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Best TSA Locks for International Travel 2026: What Australians Need to Know

Best TSA Locks for International Travel 2026: What Australians Need to Know

By the Travel Gear Content Team. Updated 26 October 2026.

Quick answer: A TSA lock is a luggage lock that US airport security can open with a master key without cutting it. You should use one if you're flying to or through the United States. For other destinations, any combination or key lock works. A combination TSA padlock with a hardened steel shackle suits most travellers.

If you're travelling to or through the United States, a TSA-approved lock is a good idea. Without one, US airport security may cut your lock to inspect your bag, leaving your luggage unsecured for the rest of the journey. Here's what Australian travellers need to know.

What Is a TSA Lock?

A TSA lock is a luggage lock that US airport security can open with a master key, without breaking or cutting it. TSA agents are authorised to inspect checked baggage, and if they can't open your lock, they may cut it off.

TSA-approved locks are identified by a red diamond logo on the lock body, which shows the lock is part of the Travel Sentry® or Safe Skies® programme and can be opened by TSA master keys.

Do I Need a TSA Lock?

You should use a TSA lock if you're:

  • Flying to the United States
  • Transiting through a US airport, even if the USA isn't your final destination

For other destinations, a standard combination or key lock gives the same level of security without the TSA feature. Many travellers use TSA locks for all travel for convenience.

Types of TSA Locks

Combination TSA Locks

The most popular type. You set a 3 or 4-digit combination and open the lock without a key. There's no key to lose, and you can reset the combination. Available as padlocks for zips or built into luggage.

Keyed TSA Locks

Traditional key-operated locks with TSA master key access. You need to keep track of the key.

Cable TSA Locks

A flexible steel cable that threads through several zip pulls, securing them together. One cable lock can secure all the zips on a bag at once.

Built-In TSA Locks

Many quality suitcases include a built-in TSA combination lock in the frame. It's convenient and removes the need for a separate padlock. Check that your luggage has this feature if you travel to the USA often.

How to Set a TSA Combination Lock

  1. Open the lock using the default combination (usually 0-0-0).
  2. Find the reset button (usually a small pin hole on the side).
  3. Press and hold the reset button with a pen or pin.
  4. Set your new combination by rotating the dials.
  5. Release the reset button.
  6. Test the new combination before closing your bag.

Choose a combination you'll remember but that isn't obvious (avoid 1-2-3 or your birth year). Write it down and store it separately from your luggage.

TSA Locks for Different Bag Types

Hard-Shell Suitcases

Many quality hard-shell suitcases include a built-in TSA lock. If yours doesn't, use a TSA padlock through the zip pulls. Browse our check-in luggage range, and check each product page for a built-in TSA lock.

Soft-Shell Suitcases and Bags

Use a TSA padlock or cable lock through the zip pulls. A cable lock is useful for bags with several compartments because it can secure all the zips at once.

Backpacks

A small TSA padlock through the main compartment zip pulls adds security in accommodation and airports. For anti-theft backpacks, the lockable zip system is often built in.

Beyond TSA Locks: A Complete Luggage Security Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Will TSA cut my lock if I use a TSA-approved lock?

TSA approval is designed to prevent that. TSA agents have master keys that open TSA-approved locks without damage. If you use a non-TSA lock, they may cut it off to inspect your bag.

Do I need a TSA lock for Australian domestic flights?

No. TSA locks are for travel to or through the USA. For Australian domestic flights, any combination or key lock works. Many travellers use TSA locks for all travel for simplicity.

Can TSA open any lock with their master key?

No. TSA master keys open only locks that are part of the Travel Sentry® or Safe Skies® programmes, identified by the red diamond logo. Other locks may be cut off if TSA needs to inspect your bag.

How secure are TSA locks against theft?

TSA combination locks are a reasonable deterrent against casual theft. They're not high-security locks, and a determined thief with tools can defeat them. Their main purpose is to let TSA inspect your bag while keeping it closed during normal handling.

What if I forget my TSA lock combination?

Most TSA padlocks can be reset if you can open them first. If you're locked out, contact the manufacturer, because some offer a reset service. For built-in suitcase locks, the manufacturer may be able to help.

Are TSA locks required for checked baggage?

Not required, but recommended for travel to or through the USA. Without a TSA lock, your bag may be opened and left unsecured if TSA needs to inspect it.

Browse our full range of TSA-approved locks, including combination, cable and keyed options.

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