Best Luggage Locks

If you’re in a hurry and are here to find out what the best luggage lock is then we recommend the Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks as the best one.

If you’re someone that spends much of your time traveling, then you’re most likely aware of how annoying it can be to constantly have to watch your belongings at the airport. When traveling, you encounter a wide diversity of people, which can be nerve-wracking, or keeping you awake because you can’t trust anyone that you don’t know. Because of that, you constantly have to keep watch for your belongings. 

This can be made easy for you if you have one of the best luggage locks. Luggage locks are classified as locks that are specifically designed in order to keep the contents of your bag safe from other people that you don’t know. Given their beneficial nature, you should consider investing in a luggage lock. Here is a guide that can help you review information to assist in your buying process, and there are even five of the best luggage locks on the market included – they’ve come a long way from what you may picture of a travel lock. 

Here are the best luggage locks we will be reviewing:

• Desired Tools TSA Combination Locks
• Master Lock Black Padlocks
• Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks
• Talonport Keyless TSA Approved Locks
• Forge TSA Approved Ultra-secure Locks

Different Types of Luggage Locks

Key locks

Just as their name suggests, key locks are able to function by locking and unlocking while using a key. These mechanisms are classified as the most traditional types of luggage locks, and they require that you keep the key on you in order to open and access your items. 

Combination locks

Combination locks, or dial locks, are defined as locks that use a number combination of anywhere between three to five numbers, and they don’t require you to keep a key or anything on you. All you’re required to do is remember the number combination in order to manually punch it on the dial to gain access to the contents of your luggage. These are increasingly popular due to their convenience. 

Cable Locks

These locks are more versatile than other types of locks since they can be used for a variety of different situations. They come with a semi-flexible cable instead of the standard metal clip that most other locks are produced with. This cable helps the lock weigh less overall, so you don’t have to worry about the lock adding extra weight to your luggage or making the handle drag downwards. Given their weight and flexibility, you can use cable locks for locking practically anything, such as gym lockers, duffel bags, backpacks, or even some room doors. 

Retractable cable locks

Similarly to cable locks, these devices are able to act in the same way, except they offer a retractable design. More specifically, retractable cable locks are capable of retracting inside of itself, so it eliminates the opportunity for people to simply cut the cable and gain access to your belongings. These types of locks aren’t as versatile since they aren’t able to fit around every object for security. 

Benefits of Luggage Locks

Versatility

Since luggage locks function by a connector being installed on the zippers, this function can lock a wide variety of different things. For instance, you can use cable luggage locks to lock doors, lockers, duffel bags, purses, or even backpacks. Because of that, you can use your luggage lock in order to secure a variety of different things. 

Protect and Deter

Clearly, luggage locks are able to protect the contents of your bag from being easily accessed by other people around the airport and likely your hotel. While you’re traveling, you’re going to come into contact with a wide range of people that you’re not familiar with. Because of that, you’ll want to lock your bag when you’re around people that you don’t know to deter any bad intent. 

If you’re serious about protecting your items when traveling, check out these two articles as well:
Best Zipperless Luggage
Best Anti-Theft Backpack

Prevents Opening

Perhaps not the clearest benefit of utilizing luggage locks is the notion that they prevent your bag from opening while in transit. Sometimes, depending on how rough the handlers are, some bags end up opening while they’re being transported from different locations. Because of that, locking your luggage can definitely prevent this from occurring. 

Let’s You Rest Easy

By knowing that your luggage is locked and that no one can get into gives you the ability to rest easier. You don’t have to keep your eye on your bag 100% of the time that you’re traveling, and you don’t have to worry about any unauthorized people snooping through your bag. 

Things to Consider Before Purchasing

Zipper Types

It’s important for you to consider the specific type of the zippers on your luggage since the lock that you have will need to fit inside something of the zipper. Zippers often come with a built-in loop for a lock where others simply have room in the handle to loop a lock through. Ensure that your zippers have one of these options otherwise you won’t be able to fit a lock. Also, if you purchase a lock that doesn’t fit through your zipper, then you won’t be able to use the lock at all.

