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How do you unlock a TSA lock if you forgot the combination?

December 12, 2022 // By Lois Alter Mark

By Lois Alter Mark Travel Expert December 12, 2022

— Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Using a TSA lock on your suitcase is a great way to keep your belongings safe while making it easy for TSA officers to do their job. But, because the lock requires a combination, it gives you something else to remember in addition to all those passwords floating around in your head. And that means there’s a chance you’re eventually going to forget it.

Don’t worry. We’ll show you how to open a TSA lock when you forget the combination, so you can get on with your travels even when the code escapes you.

What is a TSA lock, anyway?

A TSA lock is one to which only TSA officials have a key. You set the combination yourself and, if a TSA agent has to look inside your bag because they see something suspicious on the scanner, it can be easily opened with their master key. If you use a lock that’s not TSA-approved, the agent’s only way to get in is to cut the lock or the bag itself, possibly damaging it.

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Many suitcases already come with built-in TSA locks but, if they don’t, you can buy one separately.

How to open your TSA lock and reset the combination

If you forget your TSA lock combination, there are a few methods you’ll want to try to open it. And, yes, you do have to open it before you can reset the combination. Because there’s no standard solution for this, you’ll have to experiment to see which one works for you.

Since different locks require different processes, the most effective first step may be to call the luggage or lock company itself (or check their website) for brand-specific instructions.

Travel Sentry, whose red diamond logo certifies that a lock is TSA-approved, recommends trying every possible combination from 000-999, starting with 000, 001, 002 … and working your work to 999. Although, admittedly, this seems time-consuming, they assure it should take 30 minutes or less, especially if the first number is a 0, 1 or 2 (something to keep in mind when you’re coming up with a new combination).

If the idea of that is overwhelming and your luggage features a built-in TSA lock, you can try this:

• Use a safety pin to locate the metal or plastic cylinder on the right side of the first dial. The flashlight and camera on your phone can help you zoom in on it.
• Turn the dial and, with the safety pin, look for an indentation or gap in the cylinder. Leave the dial at that number.
• Repeat the process for the other two dials.
• If the lock doesn’t open, turn all three dials down one number.
• If the lock still doesn’t open, keep turning all three dials down one number at a time until it does.

Here’s another method that has worked for travelers with TSA padlocks:

• Put pressure on the locking mechanism by pushing the button or pulling on the lock.
• Turn the first dial slowly until you hear an audible click, which signals it’s the correct number.
• Repeat the process for the next two dials.
• When all three numbers are correct, the lock will open.

If you forget your combination while the lock is still open, all you have to do is reset it with a new combination. Again, you may be best off checking the brand’s website for individual instructions, but you can reset most freestanding locks this way:

• Set each dial to 0 so it reads 000.
• Rotate the shackle 90 degrees from the lock position.
• Press the shackle and keep it down while you set your three-digit combination.
• Release the shackle and turn it back to the lock position.

To reset most built-in locks, simply slide the lock button in the direction of the arrow, set your new code and release the button.

Is it really worth using a TSA lock?

Using a TSA lock is totally a matter of personal preference. Many travelers feel safer knowing that their luggage is secure while others don’t want to have to worry about remembering one more thing. The fact is, of the 1.4 million checked bags the TSA screens daily, only about 5% of checked bags are actually opened by agents for further inspection.

Our advice? Use a TSA lock and store your combination safely in your phone for all-around peace of mind.

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About Lois Alter Mark

Lois Alter Mark is an award-winning travel and lifestyle writer who also writes regularly for Forbes and Reader's Digest. She writes about everything from luxury cruises and spas to quirky restaurants and street art. A former New Yorker, Lois now lives in San Diego where she's turned into a weather wimp and is still searching for a good slice of pizza. 

Read more about Lois Alter Mark here.

