If your bag is unlocked, then our officer will simply open and screen the baggage if any item alarms. However, if you decide to lock your checked baggage and TSA cannot open it through other means, then the locks may have to be cut. For soft-sided baggage, this process will not damage your zippers or zipper pulls.

In 2026, the TSA will only cut your lock if they need to perform a physical inspection of your bag and the lock is not "TSA-Approved." TSA-approved locks (identifiable by the "Travel Sentry" red diamond logo) are designed with a master keyhole that allows security officers to open, inspect, and relock your bag without damage. If you use a standard padlock or a high-security non-approved lock, and your bag triggers an X-ray alert—perhaps due to a dense item like a power bank, a metal water bottle, or "perfectly packed" electronics—officers are legally authorized to sever the lock to complete their search. They will not reimburse you for a destroyed lock. For 2026 travelers, a high-value "pro-tip" is that if you find a "Notice of Baggage Inspection" inside your bag and your lock is gone, it means your bag was flagged. To avoid "luggage nightmares," always use a TSA-compliant lock or use heavy-duty zip ties, which officers can easily replace if they need to look inside.