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Best TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Updated August 2021
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Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
TravelMore TSA-Approved Travel Combination Cable Luggage Locks
TravelMore
TSA-Approved Travel Combination Cable Luggage Locks
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Durable & Rugged
Bottom Line

These locks are a little larger than others and hold up better.

Pros

Well-made locks. Work well on zippers and small lockers. Company is responsive if you have problems with the locks. Locks come in orange or black.

Cons

Setting the combination can be a little difficult. Some people have a hard time reopening their locks.

Best Bang for the Buck
Forge TSA Travel Luggage Locks
Forge
TSA Travel Luggage Locks
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Variety and Value
Bottom Line

You get 4 locks of different colors for this price, allowing you to keep track of a variety of lock combinations.

Pros

Includes a red TSA inspection indicator, which lets you know when it has been opened with a master key. Can hold up to 150 lb. of pressure. Numbers on the dial are easy to read. Combination setting is simple.

Cons

The shackle on this lock is a little short. Some quality control issues. Test the locks well before you put them on your bags.

Anvil TSA-Approved Luggage Lock
Anvil
TSA-Approved Luggage Lock
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Extra Secure
Bottom Line

The 4 digits on this lock makes it harder for a thief to open.

Pros

Has a steel shackle instead of a cord. Small size fits on zippers. White on black numbers are easy to read. Heavy construction for a little lock.

Cons

The shackle length is shorter on this lock than on a wire lock, and may not fit all of your baggage or cases.

SURE LOCK TSA-Compatible Travel Luggage Locks
SURE LOCK
TSA-Compatible Travel Luggage Locks
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Good Value Good Product
Bottom Line

These 2 locks come with inspection indicators to let you know your bags have been inspected.

Pros

Locks can take the rough handling of checked air travel well. Combination doesn't take long to set. Locks come in several colors to make your bags easier to spot at baggage claim. Large numbers on the locks are easy to see.

Cons

Some reports of getting a lock that doesn't operate properly.

TravelMore TSA-Approved Luggage Locks
TravelMore
TSA-Approved Luggage Locks
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Unique Design
Bottom Line

These straight-barrel locks provide security and flexibility.

Pros

Locks work with a key, eliminating problems with setting combinations. Wire detaches, making it easier to use in some situations, particularly on smaller bags and purses. Works when other locks won't fit. Can be easier to use than padlocks.

Cons

All of the locks are keyed the same, making them easy to access for someone else with the same type of lock.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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Consumers
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When you go on a trip, it is reasonable to want to lock your luggage. Before you send checked baggage through, you will need to make sure the lock is approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). In the United States, federal law requires that the TSA have access to your luggage. TSA screens luggage and must have the ability to open and inspect it. If you do not have a TSA approved lock, the officers will have to cut off the lock. If that is not possible, they may have to enter your bag in another way, which could permanently damage it. TSA is not responsible for those damages. A TSA approved lock works with a master key system, which allows the TSA officer to use a master key to access the lock without having to break your lock or damage your luggage.

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