The decision is ultimately up to you. The TSA strongly recommends that you carry your valuables–such as jewelry, money, identification, and electronics–in a carry-on bag. If you're not packing any valuable items in your checked bag, you don't necessarily need a lock.

Yes, in 2026, you should absolutely lock your suitcase when flying to the USA, but you must use a TSA-approved lock. These locks are marked with a red diamond logo (Travel Sentry) or a similar certification that allows Transportation Security Administration agents to open them using a universal master key. If you use a traditional, non-approved lock, the TSA has the legal authority to cut or break the lock to inspect your bag, often damaging the zipper or the suitcase itself in the process. Locking your bag is recommended to prevent opportunistic theft by baggage handlers or other travelers and to ensure the suitcase doesn't accidentally pop open during transit. In 2026, many high-end suitcases come with integrated TSA-approved combination locks built directly into the frame. For added security, some travelers also use "smart tags" like AirTags inside the locked bag to track its location in real-time, providing an extra layer of peace of mind during the complex international baggage handling process at major hubs like JFK or LAX.