TSA locks are sold at most major retailers, both online and in stores

You can buy TSA-approved luggage locks at airport shops, luggage stores, big-box retailers, and online marketplaces. The most common places are Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Home Depot, and specialty luggage shops. Airport Hudson News and Duty Free shops stock them too, though prices run higher. Most cost between $8 and $25 per lock, depending on the brand and whether you buy a single lock or a pack of two or three.

The lock must have the red diamond TSA symbol printed on it — this tells screeners they can open it with a master key without cutting it off. Any lock without that mark will be cut if TSA needs to inspect your bag. Check the product listing or package before buying to confirm the symbol is there.

Key Takeaways

  • TSA locks must display the red diamond TSA symbol on the body or packaging, or screeners will cut them off during inspection.
  • Online retailers like Amazon and Walmart often have the widest selection and lower prices than airport shops.
  • Luggage specialty stores and travel sections of department stores carry TSA locks but may charge more per unit.
  • Airport shops sell TSA locks but at a premium; buy before your trip if possible to save money.
  • Packs of two or three locks cost less per lock than buying a single one, which is useful if you have multiple bags.

Online retailers have the best selection and pricing

Amazon carries dozens of TSA lock brands and styles — combination locks, key locks, cable locks, and padlocks. You can read customer reviews, compare prices across sellers, and have locks delivered before your trip. Walmart and Target's websites work the same way, and both offer in-store pickup if you need them the same day.

eBay also sells TSA locks from multiple vendors, though shipping times vary. Check the seller's return policy and shipping date before ordering, especially if your trip is soon. Most online orders arrive within three to five business days with standard shipping.

Big-box stores stock TSA locks in the luggage or travel section

Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and Home Depot all carry TSA locks in their physical locations. Walmart and Target usually have them near luggage or in the travel accessories aisle. Best Buy stocks them in the travel electronics section. Home Depot carries them in the hardware aisle alongside other locks and security items.

Call ahead or check the store's website to confirm they have TSA locks in stock before you go. Inventory varies by location, and smaller stores may not carry them at all. If you need a lock the day before your flight, a big-box store is faster than waiting for shipping.

Luggage specialty stores offer informed help but higher prices

Stores that sell luggage and travel gear — like Away, Samsonite outlets, or local luggage shops — stock TSA locks and can answer questions about compatibility with your specific bag. Staff can show you different lock types and help you choose one that fits your luggage's lock slots. These stores are worth visiting if you are unsure which type of lock you need.

Expect to pay more per lock than you would online or at a big-box store. A single TSA lock at a specialty store might cost $15 to $25, while the same lock on Amazon could be $8 to $12. The trade-off is personalized information and the ability to see the lock in person before buying.

Airport shops are convenient but expensive

Hudson News, Duty Free, and other airport retailers sell TSA locks at gates and in terminals. This is useful if you forgot to pack one and realize it at the airport, but prices are typically double what you would pay elsewhere — $15 to $30 for a single lock. Some airports have better prices than others, so check a few shops if you have time.

If you are buying at the airport, make sure the lock is in your carry-on bag when you board, not in checked luggage. You will not have time to retrieve it from checked baggage if you need it before your flight.

Combination locks versus key locks: which type to buy

Combination locks do not require carrying a key, so you cannot lose it. You set a code when you buy the lock, and TSA screeners can open it with their master key if needed. The downside is that combination locks are slightly bulkier and the dial can jam if sand or dirt gets inside.

Key locks are smaller and lighter, but you have to keep the key with you or risk losing access to your bag. Some travelers keep the key on a keychain or tape it inside their luggage. Both types work equally well for TSA screening — the choice comes down to whether you prefer the convenience of a code or the simplicity of a key.

Cable locks wrap around luggage zippers and are useful if your bag does not have built-in lock slots. Padlocks work with any bag that has a loop or slot. Most travelers buy a combination padlock because it covers both needs.

What to check before you buy

Look for the red diamond TSA symbol on the lock itself or on the packaging. This is the only mark that tells you TSA screeners can open it without cutting it. If the listing does not mention the TSA symbol, do not buy it — a regular lock will be destroyed if TSA needs to inspect your bag.

Check the lock's material and reviews. Locks made of zinc alloy or stainless steel last longer than plastic ones. Read customer reviews to see if the lock jams, rusts, or breaks easily. A lock that fails mid-trip is worse than no lock at all.

Measure your luggage's lock slots or zippers before ordering. Most TSA locks fit standard luggage, but oversized bags or older suitcases may need a cable lock instead. If you are unsure, buy from a retailer with a return policy so you can exchange it if it does not fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular padlock instead of a TSA lock?

No. TSA screeners will cut off any lock that does not have the red diamond TSA symbol. A regular padlock will be destroyed if they need to inspect your bag. Always buy a lock marked as TSA-approved.

Do I need a TSA lock if I am flying domestically?

TSA locks are useful for domestic flights because TSA may inspect your checked bag. They are required if you want to lock your bag and still allow screeners to open it without cutting the lock. If you do not lock your bag, TSA can open it without permission.

Where is the best place to buy a TSA lock the day before my flight?

A nearby Walmart, Target, or Best Buy is your fastest option. Call ahead to confirm they have TSA locks in stock. If no big-box store is nearby, an airport shop will have them, though you will pay more.

Do TSA locks work on all luggage?

Most TSA locks fit standard luggage with built-in lock slots or zipper pulls. Older bags or unusual shapes may not have compatible slots. Measure your bag's lock area before ordering, or buy from a retailer that accepts returns if the lock does not fit.

How much should I expect to spend on a TSA lock?

A single TSA lock costs $8 to $15 online, $12 to $20 at big-box stores, and $15 to $30 at airport shops. Packs of two or three locks cost less per lock — usually $5 to $10 each. Specialty luggage stores charge $15 to $25 per lock.