The fastest places to buy luggage locks

Luggage locks are sold at most travel retailers, big-box stores, and online marketplaces. TSA-approved locks (which security agents can open without breaking them) are available at Target, Walmart, Amazon, Best Buy, and REI. Travel-specific retailers like Bed Bath & Beyond and luggage shops carry a wider selection of brands and styles. Airport shops sell them too, though at a markup — useful if you realize you need one after you arrive, but not the cheapest option.

Online, Amazon and eBay have the broadest inventory and often the lowest prices, with delivery in two to three days if you have Prime. Walmart and Target offer in-store pickup the same day in most locations. If you need a lock when ready before a trip, your nearest Target or Walmart is usually faster and cheaper than an airport shop.

Key Takeaways

  • Target, Walmart, and Amazon stock TSA-approved locks in multiple styles and price points, with same-day or two-day delivery options.
  • TSA-approved locks let security agents open your luggage without damaging it, which is required for checked bags on U.S. flights.
  • Travel retailers like REI and luggage specialty shops carry premium brands and combination locks that last longer than budget options.
  • Airport shops have locks available but charge 50 to 100 percent more than retail stores, so buy before you travel if you can.
  • Combination locks are more convenient than key locks because you cannot lose the key, but key locks are often cheaper and smaller.

What to look for when choosing a lock

The main decision is TSA-approved or not. If your luggage will be checked on a U.S. flight, a TSA-approved lock is essential — security agents can open it with a master key without breaking it. A regular padlock will be cut off if an agent needs to inspect your bag. TSA-approved locks cost the same as regular locks, so there is no reason not to buy one for travel luggage.

The second choice is combination or key. Combination locks have no key to lose and are faster to open, but you have to remember the code. Key locks are smaller and lighter, but you risk losing the key or forgetting where you put it. For luggage, combination is usually more practical because you will open and close the lock many times during a trip.

Look at the lock body material. Zinc alloy and stainless steel last longer than plastic. Plastic locks are cheaper and lighter, but the mechanism wears out faster if you use the lock frequently. For a lock you will use on every trip, stainless steel is worth the extra few dollars.

Comparing price and durability across retailers

Budget TSA-approved combination locks run $8 to $15 at Walmart and Target. These work fine for occasional travel and will last a few years. Mid-range locks from brands like Samsonite and American Tourister cost $15 to $30 and have better build quality — the dial turns smoothly and the shackle does not rattle. Premium locks from brands like Pacsafe run $25 to $50 and use heavier materials and tighter tolerances.

For most travelers, a $12 to $18 lock from Target or Walmart is the right balance. You get TSA approval, a smooth mechanism, and a warranty. If you travel more than twice a year, spend the extra $5 to $10 for a mid-range lock — the dial will not stick and you will not have to replace it as often.

Online prices are usually lower than in-store, but factor in shipping time. If you need the lock within a week, buy in-store. If you have two weeks before your trip, Amazon often saves you $3 to $5 per lock.

TSA-approved locks versus regular padlocks

A TSA-approved lock has a red diamond symbol on it. TSA agents have a master key that opens any TSA-approved lock without damaging it. If your checked luggage is selected for inspection, the agent will open your lock, inspect the contents, and close it again. You will not know it happened unless you see the inspection notice inside your bag.

A regular padlock will be cut off if an agent needs to open your bag. You will have to buy a new lock and your luggage may be damaged. TSA-approved locks cost the same as regular locks, so there is no reason to use a regular lock on checked luggage.

For carry-on bags, a TSA-approved lock is optional because your bag stays with you and is not inspected the same way. Many travelers skip locks on carry-on luggage entirely. For checked bags, TSA-approved is the only sensible choice.

Specialty locks for specific luggage types

Most luggage has a small loop or zipper pull where you can attach a padlock. If your luggage does not have a loop, look for a cable lock instead — it wraps around the zipper pulls and is harder to cut than a padlock. Cable locks cost $10 to $20 and are sold at the same retailers as padlocks.

Some luggage comes with a built-in lock mechanism. If your bag has one, you do not need to buy a separate lock. Check your luggage manual or look for a small keyhole or combination dial on the zipper pulls. Built-in locks are convenient but cannot be replaced if they break, so a separate lock is still a good backup.

For soft-sided luggage, a cable lock is more find than a padlock because it is harder to pry open. For hard-sided luggage, either works equally well. TSA-approved cable locks are available at Amazon and REI for $12 to $25.

Buying locks in bulk for multiple bags

If you have more than one piece of luggage, buying locks in a pack is cheaper than buying them individually. Amazon and Walmart sell TSA-approved lock sets of two or three for $15 to $25 — about $7 to $10 per lock instead of $12 to $15. Target also carries two-packs at a discount.

Matching locks on all your bags make it easier to remember which key or combination opens which bag. If you travel with a partner or family, having the same lock on everyone's luggage means anyone can open any bag if needed.

Buy locks in bulk only if you own multiple bags or travel frequently. A single lock lasts several years, so one lock per bag is usually enough unless you lose locks regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular padlock on checked luggage?

You can, but TSA will cut it off if they need to inspect your bag. A TSA-approved lock costs the same and lets agents open your bag without damaging it. There is no reason to use a regular lock on checked luggage.

What if I forget my combination?

Most combination locks cannot be reset without the original combination. If you forget it, you will have to cut the lock off. Write down your combination and store it somewhere safe, or use a key lock instead if you are worried about forgetting numbers.

Are luggage locks waterproof?

Most luggage locks are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. Rain and saltwater will not damage the mechanism, but submerging a lock in water may cause rust over time. Stainless steel locks resist rust better than zinc alloy. Dry your lock after exposure to water if possible.

Do I need a lock for carry-on luggage?

No. Carry-on bags stay with you and are not inspected the same way as checked bags. A lock is optional for carry-on. Most travelers skip locks on carry-on luggage to save weight and hassle.

Where is the cheapest place to buy luggage locks?

Amazon and Walmart usually have the lowest prices, especially for two-packs or multi-packs. Target and Best Buy are close behind. Airport shops charge 50 to 100 percent more, so buy before you travel if you can.