSA logo or Travel Sentry®, Saflok®, or Surelock® compliance
- Non-TSA - Avoid these for U.S. travel as TSA may cut them off
- Combination - Dial or push-button locks, often built into luggage
- Padlocks - Keyed or combination padlocks
Opt for durable, pick-resistant locks with 5mm+ shackles. Purchase spares in case of loss or failure.
Locking Zippers
For padlocks and combination locks:
- Open luggage fully and pack items tightly so zippers close smoothly.
- Thread shackle through both zipper pulls on main compartment.
- If pockets/dividers have secondary zippers, thread shackle through these as well.
- Click shackle into padlock or set combination to lock.
Locking Built-in Locks
For combination locks integrated into luggage:
- Set combination prior to packing.
- Pack tightly then close luggage.
- Scramble dials to set combination and lock.
Double-Checking
After locking, verify:
- Zippers are fully closed.
- Lock shackle is fully inserted and secure.
- Lock is properly set and locked.
- Luggage cannot be opened without unlocking.
Gently shake or tug on zippers to confirm. Unlock and relock if issues.
Keys and Combinations
Keep keys and combos secure but accessible:
- Carry keys and combos separately from luggage.
- Memorize combos instead of carrying codes.
- Keep copies of keys/combos with trusted people at home.
With preparation and proper technique, you can use locks to travel with peace of mind.
Keeping Luggage Safe in Hotels, Hostels & Airbnbs
When traveling and staying in hotels, hostels, Airbnbs, and other accommodations, keeping your luggage and belongings secure should be a priority. Here are some tips to ensure safety:
Use Locks Properly
Always lock your luggage, whether in your room or in storage areas:
- Lock zippers together with padlocks or built-in combination locks
- Double check locks are properly fastened and set
- Never leave luggage unlocked in your room or common areas
Ask About Security
Inquire with staff about property security:
- Are there safety deposit boxes or locker options for valuables?
- Are there luggage storage areas or closets that are secured?
- Are there in-room safes or locking drawers/cabinets?
- Is there video surveillance on the premises?
Use In-Room Safes
Keep cash, passports, and small valuables locked in room safes or locking drawers when possible. Get directions from staff for operating them.
Conceal Belongings
Hide any tempting valuables like laptops and portable electronics when leaving your room:
- Keep devices in locked suitcases
- Cover with clothes or blankets
- Close curtains or put in drawers
Choose Rooms Wisely
Opt for rooms that increase security wherever possible:
- Upper floor rooms- harder access from windows
- Interior hallway rooms - Added privacy
- Corner rooms - More limited access
Avoid ground floor rooms accessible from the street or parking areas when possible.
Notify Staff of Issues
Alert accommodation staff if you have any security concerns such as:
- Faulty or broken locks, safes, doors, or windows
- Suspicious persons near rooms or loitering on premises
- Signs of tampering or unauthorized entry when you return
Being cautious helps ensure peace of mind during your travels.
Top Luggage Lock Recommendations
Securing your luggage with a high-quality lock provides essential peace of mind when traveling. Here are top picks across different categories:
Budget
Affordable locks under $10 that still offer good security:
- Wordlock SLWBL Combo Padlock - Durable zinc alloy body. 4-digit customizable combo.
- Master Lock 151D Padlock - Solid brass padlock with included keys.
- Lewis N. Clark TSA Combination Cable Lock - Lightweight cable lock with 3-digit combo.
TSA-Approved
TSA-accepted locks allowing airport security access:
- Acrodo TSA Combination Lock - Zinc alloy with 3-digit TSA combo. Weather resistant.
- TravelMore TSA Lock - Hardened steel with inspection indicator. Keyed or combo.
- Master Lock 4401D - Sturdy body with dual locking options. Keyed or combo.
High Security
Heavy duty, cut-proof locks providing maximum protection:
- TiLock Titanium Padlock - Hardened titanium alloy. Pick and cut resistant.
- Shengda Stainless Steel Padlock - 10mm double shackle. Keys and combo.
- ABUS 37RK/80 - Hardened steel with 10 mm shackle. Keyed disc cylinder lock.
Built-In Combination
Integrated locks with numeric combos:
- Samsonite Luggage Locks - Preset or user-set 3-dial combo.
- Delsey Securitech - TSA-approved built-in lock slides over zippers.
- Victorinox Werks Traveler 5.0 - Customizable 5-number combo on dual-access luggage.
Browse top brands and read reviews to choose secure, convenient locks that fit within your budget.
Beyond Luggage Locks: Other Security Options
While locks are essential for securing luggage, there are also some supplementary options to consider:
Luggage Straps
Sturdy straps wrap around bags to hold zippers closed and prevent access to contents and pockets. They attach with plastic clasps or combination/TSA-approved locks.
- Pros: Add extra layer of security, usable on bags without locks
- Cons: Can be cut if not using metal reinforced straps
Zipper Pull Ties
Plastic cable ties or zip tie seals thread through luggage zipper pulls to keep them cinched together. Some have small locks attached.
