Best Travel Locks of 2026
A travel lock won't stop a determined thief, but it will deter opportunists and protect your bag from casual tampering. We tested 10 locks across airports, hostels, and long-haul trains. These five offer the best combination of security and convenience.
Master Lock
Master Lock 4688D
TSA-approved, directional combination lock that's significantly harder to crack than standard numeric locks. The hardened steel shackle resists cutting, and the compact size fits most zipper pulls.
Forge
Forge TSA Approved Luggage Lock
Four TSA-approved locks for $20 is exceptional value. The combination reset is straightforward, the shackle is solid, and the color-coding helps you assign locks to specific bags.
Lewis N. Clark
Lewis N. Clark TSA Cable Lock
The flexible cable threads through multiple zipper pulls simultaneously, securing the entire bag with one lock. Ideal for soft-sided luggage with multiple compartments.
Desired Tools
Desired Tools TSA Combination Lock
A 4-digit combination gives 10,000 possible codes vs. 1,000 for 3-digit locks. The wide shackle fits most luggage zipper pulls, and the smooth dial action makes combination entry fast.
Master Lock
Master Lock 4617D Keyed Lock
For travelers who prefer keys over combinations, this TSA-approved keyed lock is the most reliable option. Comes with two keys, and the brass body resists corrosion on beach and humid-climate trips.
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Buying Guide
What does TSA-approved actually mean?
TSA-approved (also called TSA-accepted or Travel Sentry certified) means TSA agents carry a master key that opens your lock without cutting it. If they need to inspect your bag, they can open and re-lock it. Non-TSA locks will be cut off if agents need access. For checked luggage, TSA-approved locks are strongly recommended. For carry-on bags, any lock works since you're present at security.
Combination vs. keyed locks
Combination locks are more convenient — no keys to lose. Keyed locks are slightly more secure since there's no combination to observe or guess. For most travelers, a combination lock is the better choice. If you travel with a partner and share bags, keyed locks with duplicate keys can be useful.
Do travel locks actually prevent theft?
A travel lock won't stop a determined thief — zippers can be opened with a pen in seconds, and shackles can be cut with bolt cutters. What locks do is deter opportunistic theft (someone quickly unzipping your bag in a crowd) and provide evidence of tampering. For high-value items, use a lock plus a hard-sided bag with recessed zippers.
Quick Summary
- #1Master Lock 4688D$18
- #2Forge TSA Approved Luggage Lock$20
- #3Lewis N. Clark TSA Cable Lock$12
- #4Desired Tools TSA Combination Lock$10
- #5Master Lock 4617D Keyed Lock$14