By the Travel Gear Content Team. Updated 26 October 2026.
Quick answer: Choose a combination TSA-approved padlock for most trips. TSA approval matters when you're flying to or through the United States, because US security can cut off non-TSA locks. Look for a hardened steel shackle, a resettable combination and a compact size.
A travel lock is one of the most overlooked travel accessories. The right one deters opportunistic theft and tampering and gives you peace of mind. But there's one thing many travellers don't know, and it can cost them their lock.
The Most Important Thing: TSA Approval
If you're flying to or through the United States with checked luggage, your lock should be TSA-approved. TSA locks have a mechanism that lets US airport security officers open and re-lock your bag with a master key, without cutting your lock. Non-TSA locks may be cut off if security needs to inspect your bag, and you could arrive with no lock and a broken zip pull. Look for the TSA logo (a red diamond) on any lock you buy for travel to the US. For other destinations a standard lock works fine, though many travellers use TSA locks everywhere for convenience. Browse our full range of TSA-approved travel locks and travel safes.
Combination vs Key Locks
Combination Locks
- No key to lose
- Set your own code (use something memorable but not obvious)
- Slightly slower to open than key locks
- The most popular choice for travellers
Key Locks
- Faster to open
- Risk of losing the key (always carry a spare)
- Some TSA key locks come with multiple copies
- Better for frequent use, for example hostel lockers
Our suggestion for most travellers is a combination lock. There's no key to lose, and the small speed difference doesn't matter for occasional use.
Types of Travel Locks
Padlocks
The most versatile option, which works on luggage zips, hostel lockers, storage compartments and bike locks. Look for a hardened steel shackle that resists cutting.
Cable Locks
A flexible steel cable that threads through several zip pulls at once, securing the whole bag in one step. Useful for soft-sided luggage with multiple compartments.
Built-In Locks
Some hard-shell suitcases have TSA-approved combination locks built into the frame. Convenient, but not transferable between bags.
What to Look For
- TSA approval (red diamond logo) if you're travelling to or through the US
- A hardened steel shackle that resists cutting
- A 4-digit combination, which gives more combinations than 3 digits
- A resettable combination, so you can change the code if it's compromised
- A compact, lightweight size, because you may carry several locks
Where to Use Locks
- Checked luggage on international flights
- Hostel lockers (a key lock is faster)
- Hotel room safes (if the safe has a hasp)
- Caravan and campervan storage compartments
- Bike locks at your destination
Pairing Locks with Anti-Theft Bags
For carry-on bags in busy tourist areas, pair your lock with an anti-theft backpack that has lockable zips. Slash-resistant materials plus lockable zips can make opportunistic theft harder in crowded places like markets, public transport and tourist attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can airport security cut my TSA lock?
That's what TSA approval is designed to avoid. US security officers have master keys that open TSA locks without damage, while non-TSA locks may be cut.
How many locks do I need?
At minimum, one per checked bag. If you're staying in hostels, bring two or three extra key locks for lockers. A cable lock helps secure several zips on a soft-sided bag.
Are built-in suitcase locks as secure as padlocks?
Built-in TSA combination locks are convenient and fine for most travel. Dedicated padlocks with hardened steel shackles offer a little more resistance to cutting, but for most destinations the difference is small.
For more on luggage security, see our best TSA locks for international travel in 2026 and our anti-theft travel security guide.