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Also Recently Published

What To Do When Your Luggage Lock Won’t Open – Lost Secrets

I was running behind packing for a trip. My plane was leaving that very afternoon, and I was sure I had plenty of time to pack. Lo and behold, when I pulled my suitcase out, the lock wouldn’t open. There went my plenty of time to pack. I didn’t know what to do, but do you know what to do when your luggage lock won’t open?

Trust me, no one wants this to happen and miss a flight. I mean, I have tons of experience with TSA regulations, but a stuck lock was not TSA-related. Thank goodness I quickly found the answer to my dilemma, and I am here to share my findings.

In this article, I will cover different types of locks, how to reset each one, and who to contact for further assistance. Together, let’s dive into the solution to what to do when your luggage lock won’t open.

What To Do When Your Luggage Lock Won’t Open

Let’s answer this question right out of the gate. First, it is important to figure out the reason, such as whether it is a forgotten combination, the lock is jammed, or the lock is old and has dirt or rust. We have full instructions for a number of scenarios below. I would love to put the solutions here, but the instructions are too long, so please read on to find the answer to your situation.

Are you a new traveler or a seasoned flyer? It doesn’t matter which one because, at some point, you may run into a situation where a suitcase lock jammed or a luggage combination lock won’t open. Not to worry because this post is perfect for your needs.

So, together, let’s explore why your TSA luggage lock won’t open and find all the lost secrets to fix the problem.

3 Reasons Why Your Luggage Lock Won’t Open

I am sure there are more than 3 reasons, but these are the ones most will encounter.

Forgotten Lock Combination

It can happen to anyone – forgetting the lock combination. And who can blame you if you fail to remember your 3-digit lock combination? There are too many PINs, passwords, and alpha-numeric combinations that you have to remember for everything. And since it’s not every day that you use your travel luggage, it’s easy to forget those three numbers.

Jammed Or Stuck Lock

You may know the 3-digit combination, but your built-in luggage lock seems jammed or stuck. If you know what to do when your luggage lock won’t open because of a jammed lock, you’re good to go.

Lock With Debris

What if your luggage padlock key doesn’t work and my luggage lock won’t open because of some foreign particles in the shackle or the keyhole? Any idea on what to do when your luggage won’t open in this case?

What To Do When Your Luggage Won’t Open: Secrets No More

The first thing to do is determine the type of lock you are dealing with. Then, you can try some of the troubleshooting tips below on what to do when your luggage lock won’t open.

TSA Locks: Forgotten Combination

Both the built-in luggage lock and stand-alone padlock have 3-digit combination lock settings. Unfortunately, forgetting these three numbers in the correct sequence can happen. Do you know what to do when your luggage won’t open because you forgot the 3-digit combination?

Built-in TSA Combination Lock Won’t Open

If your built-in luggage lock is TSA-approved and you forgot the 3-digit combination, try the tip below on what to do when your luggage lock won’t open:

• Locate the metal or plastic cylinder on the right side of the first dial.
• Turn the dial and use the safety pin to find an indentation or gap in the cylinder. Leave the dial at that number.
• Do the same for the other two dials.
• If the lock doesn’t open, turn all three dials one number down.
• Repeat the process if the lock still won’t open. Turn each dial one at a time, one number down, until the lock opens.

TSA Approved Padlock

Do you know what to do when your luggage lock won’t open if it’s a TSA padlock? You can try these steps:

• Push the button or pull the lock to put pressure on the locking mechanism.
• Next, slowly turn the first dial until you hear an audible click. Keep the dial set in that number.
• Do the same process for the other two dials.
• The lock will open when all the numbers on the three dials are correct.

Special Case: Lock In Open Position

What if you need help remembering the combination of your TSA padlock while it’s in the open position? Try this trick on what to do when your luggage won’t open.

• All three dials must be at the 0 position.
• Turn the shackle 90 degrees from the lock position.
• Press the shackle down and keep it down while you set your three-digit combination.
• Release the shackle and turn it back to the lock position.

For built-in combination locks, reset the lock by sliding the lock button toward the arrow. Then, set the new number combination and release the button.

