Luggage locks are sold at most travel retailers, hardware stores, and online marketplaces

You can find luggage locks at travel specialty stores like Away and Rimowa, general retailers like Target and Walmart, hardware stores like Home Depot and Lowe's, and online through Amazon, eBay, and directly from luggage manufacturers. TSA-approved locks—which airport security can open without damaging your bag—are available at all of these locations. The choice between where to buy depends on whether you want to see the lock in person, need it quickly, or are looking for a specific brand or style.

Prices range widely depending on the lock type and brand. A basic TSA-approved combination lock costs $5 to $15. Heavier-duty locks or specialty designs (like cable locks or biometric locks) run $20 to $60. Buying in bulk—a pack of two or three locks—often costs less per lock than buying a single one.

Key Takeaways

  • Travel retailers, hardware stores, and online marketplaces all stock luggage locks, with online options offering the widest selection and fastest shipping.
  • TSA-approved locks let airport security open your bag without breaking it, and they are clearly marked on the packaging or product listing.
  • Combination locks are the most common type sold and require no key to carry, while cable locks work better on soft-sided luggage.
  • Buying a pack of two or three locks is usually cheaper per lock than buying one, and having a spare is practical for multi-bag travel.

Travel retailers and luggage brands

Luggage companies often sell their own locks, sometimes bundled with bags or sold separately. Away, Rimowa, Samsonite, and American Tourister all offer locks on their websites. Buying directly from the luggage brand guarantees the lock fits your bag's zippers and matches the aesthetic, though you will pay a premium—typically $12 to $25 per lock. These locks are usually TSA-approved.

Specialty travel retailers like REI, Bed Bath & Beyond (online), and travel-focused websites carry multiple brands in one place. REI stocks TSA locks from brands like Pacsafe and Eagle Creek. These stores often have staff who can explain the difference between lock types and help you choose based on your bag material and travel habits.

General retailers and big-box stores

Target, Walmart, and Costco stock luggage locks in their travel sections, both in-store and online. Walmart and Target typically carry 3 to 5 brands at any given time, with prices between $6 and $20. Costco sells locks in multipacks (usually two or three) at a lower per-unit cost if you have a membership. These retailers focus on TSA-approved combination locks, which are the most popular type.

The advantage of buying at a general retailer is convenience—you can pick up a lock while shopping for other travel items, and return it easily if it does not fit your bag. The downside is limited selection; you will not find specialty locks like cable locks or biometric models at these stores.

Hardware stores

Home Depot and Lowe's carry luggage locks in their security or travel sections, though selection is smaller than at travel retailers. You will find basic TSA-approved combination locks and sometimes cable locks. Prices are competitive, usually $5 to $15. Hardware stores are useful if you need a lock the same day and do not want to wait for shipping.

Staff at hardware stores may be less familiar with luggage-specific locks than travel retailers, so you may need to confirm the lock is TSA-approved before buying. Check the packaging for the red diamond TSA logo.

Online marketplaces and direct shipping

Amazon carries the widest selection of luggage locks—hundreds of models from dozens of brands. You can filter by TSA approval, lock type (combination, key, cable), and price. Shipping is often fast (one to two days with Prime), and returns are straightforward. Prices on Amazon are typically $5 to $30 per lock, sometimes cheaper than retail stores.

eBay also sells luggage locks, both new and used. New locks are usually the same price as Amazon; used locks are cheaper but come without guarantees. Other online options include Etsy (for specialty or vintage locks) and direct brand websites. When buying online, check the product photos and reviews to confirm the lock fits your bag's zipper size and that it is TSA-approved if that matters for your travel.

What to check before you buy

Before purchasing, confirm whether you need a TSA-approved lock. If you fly within the United States, a TSA lock lets security open your bag without cutting it. If you travel internationally or do not check luggage, TSA approval does not matter. The red diamond TSA logo is printed on the packaging and product listing.

Check your bag's zipper size and style. Most luggage uses standard-sized zippers that fit any luggage lock, but some designer bags or hard-sided luggage have thicker or oddly-shaped zippers. Read reviews or contact the luggage manufacturer if you are unsure. Also decide between a combination lock (no key to lose) and a key lock (faster to open if you forget the combination). Cable locks work best on soft-sided bags; combination locks work on any bag.

Buying in bulk and multi-bag travel

If you own multiple bags or travel frequently, buying a pack of two or three locks saves money. A single lock costs $8 to $12; a pack of two costs $12 to $18 total, or $6 to $9 per lock. Packs are sold at all the retailers listed above and are especially common on Amazon and at Costco.

Having a spare lock is practical: one lock stays on your checked bag, and a second secures a personal item or day bag. If you lose or forget a lock during a trip, you have a backup. Packs also make sense if you travel with family and each person needs their own lock.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular padlock on luggage?

Yes, but it may not fit. Luggage locks are designed for the specific zipper size and shape on travel bags. A regular padlock from a hardware store might be too large or too heavy. If you use a regular lock, test it on your bag before traveling to make sure it closes properly and does not damage the zipper.

Do I need a TSA lock if I do not fly?

No. TSA locks are only useful if you check luggage on a flight within the United States. If you drive, take a train, or travel internationally, a regular luggage lock works fine. TSA locks cost the same as regular locks, so there is no harm in buying one even if you do not fly often.

What is the difference between a combination lock and a key lock?

A combination lock has a dial or buttons you set to a code; you do not carry a key. A key lock requires a physical key to open. Combination locks are more popular because you cannot lose the key, but if you forget the code, you may need bolt cutters. Key locks are faster to open if you remember the key, but you have to carry it.

Can I buy a luggage lock at the airport?

Some airports sell luggage locks in gift shops or travel retailers, but selection is limited and prices are higher than retail stores or online. If you forgot a lock, the airport is a backup option, but buying before you travel is cheaper and gives you more choices.

Do all luggage locks fit all bags?

Most luggage locks fit standard zippers, but some bags have oversized or custom zippers that do not work with regular locks. Check your bag's zipper size and read product reviews before buying. If you own a designer bag or hard-sided luggage, contact the manufacturer to confirm which locks fit.