Written by the Travel Gear team. Last updated: May 2026.
A travel lock is one of the most overlooked but important travel accessories you can buy. The right lock protects your luggage from opportunistic theft, deters tampering, and gives you peace of mind throughout your journey. But there's one critical thing most travellers don't know — and it can cost them their lock.
The Most Important Thing: TSA Approval
If you're flying internationally with checked luggage, your lock must be TSA-approved. TSA locks have a special mechanism that allows airport security officers to open and re-lock your bag using a master key — without cutting or damaging your lock. Non-TSA locks will be cut off if security needs to inspect your bag. You'll arrive at your destination with no lock and a broken zipper pull. Always look for the TSA logo (a red diamond) on any lock you buy for checked luggage. 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
- 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 high-frequency use (e.g. hostel lockers)
Our recommendation: combination locks for most travellers — no key to lose, and the slight speed difference is irrelevant for occasional use.
Types of Travel Locks
Padlocks
The most versatile option — works on luggage zippers, 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 multiple zipper pulls simultaneously, 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-approved (red diamond logo)
- Hardened steel shackle — resists bolt cutters
- 4-digit combination — more combinations than 3-digit
- Resettable combination — change the code if compromised
- Compact and lightweight — you'll carry multiple locks
Where to Use Locks
- Checked luggage on all international flights
- Hostel lockers (key lock preferred for speed)
- 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 zippers built in. The combination of slash-resistant materials and lockable zippers makes opportunistic theft significantly harder in crowded environments like markets, public transport, and tourist attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can airport security cut my TSA lock?
No — that's the whole point of TSA approval. Security officers have master keys that open TSA locks without damage. Only non-TSA locks get cut.
How many locks do I need?
At minimum, one per checked bag. If you're staying in hostels, bring 2–3 additional key locks for lockers. A cable lock is useful for securing multiple zippers on a soft-sided bag.
Are built-in suitcase locks as secure as padlocks?
Built-in TSA combination locks are convenient and secure enough for most travel. Dedicated padlocks with hardened steel shackles offer slightly more resistance to cutting, but for most destinations the difference is negligible.
For more on luggage security, see our best TSA locks for international travel in 2026 and our anti-theft travel security guide.