Best Luggage Locks for Travel in 2026

Why You Need a Luggage Lock

A luggage lock won't stop a determined thief, but it does deter opportunistic theft and keeps your zippers from accidentally opening during baggage handling. More importantly, using a TSA-approved lock means airport security can open your bag with a master key if they need to inspect it — instead of cutting your lock off entirely.

Here are the best luggage locks you can buy on Amazon right now.

Best Overall: Master Lock 4688D

The Master Lock 4688D (check price on Amazon) is the gold standard of travel locks. It's TSA-accepted, meaning TSA agents have a special key to open it without breaking it. You set your own 3-digit combination, and the vinyl-covered shackle holds up well to rough baggage handling. At under $10 per lock, it's the best value out there. It comes in single and multi-packs.

Best Cable Lock: Master Lock 4696T

If you prefer a cable lock for more flexible attachment, the Master Lock 4696T 2-pack (check price on Amazon) is a great choice. The cable wraps around zipper pulls and luggage handles. You can set a 4-digit combination for thousands of possible codes, giving you extra security. The cable is flexible steel, resistant to cutting, and the lock body is solid metal alloy.

Best Budget Option: SURE LOCK TSA Locks

The SURE LOCK TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks (check price on Amazon) feature a pop-up inspection indicator — if the TSA opens your bag, a small button pops up to let you know. Easy-read dials make setting the combination simple, and the zinc alloy body is sturdy. These are a great budget-friendly pack.

TSA-Approved vs. Regular Locks

Only buy TSA-approved (also called TSA-accepted) locks for checked luggage. These locks have a small red diamond symbol on them. Without this, TSA can cut your lock off if they need to inspect your bag, and you get no reimbursement. For carry-on bags, you don't need TSA approval since those bags stay with you through security.

Combination vs. Keyed Locks

Combination locks are better for travel because you can't lose a key. Keyed locks are slightly more secure, but if you lose the key mid-trip, you're stuck. Stick with combination locks for hassle-free travel.

Do Locks Really Work?

Luggage locks are a deterrent, not a guarantee. A determined thief can slash a soft-sided bag or break a zipper pull. Locks work best for deterring casual theft in hotels, hostels, and during baggage claim. For high-value items, consider a hard-sided suitcase with integrated TSA-approved locks.

Tips for Using Luggage Locks

• Always use TSA-approved locks on checked luggage
• Lock ALL zipper pulls together, not just one
• Write down your combination somewhere safe at home
• Don't use the same combination across all your locks
• Test the lock before your trip to make sure it opens reliably

What to Look For

When shopping for travel locks, prioritize TSA approval, combination over key, metal body (not plastic), and a cable or shackle diameter that fits your zipper pulls. Avoid cheap plastic locks from unknown brands — the locking mechanism fails quickly under rough handling.