3 Digit Combination Trials

Here’s what to do when your luggage lock won’t open if one of the three digits changes due to movement during the flight.

• Try using the combination, but change one number at a time. There are only 27 possible combinations. If this method doesn’t work, try the step below.
• Time to try the factory setting. Most locks are in the default setting at 000 or 999 positions. Turn the dials until they reach these combinations; you might be lucky.
• Try all possible combinations, from 001 to 999. According to Travel Sentry (TSA lock makers), it only takes about half an hour to reach the 999 combinations.

Buy A TSA Padlock Key

TSA padlock keys have number indicators – from 001 to 007. You can buy these padlocks with corresponding lock keys. What to do when your luggage lock won’t open? First, check the padlock to see if there’s a number written right next to the combination. For example, for a 002 lock, buy a 002 key. However, these keys may not open every single type of lock but can open most locks.

Ask The Luggage Manufacturer

Some luggage manufacturers make locks that are virtually impossible to open, and for a good reason – to protect and secure the traveler’s belongings. The best tip on what to do when your luggage lock won’t open is to contact the manufacturer’s Customer Service hotline is best for assistance. Most high-end luggage manufacturers help and give instructions on what to do when your luggage lock won’t open.

Non-TSA Jammed Locks

Do you know what to do when your luggage lock won’t open if you have a jammed lock? You got the 3-digit combination right, but your luggage lock won’t move. You can try these steps:

Wriggle The Luggage Combination Lock or Padlock

For some reason, your luggage lock got jammed due to vibrations on the airplane during the flight. You wonder what to do when your luggage lock won’t open in this case. Try to wriggle the luggage lock back and forth. If you’re lucky, it will only take a few times of jiggling to get the lock back to work again. Otherwise, you should try another what to do when your luggage lock won’t open method below.

Remove Debris From The Lock

Inspect your luggage lock closely to see if foreign particles have accidentally jammed the lock. Do you know what to do when your luggage lock won’t open because debris got in the way? First, try to remove the particle using a small brush, toothpick, or thin, sharp object that can push the particle out. You can also use a can of compressed air to loosen the debris causing the lock to jam. Point the nozzle of the compressed air can at the keyhole and spray it a few times.

Shake, Tap, And Spray The Shackle In Open Position

For a jammed padlock, inspect the U-shaped metal piece called the shackle to see if it is in the open position. Then, try and gently push and pull the shackle until it moves. If what to do when your luggage lock won’t open trick doesn’t work, spray WD-40 or other lubricant sprays directly to the shackle. Move the shackle back and forth until it pops open.

Last Resort: Lock Replacement

if these solutions don’t work contact the TSA lock manufacturer for a replacement if it’s a TSA combination lock or padlock. If it’s a non-TSA padlock, get the lock or luggage manufacturer for assistance in fixing or replacing the luggage lock.

Preventive Measures

Having a stuck or jammed luggage lock is inconvenient and troublesome, especially if none of the methods above work. However, you can do a few things to help prevent this from happening. This way, you won’t have to worry about knowing what to do when your luggage lock won’t open anymore.

• Because you use your luggage rarely, it’s essential that you properly maintain the luggage locks. Also, make sure that you keep your luggage dust-free when in storage.
• Your luggage padlock is one of many things with spare keys. Keep a bundle of spare keys for your travel luggage locks, and bring the spare key of the luggage lock you are using for your travel.
• Store your luggage lock combination on your phone so you can access it anytime and have the right 3-digit lock combination.
• Spend a bit more on high-quality and reliable luggage locks. What good is cheap luggage if you can’t open the lock when you use the luggage a couple of times? Expensive alternatives are better if they have luggage locks that carry a warranty.

FAQs About What To Do When Your Luggage Lock Won’t Open

We have gathered three frequently asked questions about what to do when your luggage lock won’t open.

Can airlines open locked luggage?

