Will TSA break my suitcase lock?

Checking in for a Flight The TSA has worked with these manufacturers so security agents are able to open any of these locks with a master key, but no one else can. If you're using a lock that isn't approved by TSA, agents have the authority to break open that lock to search through a bag.



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The TSA combination lock has been designed to prevent damage to the locked suitcase when it is forcibly opened by the airport authority. The TSA lock can be easily opened and closed by the staff at the airport with a master key.

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Using a suitcase lock makes it more difficult for baggage handlers or strangers to riffle through your goods at the airport. Not to mention, luggage locks are a great way to ensure your personal belongings won't fall out because the zippers are held together.

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If you have used TSA-approved locks or your suitcase has built-in TSA-approved locks, they have a set of master keys. If you're lucky, they will use those master keys to open them. (No guarantees, though.) Otherwise, they'll force the locks open or break the case to get in, if they feel the need to take a look.

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Without access to a master key, baggage handlers, hotel staff and others in the luggage transport chain should not be able to open these locks. Yet that's the fatal flaw – the master key, or backdoor into a supposedly secure system.

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According to the Department of Transportation, luggage theft is a common problem. U.S. airlines reported more than three mishandled bags for every thousand in March. More than 1 million bags were stolen in 2018. It resulted in $1.2 billion in missing valuables.

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Inspection Notices: TSA may inspect your checked baggage during the screening process. If your property is physically inspected, TSA will place a notice of baggage inspection inside your bag. This is to inform you that an officer conducted an inspection of your property.

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Use a lock.
  1. TSA-approved locks can be opened with particular keys held by TSA agents. ...
  2. If you use multiple locks, consider mixing the type of lock you use. ...
  3. If your carry-on bag has a lock on it, be sure to use it when you board the plane.


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A pen can be used to open locked bags. If your luggage needs to be inspected, these locks can be removed by TSA agents using one of several universal keys, and agents can then check contents and re-lock your suitcase. However, locks aren't entirely foolproof.

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While it's understandable that travelers want to lock their baggage to protect their personal belongings, it's also important to understand that TSA officers must be able to inspect baggage and contents when the need arises. That's where TSA recognized locks come in.

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“Of all national airlines, American Airlines lost the most bags in 2022, losing 850 bags per 100,000. That was followed by JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and United Airlines,” Travel and Leisure magazine reported in a recent article published before the holiday meltdown.

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Airlines are legally required to compensate you for lost items and any baggage fees you paid.

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Most comprehensive travel insurance plans include coverage for baggage loss and, if your baggage is not permanently lost or damaged, baggage delay. Some coverage may include the cost of essential items you purchase while you wait for your delayed luggage to be returned.

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