Best TSA Approved Locks for 2026

What Makes a Lock TSA-Approved?

A TSA-approved lock (also called TSA-accepted) carries a small red diamond logo from Travel Sentry or a green clover logo from Safe Skies. These logos indicate that TSA agents have universal master keys that can open the lock during a security inspection without destroying it. Without TSA approval, agents must cut off any lock on a checked bag they want to inspect — and they won't reimburse you for the damage.

Top TSA Approved Locks

1. Master Lock 4688D — Best Overall

The Master Lock 4688D (check price on Amazon) remains the top-selling TSA lock year after year. The 3-digit combination is easy to set, the metal body is durable, and the vinyl-covered shackle resists corrosion. It's affordable enough to buy a multi-pack so you can lock every zipper on your suitcase.

2. Master Lock 4696T Cable Lock 2-Pack — Best Cable Lock

The Master Lock 4696T (check price on Amazon) uses a flexible steel cable instead of a rigid shackle, making it easier to thread through multiple zipper pulls simultaneously. The 4-digit combination gives you 10,000 possible codes. Buying two lets you secure a large suitcase with multiple zipper compartments.

3. SURE LOCK TSA Locks — Best with Inspection Alert

The SURE LOCK TSA Compatible Locks (check price on Amazon) have a clever inspection indicator: if TSA opens your bag, a button pops up on the lock so you know immediately. This is handy for knowing if security reviewed your items. The zinc alloy body is solid and the dials are large and easy to read.

TSA Lock Rules Explained

The TSA has the legal right to inspect any checked bag. If you have a non-TSA lock, they cut it off. With a TSA lock, they use a master key, inspect the bag, re-lock it, and leave a notification slip. The system works well — millions of bags are inspected this way every year without incident.

Do You Need a Lock for Carry-On Bags?

No — carry-on bags go through security screening with you, and you can watch the whole process. TSA will ask you to unlock any locked carry-on if they need to inspect it. For carry-ons, a lock is mainly useful for hotel room storage or shared hostel situations after you've cleared security.

Lock Tips for International Travel

Different countries have different rules. In some countries, security forces may cut any lock — TSA approval only applies to US TSA agents. When traveling internationally to multiple countries, consider using luggage without locks and instead wrap it in plastic film at the airport for added security.

Hard-Sided Luggage with Built-In Locks

Many premium hard-sided suitcases like Samsonite and Travelpro come with built-in TSA-approved combination locks. These are more secure than add-on locks since the locking mechanism integrates with the zipper system. If security is a top priority, consider upgrading to hard-sided luggage with built-in TSA locks.