The airport security and not the airlines can open locked luggage suspected of having a prohibited item inside. Hence, make sure that your luggage has a built-in TSA-approved combination lock. This type of lock will allow TSA officers to open the luggage lock to check your bag without breaking it. The TSA will then re-lock your luggage and put an inspection tag inside to inform the owner that TSA checked the bag.

What is the most common TSA key?

The most common TSA keys in most suitcases are the TSA 007 and TSA 002. You can find other TSA key numbers, e.g., TSA 004 in CCL Presto Locks and TSA 005 in some high-end luggage locks like Samsonite and Lewis & Clark.

Do airports break luggage locks?

The TSA and luggage manufacturers worked together to create locks that only TSA can open with a master key. However, if your luggage lock is not TSA-approved, TSA agents can break your luggage lock to open the suitcase for further inspection.

TSA lock jammed; what to do?

Suppose your TSA lock jams; try lubricating the lock with a silicone spray or graphite powder. You can try this method whether your TSA lock is jammed open or closed. If that doesn’t work, consider contacting the manufacturer for further guidance or hiring a professional locksmith to help you unlock it safely.

Additional Resources

If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs, and troubleshooting on TSA, here are some additional posts about TSA:

TSA Approved Pocket Knives – Ultimate Buyers Guide

3 TSA Approved Gun Case That Will Meet TSA Fight Regulations

How To Pack Sunscreen In Checked Luggage

What To Do When Your Luggage Lock Won’t Open – Conclusion

While it is unfortunate, it is possible that your luggage lock won’t open for several reasons. Knowing what to do when your luggage lock won’t open will prove helpful.

It’s not time to panic. Instead, recall some of the troubleshooting methods listed here and use them to try to open your luggage lock. If you panic, you can’t get anything done. So, take a breath and try one method after another. If lucky, one of those tips for what to do when your luggage lock won’t open will work.

Happy travels, my friends.

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TSA Lock FAQ

Warning: Do not press the reset button if you do not remember your combination. It can not be reset without the correct combination!

TC09040 Only

For more information, please watch this video.

For more information, please watch this video .

TC06082 Only

If you have forgotten your code, the maker of TSA approved locks; Travel Sentry states that you can try every possible combination. This means starting from 000 and working to 999. This method usually takes 10-15 minutes.

Visit a local airport and have a TSA agent unlock the baggage for you. Because all TSA agents have a key to the luggage, they usually are willing to help and unlock your luggage for you. (Please note that only TSA agents have the key to unlock the lock)

Combination Lock FAQ

Combination Lock Type 1

Video Guide Reset

Regular Combination Lock Type 1

Instructions to personalize combination

1. Set default combination to 0-0-0. (If resetting, set to your current combination)

2. Push in button and hold. (This release the zipper pulls)

3. While holding button, set your personal combination by turning the dial.

4. Release button when you are done to lock in your new combination.

2. Pull button to release zipper pulls, then pull and hold button.

3. While holding button, set your persona combination by turning the dial.

Combination Lock Type 2

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Guide to TSA Luggage Locks

When you travel, your luggage should be securely protected with TSA-approved luggage locks. TSA-approved locks all fit a universal master key only accessible by TSA agents that is used to inspect luggage on an as-needed basis. As only TSA agents have access to the master key, your luggage remains securely locked when handled by anyone else.

Luggage locks that are TSA-approved protect your luggage as well as its contents. TSA agents will break locks not approved by the TSA off bags to inspect luggage contents, leaving the bag’s contents vulnerable to theft and possibly damaging your bags.

We recommend  using TSA luggage locks on your suitcase . At the same time, we understand some confusion exists concerning what type of TSA locks to use, how to set combinations on TSA-approved locks, and how to reset a luggage lock if you forget your combination. We’ll answer your concerns here.

Where Can I Buy TSA-Approved Locks?

You can buy TSA-approved luggage locks at airport kiosks, local luggage stores, and online outlets. A TSA-approved lock’s packaging will clearly state the lock is approved by the TSA. Avoid luggage locks that do not make this claim.

