Which TSA Luggage Locks Are Actually Worth Buying?

RBE top pick

Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 Travel Sentry Approved Combination Padlock

Check price on Amazon See why it wins Compare all

The Pacsafe names its inspection system, lists a deadbolt mechanism and materials, and carries a 2-year accessory warranty. The Master Lock costs less and its flexible cable shackle fits awkward zipper pulls, but Master Lock itself classes it as basic security.

A TSA luggage lock is a small padlock that airport security can open with a master key, so your bag gets inspected without the lock being cut off. The catch is that the lock has to be one TSA recognizes, and many listings are vague about that. We compared six popular locks from six brands, from a deadbolt padlock to flexible cable locks, using only what each maker publishes. Keep expectations realistic: these are deterrents for zippers, not high-security locks.

RBE top pick

Pacsafe

Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 Travel Sentry Approved Combination Padlock

Buy it

A sturdy, clearly documented Travel Sentry padlock with a deadbolt mechanism and a 2-year accessory warranty.

Best for: Most travelers who want a well-documented, solid padlock for checked bag zippers.

$ · budget

Why we like it

• Pacsafe names it as Travel Sentry Approved, which is one of the two systems TSA holds master keys for.
• It lists a deadbolt locking mechanism and a 3-dial resettable combination.
• Materials are stated as zinc alloy and plastic with stainless steel, and Pacsafe gives a 2-year warranty on accessories.

Know before buying

• At 3 inches tall and 0.16 pounds it is the largest and heaviest lock here.
• A rigid shackle can be harder to fit through small or tightly spaced zipper pulls than a cable.
• Three dials give 1,000 combinations, the same as most TSA locks, so it is still a deterrent rather than high security.
• It showed a notify-me option on the maker page, so stock may vary.

Check price on Amazon Read our detailed assessment ↓

Master Lock

Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination TSA Lock

Buy it

An inexpensive TSA-accepted lock with a flexible braided steel shackle that threads through awkward zipper pulls.

Best for: Budget buyers whose bags have chunky or awkward zipper pulls.

$ · budget

Why we like it

• Master Lock says it allows TSA inspection and relocking without damage and is recognized as a TSA-approved luggage lock in 29 countries.
• The flexible braided steel shackle, 1-1/2 inches long, fits through thick or offset zipper pulls that a rigid shackle cannot.
• It has a set-your-own three-digit combination and comes in assorted colors for spotting your bag.

Know before buying

• Master Lock rates it Basic Security, for low-risk environments.
• The shackle is a 1/8-inch (3 mm) cable, which is easy to cut with basic tools.
• Orders from Master Lock's own store ship only to the contiguous United States.
• Weight, body material and warranty are not stated on the product page.

Check price on Amazon Read our detailed assessment ↓

Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek Travel Safe 3-Dial TSA Lock

Buy it

A compact zinc alloy padlock that Eagle Creek lists as Travel Sentry Certified, with full size and weight specs.

Best for: Travelers who want a light, clearly documented Travel Sentry padlock from a luggage brand.

$ · budget

Why we like it

• Eagle Creek lists it as Travel Sentry Certified and explains that TSA screeners can open it with special codes and tools.
• It measures a stated 2.5 x 1.2 inches and weighs 2.2 oz (62 g), lighter than the Pacsafe.
• The zinc alloy body has a 3-dial combination, and the page links to combination-setting instructions.

Know before buying

• No warranty term is stated on the product page itself.
• There is no deadbolt or other mechanism detail listed.
• It comes in a single color, which does not help you spot your bag.
• A rigid shackle may not fit every zipper pull.

Check price on Amazon Read our detailed assessment ↓

Ricardo Beverly Hills

Ricardo Beverly Hills TSA Lock

It depends

The lightest lock here, with a side window that makes the numbers easy to read, but no named inspection system.

Best for: Weight-conscious travelers who mainly want an easy-to-read lock for their zippers.

$ · budget

Why we like it

• At a stated 0.05 pounds (0.02 kg) and 2.5 x 1.25 x 0.5 inches, it adds almost nothing to your bag.
• A side window frames high-contrast numbers, so the combination is easy to read.
• Ricardo lists a metal shackle and describes the lock as 100% TSA-accepted, resettable without tools.

Know before buying

• The page does not say whether it uses Travel Sentry or Safe Skies.
• Body material is not stated beyond the metal shackle.
• No warranty term is stated on the product page.
• Its claim to stand up to luggage handlers is not backed by any stated test.

Find it on Amazon Read our detailed assessment ↓

Briggs & Riley

Briggs & Riley TSA Cable Luggage Lock (Metal)

It depends

A small TSA-accepted cable lock that suits Briggs & Riley owners, with very few published specs.

Best for: Briggs & Riley luggage owners who want a matching lock and do not need detailed specs.

$ · budget

Why we like it

• Briggs & Riley describes it as TSA accepted and designed for securing zipper compartments on checked or carry-on luggage.
• The flexible cable and three-digit combination give keyless use and fit around zipper pulls.
• It comes in black or olive, and free embossed initials are offered.

