Luggage Locks

For the traveler

Luggage locks can be used for any type of bag, from backpack locks for everyday use to baggage locks for air travel.

Most luggage locks are padlocks that attach to the zippers and can be opened either with a combination or a key. Cable locks are also a popular solution for travel security. You may further find snap hooks that close with a combination lock, or an arrangement of a cable and combination lock. However, some luggage locks are elaborate systems that can be installed in a bag and actually secure the closures.

Safe Travel

Luggage locks are important to keep your possessions safe and secure while traveling. They deter theft and guarantee your privacy because they prevent others from opening your bags.

However, in today’s travel world, airline or bus security may require access to your bags. In the name of security, there are random bag checks and each piece of luggage is sent through a screening device that is used to identify potential dangers.

While you want to secure your luggage against unauthorized access, you also need to allow officials to open your bags. If you lock your luggage security officials have the right to break the lock in order to check the contents of your bags.

To prevent this you’re now expected to travel with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) approved locks on your luggage. These particular locks keep your possessions secure against unauthorized access, but allow officials with a TSA secured access device to gain entry.

Designed for Convenience

Luggage and baggage locks are designed with the traveler in mind. They’re small and lightweight, and most are opened with a combination rather then a key.

The one thing you do have to remember about these devices, though, is that they’re one of the easiest security devices to pick or break. Because these locks are meant for travel, they can’t be designed from the most durable steel or protected by the most elaborate latch system. The truth is, most can be broken quite easily with a hammer or crow bar.

When you’re packing for a trip you should keep the simplicity of your luggage lock in mind. You don’t want to pack anything extremely valuable in a bag that might be stored in steerage and remain out of your sight for extended periods of time.

You should also be careful when you’re opening your baggage. Don’t let a group of people you don’t know see exactly what you’re carrying in your bag. If a thief doesn’t know that there’s something valuable in your luggage they might not bother with it. Note: a luggage lock is a great way to discourage theft, but it certainly isn’t fool proof.