If you want to know if your lock was opened by a TSA master key, purchase a lock with a red/green indicator. The indicator is set to green and only switches to red if the bag was opened for inspection. You can reset the indicator for future trips using a paperclip, pen, or other slender-pointed object.

Which Types of Luggage Locks are TSA approved?

You can choose several types of TSA-approved locks to fit your personal needs. Possibilities include:

• Key Locks are traditional padlocks that use a physical key to open and close the lock. One of the most common types of TSA-approved travel locks, key locks are affordable ways to keep your suitcase contents safe. One word of caution: The key for a travel key lock is small and easy to lose. Keep your key in a secure place, or you could find yourself locked out of your luggage, in which case you’ll need a small hacksaw to cut through the lock. 
• Combination Locks are a good choice for anyone who doesn't want to keep track of small travel lock keys. These locks use a three or four-digit combination. The lock has a keyhole for the TSA master key, and as long as you don't forget your combination, you won't be locked out of your suitcase. 
• Cable Locks are combination locks that use a semi-flexible cable to lock instead of the traditional metal clip. The cable's flexibility is a plus, as the lock can be used for various applications, including locking strongboxes. Some cable locks come with retractable cables that store in the lock.
• Key Card Locks use a key card similar to those used to open hotel rooms. Like combination locks, TSA-approved key card locks have a keyhole for the TSA master key. The key card is credit card size, and fits easily into a purse or wallet.

Can I Lock My Luggage on a Flight?

Travelers sometimes express concern about whether they are allowed to lock their luggage on flights. The answer is yes, you can and should secure your bags on all flights. The rules for domestic and international flights, however, are slightly different.

Can I Lock My Luggage on a Domestic Flight?

You can lock your luggage on a domestic flight. Whether or not you choose to do so depends on what you’re transporting. A lock provides extra security and peace of mind if you’re checking in a suitcase with expensive clothing or valuable items inside. A lock may not be needed if you’re traveling with a carry-on bag filled with inexpensive items.

Should I Lock My Luggage for International Flights?

Luggage locks are necessary when traveling internationally to secure your belongings and minimize theft risk. Some areas of the world have problems with luggage theft in and around airports. A securely locked suitcase is less likely to be stolen than one that can be quickly opened, riffled through for valuables, and discarded.

You can use TSA-approved luggage locks internationally, but not all international airport security have access to the TSA master key. In countries where the key is unavailable, security agents may break TSA locks to inspect bags, which could damage your bag and leave you in need of  luggage repair . Fortunately, many popular international destinations now use the TSA master key, at least at major airports. Check the following chart to see if your destination uses the TSA master key:

How Can I Reset My Luggage Lock?

Resetting a combination luggage lock is easy if you’re entering a new combination for the first time or changing a known combination. The process is more complicated if you have forgotten the combination. Here’s how to handle each of those situations.

How to Create a New Password With A New TSA Lock

Traveling using a TSA-approved lock’s factory setting is risky — it’s like using ‘password’ as an online password, so you should enter a new combination before traveling. You may also want to change your combination to keep someone who knows your password out of your bag.

Changing an Integrated TSA Lock Password

Changing the password for suitcases with integrated TSA locks requires a slightly different approach:

• Set the lock dial to 0000 or your current password.
• Slide the release button towards the dials to confirm the lock will release. 
• Insert a pointy object, such as a glass repair screwdriver, into the reset button. You do not need to hold the button down.
• Set the deal to the new password. 
• Poised the release button towards the dials to confirm the new code. The reset button will click and release if you set the code correctly. 
• Test the new password by turning the dials to a number other than the new code, then push the release button. The dials should not release. 
• Insert the bag's zipper tabs into their slots while the preferred number is displayed. The tabs should release.

Once you get the lock open, remember the combination or add it to your phone. A common traveler's trick is to add a fake name and phone number to their phone’s contact list, using the combination for the last number of the phone number.