Know before buying

• The page does not name the inspection system, cable length, dimensions, weight or materials beyond metal.
• No warranty term is stated on the lock's product page.
• It costs more than the Master Lock while documenting less.
• A cable lock is easier to cut than a solid shackle.

Check price on Amazon Read our detailed assessment ↓

We'd skip it

NOMATIC

NOMATIC TSA Lock

Skip it

A TSA lock sold with marketing copy but no published materials, size, dial count or inspection system.

Best for: No one choosing on specs; buy a lock whose maker states its system and materials.

$ · budget

Why we like it

• NOMATIC describes it as a TSA-approved luggage lock.
• It is cheap and designed to work with NOMATIC bags and luggage.
• Its product photo shows a three-dial combination padlock.

Know before buying

• The product page lists no materials, dimensions, weight or shackle details.
• It does not say whether it uses Travel Sentry or Safe Skies.
• Its copy says it meets all security requirements without saying which ones.
• NOMATIC's warranty policy lists accessories at 1 year, the shortest coverage of any lock with a stated term here.

See our pick instead Find it on Amazon anyway Read our detailed assessment ↓

How we judged the field

Five things matter in a TSA luggage lock. First is whether the maker names its inspection system, Travel Sentry or Safe Skies, because those are the locks TSA holds master keys for. Second is the shackle: a flexible cable fits more zipper pulls, while a rigid shackle is harder to cut. Third is the combination and mechanism, since a deadbolt or clear dial design is easier to trust and use. Fourth is size and weight, which matter on small zippers and light bags. Fifth is warranty, which ranges from nothing stated to two years.

The field splits into solid shackle padlocks, flexible cable locks, and locks sold with minimal information. We picked six widely sold locks from six brands, including two from luggage makers and one from a dedicated lock maker. If your suitcase already has an integrated lock, see our checked luggage and kids’ luggage comparisons for which cases include one.

The Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 is the best-documented lock in this group, and that is why it wins. Pacsafe names it as Travel Sentry Approved, which matters because TSA holds master keys under agreements with Travel Sentry and Safe Skies. It lists a deadbolt locking mechanism and a 3-dial resettable combination, and states the materials as zinc alloy and plastic with stainless steel. Pacsafe offers a 2-year warranty on accessories, the longest stated coverage among these locks. The trade-offs come from its build. At 3 x 1.3 x 0.8 inches and 0.16 pounds it is the largest and heaviest lock here, and a rigid shackle may not fit small or tightly spaced zipper pulls. Like most TSA locks it has three dials, so it is a deterrent, not a high-security lock. The maker page also showed a notify-me option, so stock may vary. For most travelers locking checked bag zippers, it is the one to buy.

The Master Lock 4688D is the value pick and the most flexible lock to fit. Master Lock says it allows TSA inspection and relocking without damage and is recognized as a TSA-approved luggage lock in 29 countries. Its braided steel shackle is flexible and 1-1/2 inches long, so it threads through thick or offset zipper pulls that a rigid padlock cannot reach, and you set your own three-digit combination. It comes in assorted colors, which helps you spot your bag on a carousel. Master Lock is candid about its limits. It rates the 4688D Basic Security for low-risk environments, and the shackle is a 1/8-inch (3 mm) cable that basic tools can cut. The page does not state weight, body material or a warranty term, and Master Lock’s own store ships only to the contiguous United States. For budget buyers who want a recognized lock that fits awkward zippers, it is a good buy.

The Eagle Creek Travel Safe 3-Dial TSA Lock is a straightforward, well-specified padlock from a luggage brand. Eagle Creek lists it as Travel Sentry Certified and explains that TSA screeners can open it with a special set of codes and tools. It measures a stated 2.5 x 1.2 inches and weighs 2.2 oz (62 g), lighter and smaller than the Pacsafe, with a zinc alloy body and a 3-dial combination. The page links to instructions for setting your combination, which helps since that step trips up many buyers. What it lacks is detail beyond the basics. No warranty term is stated on the product page itself, no mechanism detail like a deadbolt is listed, and it comes in a single color. A rigid shackle may not fit every zipper pull. If you want a light padlock that names its inspection system and states its size and weight, it is a solid buy and a close alternative to the Pacsafe.

The Ricardo Beverly Hills TSA Lock is the lightest lock in this comparison. Ricardo lists it at 0.05 pounds (0.02 kg) and 2.5 x 1.25 x 0.5 inches, so it adds almost nothing to a bag. A side window frames high-contrast numbers, which makes the combination easy to read, and you can reset the three-digit code without tools. Ricardo describes it as 100% TSA-accepted and lists a strong metal shackle. The gaps are in the details. The page does not say whether it uses the Travel Sentry or Safe Skies system, does not state the body material, and gives no warranty term. Its claim that the shackle and lock stand up to luggage handlers and conveyor belts is not backed by any stated test. If you value low weight and readable numbers, it is a reasonable choice; if you want to confirm the inspection system before you buy, the Pacsafe or Eagle Creek is a safer bet.