- Pros: Very inexpensive deterrent
- Cons: Can be snipped easily
Zipper Pull Ribbons
Ribbons or strings loop through zippers and tie together to keep closed. May also have plastic snap or slide clasp.
- Pros: Simple, easy to use option
- Cons: Not very secure, can untie or cut ribbons
Travel Security Bags
Reinforced, lockable bags act as a sleeve to hold and protect luggage. Made of cut-proof materials with straps and padlock hasps.
- Pros: Prevent access to entire bag
- Cons: Bulky and heavier to transport
Using straps, ties, ribbons or bags along with locks provides added peace of mind when traveling.
Avoiding Problems with Luggage Locks
Luggage locks can encounter issues that render them ineffective. Learn how to prevent problems:
Lost Keys
For keyed padlocks, keys getting misplaced or left behind is a common headache. Prevent this by:
- Carrying spare keys in a separate place from your luggage.
- Keeping a spare set of keys at home as backup.
- Using combination locks instead of keyed locks.
Forgotten Combinations
If using combination locks, forgetting the code can mean not being able to access your luggage. Avoid this by:
- Selecting an easy-to-remember combination.
- Storing the combo in your phone or written down securely.
- Using a TSA-approved lock so agents can open the bag if needed.
Jammed Locks
Locks can become stuck or refuse to open due to issues like:
- Debris or dust inside the lock mechanism
- Broken or corroded internal parts
- Bag zippers misaligned
Prevent this by:
- Choosing high quality, durable locks.
- Cleaning locks and lubricating regularly.
- Being gentle and not forcing locks open.
Investing in good locks and taking measures to care for them will help avoid headaches!
Buying Luggage Locks with Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime provides fast, free shipping and other benefits that can come in handy when purchasing luggage locks. Follow these tips to use Prime perks when buying locks:
Find Prime Eligible Locks
Search for luggage locks and filter for "Prime Eligible" items. This ensures fast, free 1-2 day shipping with no minimum order size. Look for the Prime tag to confirm eligibility.
Compare Lock Types
Browse Prime selections of combination, TSA-approved, and padlock styles. View product images and details to compare materials, sizes, security levels, colors, and other features.
Read Reviews
Check Prime customer reviews and ratings to gauge real-world quality, durability, and ease of use. Sort reviews by recent, verified purchase, star rating, and featured to dive deeper.
Join Prime
If not a Prime member, sign up for a free 30-day trial to access fast shipping and other Prime perks. Or pay $14.99/month or $139/year for an annual membership.
Add to Cart
When ready to purchase, simply click "Add to Cart" on your chosen locks. Items from different sellers can be combined into one order.
Check Out
Proceed through checkout and select a shipping address. Prime members can choose free one-day, two-day, or standard shipping speed options.
Track Shipping
Once your order ships, track its status through account order history and delivery details. For Prime orders, locks should arrive within the promised 1-2 day timeframe.
With its vast selection and fast shipping, Amazon Prime is a great way to conveniently purchase quality luggage locks for your next trip.
Luggage Locks, Tsa
TSA-approved locks are essential for securing your luggage while allowing TSA officers easy access during the screening process. These locks can be opened with master keys, preventing the need for locks to be cut off or for suitcases to be damaged. TSA-approved locks are recognized by the TSA and can be found at most airports and travel stores nationwide. The Travel Sentry program is approved in 29 countries covering 600 airports and 1.8 billion passengers annually. TSA-approved locks are available in various types, including combination travel cable locks, 4-digit combination steel padlocks, and resettable combination luggage locks. The Master Lock 4680D TSA Approved Resettable Combination Luggage Lock is a popular choice, featuring a 1-3/16 in. (30 mm.) wide metal body for durability. Other popular TSA-approved locks include the Master Lock 4683Q Keyed Luggage Locks, 4-Pack, and the Airbolt Smart Travel Lock.
TSA Approved Locks Walmart
Walmart offers a variety of TSA-approved luggage locks to keep your belongings safe and secure during travel. You can find TSA luggage locks in the Travel Accessories section of Walmart's website, including products such as Protege 2PK LOCK WITH KEYS and Protege 3 DIAL CABLE LOCK. Walmart also offers TSA padlocks, such as the AMIR TSA Locks for Luggage TSA Approved Lock 3 Digit Combination Padlock Security. In addition, Walmart has a selection of travel padlocks, including the Brink's 28mm TSA Approved Luggage Lock with Flexible Shackle and the Master Lock 4688T Set Your Own Combination Tsa-accepted Cable Padlock, Assorted Colors, 2 Pack. You can also find unisex TSA luggage locks, such as the FORGE TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks for Suitcase, Toolbox, Bags, Black 2 Pack, Alloy Body with Lifetime Warranty. Finally, Walmart offers airport locks for luggage, including the FORGE TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks for Suitcase, Toolbox, Bags, Black 2 Pack, Alloy Body with Lifetime Warranty.
