The fastest places to buy TSA luggage locks
TSA luggage locks are sold at most major retailers that carry travel gear. The quickest option is usually a big-box store like Target, Walmart, or Costco if you need one before a trip — they stock them in the luggage section and you walk out the same day. Amazon and other online retailers ship them in two to three days with standard delivery, which works if you have time. Specialty travel stores like TravelSmith and REI carry them year-round, though prices run higher than big-box stores.
If you are already at the airport, Hudson News and other airport retailers sell TSA locks at a significant markup — often double the retail price. Buying before you travel saves money and stress. Local hardware stores sometimes carry them, though selection is limited and staff may not know which locks meet TSA standards.
Key Takeaways
- Walmart, Target, and Costco stock TSA locks in their luggage sections and let you buy in person the same day.
- Amazon and online retailers deliver in two to three days and often have lower prices than physical stores.
- Airport retailers sell TSA locks but charge two to three times the price of retail stores.
- Look for the red diamond TSA logo on the package to confirm the lock works with TSA screening equipment.
- Combination locks cost $8 to $15, while key locks run $5 to $12 at most retailers.
Big-box retailers: same-day pickup and lowest prices
Walmart and Target carry TSA luggage locks year-round in their travel and luggage sections. Both stores stock multiple brands — usually Master Lock, Forge, and store brands — at prices between $8 and $15 per lock. You can check stock online before you go, and both offer same-day pickup at many locations if you order through their websites.
Costco carries TSA locks seasonally, with the best selection in spring and summer. Prices are competitive, and you often get multi-packs at a discount if you buy two or three locks at once. You need a Costco membership to shop in-store, but non-members can order online through Costco.com.
Walmart also sells TSA locks through Walmart.com with free two-day shipping on orders over $35, or you can pick up in-store within hours of ordering. Target offers the same through Target.com, with free two-day shipping and same-day pickup at most locations.
Online retailers: wider selection and faster delivery than you might expect
Amazon stocks dozens of TSA lock brands and styles, with prices ranging from $5 to $20 per lock depending on the brand and whether you buy single locks or multi-packs. Prime members get two-day delivery on most locks, and many ship faster. Non-Prime orders usually arrive in five to seven business days. Amazon's reviews are useful because travelers describe how the locks perform in real TSA screening.
eBay carries new and used TSA locks from multiple sellers. Prices are often lower than Amazon, but shipping times vary by seller — check the estimated delivery date before you buy. Look for sellers with high ratings and read reviews that mention TSA compatibility.
Newegg and other electronics retailers occasionally stock TSA locks, though selection is smaller than Amazon. Shipping is usually fast because these sites prioritize quick delivery, but prices are not always competitive.
Specialty travel retailers: informed staff but higher prices
REI carries TSA locks in-store and online, with staff who can explain the difference between combination and key locks. Prices run $12 to $20 per lock, higher than big-box stores. REI members get a 10 percent discount on most items, which can offset the higher base price. Shipping is free on orders over $50.
TravelSmith specializes in travel gear and stocks TSA locks alongside other luggage accessories. Prices are similar to REI — $12 to $18 per lock — but TravelSmith often runs sales on travel items. Their website includes detailed product descriptions and customer reviews specific to travel use.
Local luggage repair shops sometimes sell TSA locks and can advise you on which lock fits your specific luggage. Prices vary, but you support a local business and get personalized service. Call ahead to confirm they have locks in stock.
What to look for when you buy
The red diamond TSA logo on the package means the lock is approved for TSA screening. TSA officers have master keys that open these locks without damaging them. Locks without this logo may be cut open by security, and the TSA is not responsible for damage.
Choose between combination locks and key locks based on your preference. Combination locks cost slightly more ($10 to $15) but you do not have to carry a key. Key locks are cheaper ($5 to $12) but you must keep the key with you or risk losing access to your luggage. Some travelers buy both — a combination lock for checked bags and a key lock for carry-on bags.
Check that the lock fits your luggage zippers. Most TSA locks work on standard luggage, but oversized or specialty luggage may need a larger lock. Read the product dimensions and compare them to your bag's zipper holes before you buy.
Prices across different retailers
| Retailer | Typical Price Range | Delivery or Pickup | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | $8–$12 | Same-day pickup or 2-day shipping | Budget buyers, quick trips |
| Target | $9–$14 | Same-day pickup or 2-day shipping | Budget buyers, quick trips |
| Costco | $10–$15 (multi-packs cheaper per lock) | In-store or online shipping | Bulk buyers, members |
| Amazon | $5–$20 | 2-day (Prime) or 5–7 days | Wide selection, reviews |
| REI | $12–$20 | In-store or free shipping over $50 | informed information, member discounts |
| Airport retailers | $15–$30 | when ready | Last-minute purchases only |
Buying TSA locks in bulk or as a set
If you travel frequently or have multiple bags, buying a multi-pack saves money. Costco and Amazon both sell three-packs and five-packs at a lower per-lock price than buying singles. A three-pack at Costco typically costs $20 to $25, or about $7 to $8 per lock — less than half the price of buying individually at specialty stores.
Some retailers bundle TSA locks with other luggage accessories like luggage tags or packing cubes. These bundles are worth comparing to single-lock prices, but only if you actually need the other items. A bundle that costs $25 for a lock plus two items you will not use is not a better deal than a $10 lock alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular padlock instead of a TSA lock?
No. TSA officers will cut off any lock that does not have the red diamond TSA logo, and the TSA does not pay for damage. Regular padlocks do not have master keys that fit TSA equipment, so security cannot open them without destroying your lock and potentially your luggage.
Do I need TSA locks if I only fly domestically?
TSA locks are useful for domestic flights because TSA screeners may need to open your checked bag. If you use a non-TSA lock, they will cut it. International flights may require TSA locks depending on your destination and airline, so check your airline's baggage policy before you travel.
Are expensive TSA locks better than cheap ones?
Price does not may provide durability. A $10 Master Lock TSA lock from Walmart works as well as a $20 lock from a specialty store. Buy based on the brand's reviews and whether you prefer a combination or key lock, not on price alone. Most TSA locks last several years with normal use.
What if I lose the key to my TSA lock?
If you lose the key, you will need to cut the lock off or contact the manufacturer to see if they can send a replacement key. Some manufacturers keep records of key codes, but this varies by brand. Combination locks avoid this problem entirely, which is why many travelers prefer them.
Can I buy TSA locks at the airport if I forget one?
Yes, but expect to pay $15 to $30 for a lock that costs $8 to $12 at a retail store. Airport retailers mark up prices significantly because they know you have limited options. If you have time before your flight, ask if the airport has a luggage store or travel shop, as prices may be slightly lower than news stands.