Necessary for screenings at U.S. airports, Stops forcible entry or zippers that won’t close Recognized at a lot of airports around the world You can get them as both built-in and external locks. A lot of the greatest travel luggage these days have built-in TSA combination locks, which makes them great for people who fly a lot or travel over the world. Different kinds of locks for travel suitcases When you want to lock your travel suitcase, you usually have two safe choices

1. Combination Locks That Are Built in Travel Suitcases

Found in high-end and modern travel suitcases

Simple to set and reset

No extra parts needed for a sleek look

Common in the best suitcase for going abroad

Tip: Always pick a combination that is hard to predict, such 000 or 123.

2. TSA Padlocks from the outside

Available in styles with keys or combinations

Easy to replace and use again

It’s great if your suitcase doesn’t have a lock already.

If you choose wisely, both choices will give you substantial protection, and either one could be the ideal decision for your luggage.

The Best Locking Features in Modern Luggage

When looking for the best travel luggage, look for these lock features:

Zipper covers or zippers that don’t pierce

Built-in TSA-approved combination locks

Zipper tracks or locking locks that are stronger

Two zipper heads for putting locks on

Hard shell construction for extra strength

These characteristics make it harder for thieves to steal or damage your things, so they stay safer while you’re on your trip.

How to Stay Safe When Traveling with a Locked Suitcase

It’s crucial to lock your suitcase, but how you use the lock is equally important. Here are some expert tips:

Pick materials that will last

No matter what kind of luggage you use, be sure your vacation suitcase is built of strong material that can’t be easily broken into or cut.

Lock The Heads Of Both Zippers

You can connect both zipper heads with a TSA padlock or a built-in lock. This keeps anyone from even being able to open the suitcase a small bit.

Don’t use locks that aren’t TSA-approved when flying.

During inspections, airport officials may chop off custom or high-security locks that aren’t TSA-approved.

Don’t Tell Anyone Your Lock Code

Don’t tell anyone your combination, and don’t set it to numbers that are easy to guess, such your birth year or room number.

Keep a Hidden Note With a Backup Key or Code

If you use a key lock, keep the backup key in a different place. For combination locks, write down the code in your phone or email, but don’t call it that.

Best Travel Suitcases with Built In Locks

These are some of the top travel bags of 2025, noted for their safety and style:

Samsonite Winfield 3 DLX has a strong polycarbonate shell and a built-in TSA lock in travel suitcases.

Away The Bigger Carry On: stylish, has a TSA lock, and has an optional battery that can be removed.

The Tumi Alpha 3 Expandable has a premium feel, lockable zippers, and a TSA dial lock.

Travelpro Platinum Elite is trusted by airline staff and has a built-in locking system in travel suitcases.

Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner: A cheap choice with a strong lock

These are great for anyone who wish to travel safely without giving up flair or comfort.

Tips for locking things while you travel abroad

When picking the finest bag for international travel, keep in mind that TSA locks are accepted in certain countries but not all.

Use locks that don’t stand out and don’t call attention to yourself.

For extra safety, use an extra luggage strap to keep your suitcase safe.

Put important things like cash and passports in a different bag or beneath your clothes.

You need to plan a little more for international travel, but having the correct suitcase and lock will make your trip lot safer.

Last Thoughts

So, how can you lock a bag in the safest way? The solution is clear:

Use a TSA-approved lock, and if possible, one that is incorporated into a high-quality travel suitcase. Also, follow basic safety rules to keep your things safe. If you’re going on a business trip or planning your next vacation, safe luggage can help you avoid problems before they arise.