TSA-approved luggage locks provide the most protection when paired with high-quality, well-made luggage. Check out  luggage sets from Travelpro to find the bags and suitcases airline professionals use.

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Travel Sentry ® Approved Travel Locks

TSA  is the Transportation Security Administration of the USA. TSA-recognized locks incorporate a security system from Travel Sentry ® , which enables security personnel to examine the contents of your luggage without forcing your lock or damaging your bag. Your bags can then be re-locked and sent quickly on their way. Yale Travel TSA Locks ® all incorporate Travel Sentry ® technology for maximum peace of mind on the move.

For more information about:

Travel Sentry ® www.travelsentry.org

TSA www.tsa.gov

Yale Travel locks introduce you TSA-recognized locks

TSA is the Transport Security Administration of the USA. TSA-recognized locks incorporate a security system from Travel Sentry ® which enables security personnel to examine the contents of your luggage without forcing your lock or damaging your bag. Your bags can then be re-locked and sent quickly on their way. Yale TSA Locks ® all incorporate Travel Sentry ® technology for peace of mind on the move.

Following stricter travel regulations in the US imposed in 2001 it was stated that security officials should be able to open any checked in luggage traveling to, from or within the US. In 2003 Travel Sentry ® launched a system of locks, TSA Locks ® , which are recognized and accepted by the TSA allowing people to lock their checked in luggage. Today tens of millions of travelers use their Travel Sentry ® Approved locks when travelling to, from and within the USA. Travel Sentry ® locks are officially recognized both by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the US and by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) in the U.K.

Here is the Travel Sentry Success Story for your further understanding

In January 2003 the U.S. government mandated that all checked baggage would have to remain unlocked to facilitate inspection; that is until the inception of the Travel Sentry system. The standard created by Travel Sentry, and now used by virtually all major lock and luggage companies, was created to solve the dilemma that passengers want to lock their baggage yet need to give access to government security screeners.

Born out of cooperation between the travel goods industry and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Travel Sentry was almost instantly the “must have” travel accessory. Accepted and recognized by the TSA, as well as her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs in the U.K., Travel Sentry locks are available as key or combination padlocks, belt straps, or as locking latches integrated into suitcase frames.

The locks are different from previous luggage locks in three essential ways:

1. Each lock carries the distinctive Travel Sentry red diamond alerting security agents that they can open these locks without breaking them;

2. Each lock carries a special code, which identifies to the security agent how to open the lock;

3. And each lock has a built-in override device, which is used to open and relock baggage without damage.

Has your Travel Lock been damaged or misplaced?

Occasionally, during luggage handling or the screening process, your lock maybe damaged or misplaced. What can you do in this situation?

What can I do if my lock was broken when travelling?

There are two likely reasons a lock is broken during air travel:

• Baggage handling systems (conveyor belts and other automated systems) and manual handling all take a toll on your baggage and your lock. The airlines are responsible for damage that exceeds the definition of "normal wear and tear". File a claim with your airline without delay.
• TSA Security Officers inspect more than 2 million pieces of baggage every day. It is faster and easier for them to open your Travel Sentry locks using their special Travel Sentry tools than it is for them to cut or break open a lock. However, it is rare but possible, that the TSA may have to cut open a Travel Sentry lock if it has been damaged or malfunctioning in some way. Should this occur, TSA is not liable for damage to your lock.

What happened if my lock is missing after my flight?

There are two likely reasons a lock is missing after air travel:

• Working with Travel Sentry and TSA, we identified that most instances of missing locks are a result of airline baggage handling. Locks can be torn off when caught in conveyors belts or from centrifugal force when baggage is ejected by baggage "pushers" which are part of many automated conveyor systems. Often the weakest links are the zipper pulls on baggage – not the locks themselves. Travel Sentry recommends buying baggage with "kissing sliders" which hold the lock much more securely and minimize the effect of airline baggage handling. When rough airline handling is suspected you should file a claim with your airline without delay.
• There are instances when a TSA Screening Officer has failed to replace a lock removed in order to open the bag for screening. Look for the Notice of Baggage Inspection form from the TSA inside your bag. If your lock is missing and there is a TSA Notice inside the bag, please contact us.

