Security works by slowing down thieves. No lock is perfect, but a travel lock gives you extra time and a better chance to protect your belongings. Its main job is to deter theft.
Whether you’re in a hostel or on a train, thieves look for easy targets. If your bag has a locked zipper or is secured to a luggage rack, it shows you’re not an easy mark. Most opportunists will move on to another bag.
TSA rules matter if you check your bag. Your lock must be one that security agents can open with a master key, such as a Travel Sentry-approved lock.
If security agents can’t open your lock, they’ll cut it off. For carry-ons, you can use non-TSA locks for added security, but you’ll need to remove them before screening.
The Security Capability Profile
This lock is designed to stop thieves from tampering with zippers or quickly grabbing your bag.
Shackle vs. Cable Loops
There are rigid and flexible options.
- Rigid shackles are tougher to cut, but don’t fit everywhere. They typically work only with certain zipper sliders.
- Flexible cables can go through several zipper pulls or fit around oddly shaped hasps. They’re more versatile for locking your bag to a hostel locker or securing gear with unusual shapes.
Combination vs. Keyed
You can choose between remembering a code or keeping track of a key.
- Combination locks don’t need a key, so you can’t lose one. The downside is you might forget the code, or the dials could be hard to see in low light.
- Keyed: Faster to open. Risk: If you lose the tiny key, you are locked out. A combo is generally preferred for travel.
The “Tether” Strategy
Stop the snatch. A retractable cable lock lets you tether your bag to a fixed object (a table leg, a train rack, a bench).
This keeps someone from walking off with your bag while you’re sleeping or eating. This is often more useful than just locking the zippers.
Top Security Locks for Travelers
We’ve identified different security options so you can decide whether you need zipper protection, bag tethering, or both. These rankings aggregate user satisfaction to help you filter for quality. The Exceptional and Excellent tiers are the most reliable choices, according to consensus. Good models are viable, but check reviews for specific caveats. See our Methodology.
