The fastest way depends on what kind of lock you have

Most luggage locks fall into three categories: combination locks built into the zipper, padlocks you've added yourself, or TSA-approved locks that allow airport security to open them without damage. The method to unlock yours depends on which one is on your bag. If you know the combination, you straightforward enter it. If you don't, the path forward changes based on whether you own the key, whether you can contact the manufacturer, or whether you're willing to cut the lock off.

The good news is that you don't need to damage your luggage in most cases. Luggage manufacturers keep records of combinations, locksmiths can open many locks without cutting, and TSA locks have a master key system. The bad news is that the process takes time and sometimes money—so start with the easiest option first.

Key Takeaways

  • Built-in combination locks can often be reset by the manufacturer if you have proof of purchase, though this takes several days to a week.
  • If you added a padlock yourself, a locksmith can open it without damage for $15 to $50, which is faster than cutting it off.
  • TSA locks can be opened by airport security without damage, and you can contact the manufacturer for the combination if you have the lock's serial number.
  • Bolt cutters will remove any padlock but will damage the lock itself, so use this only if you need access when ready and don't plan to reuse the lock.
  • Never try to pick a luggage lock yourself unless you have lockpicking experience—you risk damaging the lock mechanism beyond repair.

Resetting a built-in combination lock through the manufacturer

If your luggage has a combination lock built into the zipper slider, the manufacturer usually keeps a record of your combination. You'll need proof that you own the bag—typically a receipt, credit card statement, or order confirmation showing your name and the purchase date.

Contact the luggage brand's customer service department by phone or email. Have your proof of purchase ready, along with the model number of your luggage (usually printed on a tag inside the bag or on the bottom). The manufacturer will verify your ownership and either tell you the combination or send you a reset code. This process typically takes 3 to 7 business days.

Some brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, and Away have online forms on their websites where you can submit your information and receive the combination by email within 24 to 48 hours. Check the brand's website first—it's faster than calling.

Opening a padlock you added yourself

If you put a padlock on your luggage and lost the key, a locksmith is your fastest option. Call a local locksmith and describe the lock—they can usually open it in 15 to 30 minutes without damaging the luggage. The cost is typically $15 to $50 depending on the lock type and your location. This is worth the money because you keep the luggage intact and can reuse it.

If you want to try opening it yourself without professional help, you have two options: bolt cutters or angle grinders. Bolt cutters work on most padlocks under 1/4 inch thick and cost $20 to $40 at any hardware store. An angle grinder is faster but creates sparks and requires safety glasses—only use this if you have experience with power tools. Both methods destroy the lock, so you'll need to buy a new one.

Do not attempt to pick the lock unless you have lockpicking experience. Padlocks have springs and pins that can jam permanently if you explore wrong pressure, leaving you unable to open it even with the correct key later.

Unlocking a TSA-approved lock

TSA locks have a special keyhole that allows Transportation Security Administration officers to open your bag during screening without cutting the lock. If you've forgotten the combination on a TSA lock, you have two paths: contact the manufacturer or have TSA open it at the airport.

Most TSA locks have a serial number printed on the back or bottom of the lock itself. Write down this number and contact the manufacturer—brands like Samsonite, American Tourister, and Delsey all make TSA locks. Provide the serial number and proof of purchase, and they'll give you the combination. This takes 2 to 5 business days.

If you need access before then and you're traveling, TSA can open the lock at airport security. Tell the officer you've forgotten the combination. They have a master key that opens TSA locks without damage. You'll be able to relock it with the same combination afterward. This only works at airport security checkpoints, not before you arrive at the airport.

What to do if you don't have proof of purchase

If you can't find your receipt or order confirmation, the manufacturer may still help you—but it takes longer. They'll ask for additional information to verify ownership: the color and model of the luggage, where you bought it, approximately when you bought it, and sometimes a photo of the bag with the lock visible.

Some manufacturers will reset the lock based on this information alone. Others require you to mail the luggage to them for inspection, which can take 2 to 3 weeks. Call the brand's customer service line and ask what they need—don't assume you're out of luck just because you don't have a receipt.

If the manufacturer won't help without proof of purchase, your next option is a locksmith. They don't need proof of ownership and can open the lock regardless of the brand or how long you've owned it.

Cutting off the lock as a last resort

If you need access when ready and can't reach a locksmith or the manufacturer, bolt cutters will remove any padlock in under a minute. Buy a pair at any hardware store for $20 to $40. Place the lock's shackle (the U-shaped part) between the cutting blades and squeeze the handles together. The lock will snap off.

This method destroys the lock, so you'll need to buy a replacement. It also doesn't work on combination locks built into the zipper—those require either the manufacturer's help or professional locksmith tools. Only use bolt cutters if you own the lock and don't plan to use it again.

An angle grinder cuts through locks faster but creates sparks and requires safety equipment. Only use this if you have experience with power tools and are working in a safe space away from flammable materials.

Preventing this problem in the future

Write down your combination and store it somewhere safe—not in your luggage. A notes app on your phone, a password manager, or a written list in a drawer at home all work. If you use a padlock, keep the key in a small envelope taped inside your closet or in a desk drawer.

For TSA locks, write down the serial number and keep it with your combination. For built-in locks, keep your receipt or take a photo of the order confirmation and store it in your phone's photo library.

If you travel frequently, consider using the same combination for all your locks so you only have to remember one number. Just make sure it's not something obvious like your birthday or a sequential number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a locksmith open a luggage lock without damaging it?

Yes, most locksmiths can open padlocks and many combination locks without damage. Built-in combination locks sometimes require the manufacturer's help, but padlocks are usually straightforward. Call a local locksmith and describe the lock—they'll tell you if they can open it and what it will cost.

Will TSA open my luggage lock at the airport if I forgot the combination?

Yes, if it's a TSA-approved lock. TSA officers have a master key that opens these locks without damage. Tell the officer at security that you've forgotten the combination, and they'll open it for you. You can relock it with the same combination afterward.

What if I cut off a padlock and need to lock my luggage again?

You'll need to buy a new padlock. TSA-approved padlocks cost $10 to $25 and allow airport security to open them without damage. Regular padlocks cost $5 to $15. Install the new lock on the same zipper slider where the old one was.

How long does it take the manufacturer to give me my combination?

It varies by brand. Some manufacturers like Samsonite respond within 24 to 48 hours if you use their online form. Others take 3 to 7 business days if you call or email. Check the brand's website first—they usually have the fastest method listed.

Can I pick a luggage lock myself?

You can try, but it's risky. Luggage locks have small springs and pins that can jam if you explore wrong pressure, making the lock impossible to open even with the correct combination later. Unless you have lockpicking experience, it's safer to contact the manufacturer or hire a locksmith.