How to set the combination of Yale TSA Clip on lock

Model number: YTP 2/ 26 / 216 /1

This resettable combination padlock is set to open at 0-0-0 (even though dials may be positioned at other numbers).

• Step 1. Turn the dials to 0-0-0 and align them with the opening index.
• Step 2. Using a thin object press and hold “Reset” while turning the dials to the new combination.
• Step 3. Release Reset. The lock is ready for use your new combination.
• Step 4. Press the Lock Button to open the lock

Keep your combination in a safe and accessible place for future reference.

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TSA Luggage Locks – Frequently Asked Questions

Last Updated on June 24, 2020

These are the questions most often asked about tsa luggage locks.

The TSA requires access to your luggage whether you are present not. To allow you to lock your luggage they helped develop TSA approved locks.

A TSA approved lock is a lock design that is certified by a Florida based company called Travel Sentry.

All TSA luggage locks can be unlocked using a master key. The TSA officers have keys (a bunch of around 7 or 8 keys) that they can use to open millions of suitcases. Without the master key, you will need the combination code or the key that came if your lock. Your key is not a master key, it will only open your lock.

TSA recognized locks can be identified by the red diamond logo. Locks are TSA approved if they are made to the standards set by Travel Sentry. Travel Sentry don’t make the locks. They license the standard. Over 500 luggage brands or travel accessory brands around the world license the standard so they can call their locks “TSA approved” and use the red diamond logo. Their product designs must be certified by Travel Sentry.

The TSA security officers have a set of master keys that they use to open locks. On your TSA lock it will usually say something like TSA002, or TSA007. This tells the officer which key they need to use to open the lock.

Some TSA locks have an indicator that shows if your luggage has been opened for inspection. However, this should not be necessary. The TSA leaves a note if they have searched your bag.

You can buy airport approved luggage locks in many places. The cheapest deals are often found on Amazon. But you will also be able to buy a padlock at the airport. You can also buy luggage that has integrated TSA locks.

Not really, TSA locks are not very secure . The shackle on the padlocks has a very thin diameter that could easily be cut. The codes on the combination locks can be picked very quickly. And, a determined thief could get their hands on a set of master keys from eBay or even print their own set using a 3D printer.

Yes, they are worth it. But that’s because they are cheap not because they are secure. You can buy an approved lock for about $5. It wouldn’t stop a determined thief but it might be a deterrent to a casual thief. They will probably move on and steal from a bag that is not locked.

Don’t buy the type with combination locks if you are forgetful. Don’t buy the type with keys if you are the type of person to lose the keys. And if you are forgetful and lose keys then I suggest securing your zips with a plastic zip tie. This would still deter thieves while allowing TSA staff to cut your case open using scissors. The TSA opens around 10% of checked bags for further screening.

If you have a 3 digit combination lock the quickest way is to simply try all the combinations . It will take you less time than you think. If you have a 4 digit lock then it’s better to try to listen for the click.

One of the flaws with cheap padlocks is that they can sometimes jam. If this happens often it’s because the code has changed by accident and it’s become locked. I wrote a post about fixing jammed locks .

Overall TSA officers and screening staff are fine dependable folks, but there are always a few bad eggs. It’s also possible that airline baggage handlers could steal from checked luggage.

The Verdict

TSA friendly locks do solve the problem of granting access to security agents.

Unfortunately, locking your luggage doesn’t stop thieves from stealing your valuables.

Travelers “lose” belongings from checked bags all too often and it can still happen if your suitcase is locked.

So one of my top travel tips is to always pack valuables in carry-on luggage.

And make sure you pack a packable daypack just in case boarding agents ask you to gate check your carry-on.

If you need to hand over your carry-on open it up and remove any valuables and keep them in your packable daypack.