Given that, make sure you know the size of the lock that you’re planning on purchasing. 

Weight of Lock

Given the strict guidelines about the weight of your luggage, it’s important that you consider how much your lock weighs. If you purchase a lock for your luggage that’s heavy, then this will ultimately add to the bag’s overall weight and in some cases, it may end up costing you additional money for overweight charges. It may not be much but every ounce can make a difference in some cases.

Because of that, you should make sure that the lock you’re purchasing is produced with a lightweight material. Having a heavy lock is also not recommended because it will likely bang hard on other surrounding items, causing damage to not only the other objects but also damage to the lock itself. 

TSA Regulations and Guidelines (US citizens and travelers only)

You should consider whether the certain type of lock that you’re interested in is regulated by the TSA. Not even that, but the lock should at least be able to be accepted by the TSA. If not, then the TSA at the airport has the ability to open your bag and remove and destroy the lock themselves, since they’ll claim that the bag needs to be inspected. 

To make it simple, you’ll want to purchase a luggage lock that’s classified as “TSA-Approved”. By doing so, you can be sure that the TSA members won’t flag you down and look through your bag in front of you. They’ll recognize these locks and you won’t have to worry about any confrontations. All recommended travel locks below are TSA-Approved apart from one! 

Functionality

It’s important to consider how your lock is able to function since you won’t want a lock that’s too difficult to lock and unlock. Most people prefer to use a combination lock but if you’re good at keeping track of where things are then perhaps a key lock will be just fine. 

Best Luggage Locks

Desired Tools TSA Combination Luggage Locks

These Desired Tools Luggage Locks, firstly, are TSA-Approved and are great quality combination locks. You can choose a 4-digit combination code that sets the lock mechanisms and that’s it! But requiring four digits in order to unlock the device, this lock takes up to 10 minutes longer to break into, since there are over 10,000 combinations that could possibly open the device. 

Furthermore, since this device is classified as a TSA-Approved lock, you don’t have to worry about the TSA breaking the lock in order to inspect the contents of your bag. This lock is also easy to use since the dials are clear to see and easy to maneuver in order to set or enter your 4-digit pin. 

>>Find the Desired Tools TSA Combination Locks on Amazon<<

Pros:

• Great quality combination locks and you get 2, one for your checked case and on for your carry-on.
• TSA-Approved meaning no hassle at the airport if the TSA wants to check inside.
• Combination lock requires 4 digits, maybe harder to remember but way more secure than 3 digits.
• Offered with a 1-year warranty.
• Lots of great colors to choose from to match with your case or your personal travel style.

Cons:

• Metal clamp, so they’re heavier and less flexible than other locks

>>Find the Desired Tools TSA Combination Locks on Amazon<<

Master Lock Black Padlock with Key

This Master Lock set comes in a 4-pack of four small locks, which is great if you’re traveling with multiple bags or people and want to make sure that they are all securely protected. Not only that, but these locks are constructed with a black vinyl-covered aluminum material that’s resistant to scratches. 

Furthermore, these four padlocks offer four-pin cylinder and dual-locking levers that require a large amount of clever, yet time-consuming work in order to break into. These locks can be used both indoors and outdoors since the metal has a protective covering around it. THESE LOCKS ARE NOT TSA-APPROVED.

>>Find the Master Lock Black Padlocks on Amazon<<

Pros:

• A trusted name in the world of securing and safeguarding.
• The set comes with 4 key locks for multiple bags.
• Features a four-pin cylinder mechanism that makes it very difficult to tamper with.
• Scratch and corrosion resistant, can be used both indoors or outdoors.
• Small size means they can likely fit into more places than many other types of lock.