The Briggs & Riley TSA Cable Luggage Lock (Metal) makes most sense for people who already travel with Briggs & Riley luggage. The maker describes it as a lightweight TSA accepted combination cable lock for securing zipper compartments on checked or carry-on luggage, with a three-digit combination for keyless use. The flexible cable fits around zipper pulls, and it comes in black or olive with free embossed initials. The problem is how little the page tells you. It does not name the inspection system, the cable length, dimensions, weight or materials beyond metal, and no warranty term is stated on the lock’s own page. It also costs more than the Master Lock 4688D while documenting less, and a cable is easier to cut than a solid shackle. If you want a lock that matches your Briggs & Riley bags, it does the job. Otherwise, the Master Lock gives you a cable lock with more published detail for less.

The NOMATIC TSA Lock is the one to skip, not because it is necessarily a bad lock but because its maker gives you almost nothing to judge it on. The product page describes it as a TSA-approved luggage lock that meets all security requirements and integrates with NOMATIC bags and luggage. It does not list materials, dimensions, weight, shackle details or the number of dials, and it does not say whether it uses the Travel Sentry or Safe Skies system. The phrase about meeting all security requirements is not tied to any named standard. NOMATIC’s warranty policy lists accessories at 1 year, shorter than Pacsafe’s stated 2 years for accessories. The product photo shows a three-dial padlock, but a lock is a small purchase where the inspection system and build are the whole point. For the same budget, the Pacsafe, Master Lock and Eagle Creek locks all state far more about what you are getting.

Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 Travel Sentry Approved Combination Padlock vs Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination TSA Lock: which should you buy?

The Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 and the Master Lock 4688D are both recognized TSA locks at budget prices, but they suit different bags. The Pacsafe is a rigid padlock with a listed deadbolt mechanism, a named Travel Sentry system, stated zinc alloy and stainless steel materials and a 2-year accessory warranty. The Master Lock uses a flexible 1/8-inch braided steel cable, threads through awkward zipper pulls and costs less, but Master Lock rates it basic security and does not publish its weight or warranty.

Choose the Pacsafe if your zipper pulls have holes large enough for a rigid shackle and you want the sturdier, better-documented lock. Choose the Master Lock if your bag has thick, offset or small zipper pulls, or if you want a multi-color set to spot bags quickly. Either way, keep valuables in your carry-on, because no luggage lock stops a determined thief.

Who should buy which

• Most travelers: the Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 Travel Sentry Approved Combination Padlock. It names its Travel Sentry system, lists a deadbolt mechanism and materials, and has a 2-year accessory warranty.
• Budget buyers with chunky zippers: the Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination TSA Lock. Its flexible braided steel shackle threads through pulls a rigid shackle cannot.
• Spec-minded travelers who want a light padlock: the Eagle Creek Travel Safe 3-Dial TSA Lock. It is Travel Sentry Certified with stated size, weight and zinc alloy body at 62 g.
• Ultralight packers: the Ricardo Beverly Hills TSA Lock. It weighs a stated 0.05 pounds and has an easy-to-read side window.
• Briggs & Riley luggage owners: the Briggs & Riley TSA Cable Luggage Lock (Metal). It matches the luggage and its cable suits zipper compartments.

What to look for

• A named inspection system: look for Travel Sentry or Safe Skies in the listing, since TSA holds master keys only for those systems.
• Shackle type: a flexible cable fits more zipper pulls, while a rigid shackle is harder to cut.
• Zipper pull fit: check the size of the holes in your zipper pulls before choosing a shackle diameter.
• Stated materials: zinc alloy bodies and steel shackles are common, and a listing that names them is more trustworthy.
• Readable dials: a side window or high-contrast numbers make setting and opening the lock easier.
• Warranty: stated terms vary from none to two years, so check before you buy.

Our final take

For most travelers, the Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 is the TSA lock to buy: it names its Travel Sentry system, lists a deadbolt mechanism and materials, and carries a 2-year accessory warranty. If your bag has chunky or awkward zipper pulls, the cheaper Master Lock 4688D and its flexible steel cable is the better fit, as long as you accept its basic security rating. The Eagle Creek Travel Safe is a light, well-documented alternative, the Ricardo lock suits ultralight packers, and the Briggs & Riley cable lock suits owners of that luggage. Skip the NOMATIC TSA Lock, which publishes no materials, size or inspection system. Whatever you choose, keep valuables in your carry-on.

Deciding between the top two? See our head-to-head: Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 Travel Sentry Approved Combination Padlock vs Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination TSA Lock.

More in Travel Gear

TSA Luggage Locks, Explained Plain-English guide → Pacsafe Prosafe 1000 Travel Sentry Approved Combination Padlock vs Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination TSA Lock Head-to-head → The Best Weekender Bags: 6 Compared (and One to Skip) The Best Carry-On Luggage: 4 Compared (and One to Skip) The Best Checked Luggage: 4 Large Suitcases Compared (and One to Skip) Garment Bags: Which to Buy and Which to Skip