Basically, don’t lose sight of your valuables and don’t depend on locks whether they are TSA approved luggage locks or not!

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Words The TS Team

01 October 2023

How to Keep Your Luggage Safe

Feeling safe and the safety of your luggage is part of Travel Sentry’s DNA. Every solution we offer is aimed to achieve a better travel experience.

We want to share with you how you can prevent theft and loss of items when travelling. Whether that’s in the airport, at airport security or when you finally make it to your hotel. This is important as you travel with some of your most valuable items in your carry-on, in your hold-luggage and on your person. Here are some steps to stay vigilant and keep your belongings safe. 

Keeping Your Luggage Safe When Travelling

We hope these tips to keep your luggage safe will give you peace of mind and improve your travel experience.

Should You Lock Your Luggage?

It is essential to keep your luggage safe when travelling. Some travellers think that they should not lock their hold luggage as this was previously the advice. However, this was the advice when all bags were being searched pre-flight. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) now suggests you lock your checked baggage with TSA accepted locks. So, in answer to the question, should you lock your luggage, yes you can lock your luggage.

Look For the Red Diamond

All Travel Sentry locks are recognized and approved by the TSA. Look for the red diamond Travel Sentry symbol when shopping for these TSA Locks. The TSA screens approximately 1.4 million checked bags for explosives and other dangerous items daily. Many bags are searched by security agents before being loaded onto the plane. A search can be caused by any small issue picked up at screening.

TSA Accepted Locks

Airport security agents have specialist tools to access the TSA accepted locks and luggage. They can do this efficiently without damage, setting your mind at ease and speeding up the boarding process, a win-win! Other locks and luggage may be broken into at the screening process if a potential prohibited item is detected. This may damage the luggage and make it an easy target for thieves.

Do not leave luggage unattended

You should always keep your luggage locked and with you when you are at the airport. If luggage is left unattended and unlocked, anyone can open your bag and place prohibited items in it without your knowledge. Once your hold luggage has been checked in, it is out of site, however, if it has a TSA-accepted luggage lock you can relax as your luggage is safe. 

Track Your Luggage

Travel Sentry offers one step further when it comes to tracking your luggage. We offer an option for you to be able to report lost or stolen luggage with TSID. Our TSID is a smart ID tag with free lifetime protection . 

How Does TSID Work?

TSID links owners and their property using a unique code for any item that needs to be protected from accidental loss. By not showing your personal details on your property, your identity and privacy are protected. TSID comes with free lifetime protection with no subscription required. 

You can be as safe and secure as possible, but cannot control your luggage going missing. But, TSID is the global solution to track your lost luggage and help find your missing items.

Lock carry-on when flying and travelling

Carry-on luggage should also be secure as your overhead locker might not be directly above you once you’ve boarded the plane, or in fact anywhere near you! Often, if the plane is busy and hand luggage is overcrowded, your luggage will be stowed in the hold, and without a lock it is unsafe. 

Travelling through an airport

Being in an airport can be extremely busy, stressful, and distracting so it is important that you are always in control of your bags and belongings. If your carry-on is left open or out of sight even for a few seconds it will make you an easy target for theft.

Safety in hotel rooms and lockers

No hotel room is 100% secure. Use a security lock when you leave unattended luggage in your hotel room to ensure your luggage is safe while enjoying your vacation. We do advise you to lock your luggage and any valuable items away when you are not in your hotel room to avoid anything from being stolen and to be cautious, it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Hotel Lockers

A hotel room is never fully secure, even if there’s a safe to lock your valuables. It is possible that the safe has a master key that hotel employees can gain access to.

We hope these solutions will help you to keep your luggage safe and allow you to enjoy your travel experience. Along with keeping luggage secure, passengers with Travel Sentry luggage locks or padlocks will have a safe, easy and efficient inspection without damaging baggage. Just look for the red diamond Travel Sentry symbol when shopping for these TSA-accepted products.

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