Cons:

• Not TSA-Approved

>>Find the Master Lock Black Padlocks on Amazon<<

Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks

These set of 2 Sure Locks are produced with a zinc alloy material that you don’t have to worry about rusting, corroding, or scratching from external objects. This product comes with two cable locks that each contain a durable and cut-resistant cable. 

Not only that, but these locks are lightweight and durable since they’re produced with hardened stainless steel construction. Since they’re TSA-Approved, you don’t have to worry about any TSA members breaking the lock when they inspect your baggage. And since they are cable locks, they will fit into and secure almost anything.

>>Find the Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks on Amazon<<

Pros:

• Set of 2 cable locks, made from a cut-resistant material.
• Includes an inspection indicator to alert you of any wrong-doing or tampering.
• Cables make these locks extra flexible and able to attach to many cases.
• Easy to read numbers for your unlocking and accessing convenience.
• TSA-Approved to avoid any hassle at the airport.

Cons:

• Can seem difficult to get the locks to open

>>Find the Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks on Amazon<<

Talonport Keyless TSA Approved Luggage Locks

Now for something completely different! These Talonport luggage locks are classified as “card locks” that come with cards to easily open and unlock the devices – you swipe any of the 4 cards up the side of the lock to gain access. These 4 locks are made of a strong metal so you don’t have to worry about anyone gaining access to your bag by trying to break the casing of these locks. 

In addition to that, these locks are non-pickable (unlike key locks) and don’t require you to remember a combination (like combination locks). Rather, they require that you keep track of the cards, which you can easily place in your wallet. AND if you ever lose all of your cards or your locks get cut, they’ll send you replacements free for life!

>>Find the Talonport Keyless TSA Approved Locks on Amazon<<

Pros:

• NON-PICKABLE and NO COMBINATION REQUIRED
• Comes with 4 different cards to unlock the devices, 2 wallet size and 2 for your keys.
• Free replacements for all parts for life.
• TSA-Approved to help avoid any holdups at the airport.
• Simply requires tracking of the cards.

Cons:

• Perhaps a little too un-traditional for the taste of some travelers.

>>Find the Talonport Keyless TSA Approved Locks on Amazon<<

Forge TSA Approved Ultra-secure Luggage Locks

These Forge padlocks are TSA-Approved and are composed of a durable zinc alloy construction. Aside from the durable construction in the body, the shackles are produced with a durable metal material that makes the locks difficult to break into. 

Moreover, this product comes with four separate locks that you can utilize if you’re traveling with multiple cases or people since you now have the ability to lock all of the bags at once. Additionally, each of the locks is able to function by using all of the keys, so you don’t have to keep track of four separate ones. But beware of cheeky younger siblings breaking into your stuff!

>>Find the Forge TSA Approved Ultra-secure Locks on Amazon<<

Pros:

• This set includes 4 locks and 4 keys – each key works on every lock.
• Four great colors in the set and lots of other styles and designs are also available.
• Durable zinc alloy construction makes these locks very difficult to break into.
• TSA-Approved to help you and all of your cases breeze through check-in.

Cons:

• The multiple colors used may not be for everyone.

>>Find the Forge TSA Approved Ultra-secure Locks on Amazon<<

Conclusion

Overall, each of these luggage locks gives you the ability to successfully lock your luggage and prevent other unauthorized people from gaining access to your belongings. Traveling secure is traveling smart. Each of these locks are easy to use and as well as protecting your items can also prevent your bag from opening while it’s in transit.

With all of these great options, it may be tough to choose so we will recommend the Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks. Just as secure as all of the other locks, in a handy pack of two, and with the flexibility of a cable locking system. 

Cable locks are arguably the most difficult devices to break into, since the cable can’t be cut with ordinary scissors and the lock can’t be picked. Not only that, but you can easily set up a certain passcode composed of three digits, so you don’t have to carry around a key or a card in order to unlock these devices. Given that, you should grab the Sure Lock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks.