Luggage Locks: Travel Security Essential?

Locking your luggage when travelling abroad is a good idea to prevent theft. However, it's important to note that locks don't guarantee security, as thieves can still break into locked bags. The best way to secure your luggage is to use a TSA-approved lock, which can be easily opened by security agents with a master key. If you use a different type of lock, there's a risk that security agents will cut it off to inspect your bag.

TSA-approved locks are recognised worldwide

The Travel Sentry program, indicated by a red diamond logo, is approved in 44 countries and over 650 airports, covering two billion travellers annually. This means that if you use a TSA-approved lock, airport security staff in these countries will be able to use their master key to open your lock if they need to inspect your luggage. This is particularly useful if you are travelling to a country that does not have the keys to open a TSA-approved lock, as in this case, they will likely cut the lock to gain access.

Some of the countries that use the Travel Sentry system include Canada, Switzerland, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, and many others. While the TSA is only in the United States, the Travel Sentry system is widely recognised, making TSA-approved locks a good option for international travellers.

In addition to the Travel Sentry logo, you can also look for TSA-approved locks that come in a variety of styles and configurations, including combination locks and keyed locks. These locks not only provide convenience and peace of mind but also play a crucial role in maintaining the safety and integrity of your luggage during air travel. They prevent unauthorised access to your belongings and minimise the risk of theft or tampering.

By using a TSA-approved lock, you can avoid the inconvenience of having your lock permanently damaged during a routine security inspection. It is important to note that while you can use any type of lock on your luggage, using a non-TSA-approved lock may result in your lock being cut off if the TSA or other airport security agents need to inspect your luggage and do not have the appropriate key. Therefore, it is recommended to use TSA-approved locks to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.

Locks help deter thieves

Locks are a great way to ensure your luggage is secure and prevent theft. They are especially useful when you are travelling on public transport, such as a bus or train, and need to store your luggage away from your seat. In these situations, locks will protect your bags if you can't keep an eye on them at all times.

Even if you are staying in a luxurious, 5-star hotel, there's no telling what might happen to your belongings. If you decide to check out early and leave your luggage in the hotel lobby, it's best to keep your things secure. With all the foot traffic going on in hotels—people checking in, staff rushing to and from—no one will be able to keep an eye on your luggage all the time.

Locks are also a good idea if you are staying in a hostel or Airbnb, where there are likely to be lots of people coming and going.

While locks won't necessarily stop a determined thief, they will deter opportunistic thieves and baggage handlers who are likely to move on to easier targets.

Locks are easily breakable

Even if you lock your luggage, it is still possible for thieves to break in and steal your belongings. In 2014, the Washington Post published a photo of the TSA master keys, which was then removed, but not before it went viral and allowed people to 3D print their own copies. This means that anyone with access to a 3D printer could unlock any TSA-approved lock.

Additionally, any motivated thief can rip open your bag without breaking the lock and without leaving a trace. All they need is a simple ballpoint pen. They can insert the pen into the seam of the zipper and break it open, then reseal the bag by bringing the zipper back around, so you won't even know that your bag has been tampered with until you realise your belongings are missing.

If you are set on using a lock, it is recommended to use a TSA-approved lock, especially when travelling in the US, but also when travelling in Europe, Asia, or elsewhere. This is because TSA agents have the right to open any checked bag and check it for illegal contraband. If your luggage has a TSA-approved lock, they can use a master key to open it and then lock it again once they are done. If you don't use a TSA-approved lock, agents can still open your luggage, but they will have to do so by force and may end up ruining your suitcase.

If you are travelling to a country that does not have the master keys to open a TSA-approved lock, they will likely cut the lock off your bag. In this case, it may be better to use plastic cables or zip ties, which can be easily snipped off and replaced.

However, it is important to note that locks are not completely useless. They can still provide an extra layer of security and deter thieves from targeting your luggage.

Locks are not necessary, but recommended

Locking your luggage when travelling abroad is not a requirement, but it is highly recommended for peace of mind. You never know who you are handing your bags to and what might happen to them. If your luggage isn't locked, anyone can go through your bag and take whatever they want.

When to lock your luggage

There are several situations in which locking your luggage is a good idea. Firstly, before checking your luggage in at the airport, you should lock it up, knowing it's secured. Secondly, if you're leaving your luggage at your hotel, for example, if your flight schedule and hotel check-in times don't align, locking your luggage will ensure that what you've packed stays where it belongs. This is also the case if you're staying in a hostel or Air BnB, where there are lots of people coming and going. Finally, if you're travelling on a shuttle bus, locking your luggage will allow you to relax and enjoy the ride without worrying about your bags.

What type of lock to use

Although you can use any type of lock to secure your luggage, it is recommended to use a TSA-approved lock, especially when travelling in the US. TSA-approved locks are recognised worldwide and can be opened by security agents with a master key. If you use a different type of lock, security agents will have the right to break your lock or bag open if they need to check the contents of your bag. They may not reimburse you or replace the broken bag, so it's better to use a TSA-approved lock to avoid this situation.

Alternatives to TSA-approved locks

If you're travelling to a country that doesn't have TSA-approved locks, you can use plastic cables or zip ties to secure your luggage. These can be easily cut by security agents and are cheaper than a lock. Another option is to wrap your suitcase in plastic wrap, which will deter most thieves as it takes time to remove and is difficult to replace.

You can use any type of lock

When travelling, you can use any type of lock on your luggage. However, it is recommended to use a TSA-approved lock, especially when travelling to or within the United States. This is because TSA agents have a master key to open these locks, and can relock them after inspection. If you use a different lock, they may cut it off or break it to gain access to your bag.

TSA-approved locks are recognised worldwide. They are often integrated into the side of the luggage and can be set with your own combination. If you don't have a built-in lock, you can use a padlock-style TSA-approved lock.

If you're not using a TSA-approved lock, cable ties or plastic zip ties are a good alternative. They are harder for thieves to deal with, as they can't be easily removed and replaced without you noticing. However, you will need to carry a small pair of scissors to remove them when you reach your destination.

If you're travelling with valuables, it's best to keep them in your carry-on luggage, which will stay with you for the duration of your travels.

Frequently asked questions