Luggage thefts are a common occurrence, and in America alone, one can read about thousands of bags getting misplaced or stolen. As unfortunate as it is, the only thing that a responsible traveler can do is, secure it with a strong luggage lock.
That is because even airport workers and TSA agents have been caught stealing luggage. As shocking as it is, travelers need to protect their belongings. Today, we will be reviewing some of the best non-TSA luggage locks in the market.
We have done our homework and research on them before listing them out for our readers. Please note that the luggage lock is not meant to be invincible, but it can slow down thieves from breaking the luggage.
Based on our research, we felt that the ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock is the editor’s choice. It is a sturdy lock infused with incredible features like a lock body made of hardened steel and special manipulation protection.
We also felt that the MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup is the runner-up. It comes with high-tech fingerprint sensor technology, an auto-recognition function, and IP66 weatherproof protection against dust and water.
Our Top Choice (our top three)
Quick Navigation
- ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock (Editor’s choice)
- MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup (Runner Up)
- Lumintrail 4 Foot 3mm Braided Steel Coated Security Cable Luggage Lock (Budget Pick)
Best Non-TSA Luggage Locks
Below are some of the best non-TSA luggage locks that we reviewed, researched, and analyzed in the market. We have ranked them based on their performance in the lab. These are some of the options for non-TSA luggage locks that can be used at home or traveling by flight.
Please read to know more about the best locks, who are they meant for, and how did we choose the lock. Without further ado, let us read the given post and understand more about the locks.
1. ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock – Editor’s Choice
The ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock is our editor’s choice on the list of the best non-TSA luggage locks. It is our best non-TSA luggage locks for travel. ABUS has been in the market for several years now and has been making amazing models in the market.
ABUS has been offering many security solutions that help travelers, homeowners, and students safe and secure, since 1924.
We were taken aback by the robust build quality of the lock. It is just simply fabulous and can’t be broken come what may. Our team members did their best to break it open, and simply could not.
It also has hardened steel protection. The solid hardened steel jacket and the hardened special alloy shackle offer additional protection against physical attack. We were delighted to note that the precision locking mechanism offered special manipulation protection.
It provides padlocks for any application from OSHA-approved safety locks to heavy-duty Granit padlocks. There are also disc locks produced from brass, steel, and aluminum. We also found that they have a resettable combination, rekeyable, and keyed-alike locks.
Overall, this model comes with amazing features. We have noticed that several combination locks have an issue where we could wedge a pick into the dials. Besides, we could also move into the hasp socket to unlock it, but not with this lock.
- Robust build quality.
- A brand for value.
- Hardened steel protection.
- Hardened special alloy shackle.
- Precision locking mechanism.
- OSHA-approved safety locks.
- It is expensive.
Bottom line:
The ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock is our editor’s choice. It comes with some marvelous features like it is a brand for value, having hardened steel protection, and a hardened special alloy shackle.
2. MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup – Runner Up
The MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup is second on our list of the best non-TSA luggage locks. It is the best non-TSA luggage locks for luggage. When travelers are looking for a sublime lock model, then it has to be this unit.
We were happy to use the lock because it did not come with those cumbersome numbers, as the finger is the key. Besides, we did not have to worry about losing the key or it getting stolen. Users need to set the administrator fingerprint after getting the lock.
This is something that readers need to note otherwise, anyone can unlock it with any fingerprint. They have provided a backup key as an emergency opening option. We noted that the model came with a sturdy structure and was immensely waterproof too.
It is made from aluminum alloy and the lock beam is made of stainless steel. This helps it offer superior cut resistance. We noted that the seamless joint is great as an anti-thief, anti-dust, and anti-erosion.
The IP66 weatherproof protects against dust and water. However, we are not sure because we did not test the outdoor usage for rain or snow. A notable feature of this lock model is that it is USB rechargeable.
It comes equipped with a 240MAH lithium battery that has low power consumption and a long standby time. We were amazed to know that it can unlock about 2500 times in one charge.
There is a 360° fingerprint recognition feature that can be used by kids to the elderly. There is no need for an app, key, or Bluetooth. We needed to follow the direction in the guidebook to enter the fingerprints.
Our team member needed to move his finger at multiple angles. This helps for better recognition when unlocking. Apart from being used by travelers some of the wide applications for the lock are for indoor and outdoor use, suitcases, gym lockers, golf bags, handbags, and school lockers.
- Sturdy design.
- Keyless fingerprint padlock.
- Superior cut resistance.
- IP66 weatherproof.
- 240MAH lithium battery.
- Simple to work & use.
- Wide range of applications.
- The scanner doesn’t always work.
Bottom line:
The MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup is our runner-up. It comes with several features including a sturdy design, keyless fingerprint padlock, superior cut resistance, and IP66 weatherproof.
3. Lumintrail 4 Foot 3mm Braided Steel Coated Security Cable Luggage Lock – Budget Pick
The Lumintrail 4 Foot 3mm Braided Steel Coated Security Cable Luggage Lock is our budget pick. This has to be the best non-TSA lock for international travel. Let us read about its feature to know more about it.
It comes with a double-looped to accommodate the padlocks, u-locks, or disc-locks. We tested with each of the locks and found that the unit worked like a charm. We did not feel any issues with it there.
We noted that it comes with a vinyl covering that protects against rust and scratching. These can happen when travelers move around from home to the airport, and then the hotels, and so on. Besides, travelers, the lock is ideal for gates and fences, skateboards, sports equipment, grills & lawnmowers.
To help users they have provided the measurement of the cable at 4ft length, 3mm diameter. Overall, they are nicely made and come in the same size. We noticed that they can with good control, and the clear plastic coating was a nice thing.
- Superb build quality.
- Braided steel construction.
- Strong cut resistance.
- Double-looped.
- Vinyl covering.
- Quite cheap.
- The cable is thin.
Bottom line:
The Lumintrail 4 Foot 3mm Braided Steel Coated Security Cable Luggage Lock is our budget pick. This model has exceptional features like superb build quality, braided steel construction, strong cut resistance, and comes with double-looped.
4. Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box – Best Personal Travel Safe
During our research for the best non-TSA luggage locks, we also came across some exciting products that we thought of mentioning about. The Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box is a portable safe lock box.
We found this lockbox quite handy and useful for frequent travelers. The model comes with some unique features and locking abilities. Our participants noted that the model is ideal for use as a personal safe for placing small items in there.
Initially, we found it somewhat tricky, but figured it out eventually. This might be slightly challenging for first-time users. We noticed that it comes with an earbud/charging cable access port to listen to music or charge devices when it is locked.
We are delighted to say that is produced from a shock-absorbing foam. Moreover, the small lock box is designed to be water-resistant. We felt that the cable can be also used as a convenient carrying handle.
The integrated braided cable is 20 inches in length. A notable feature of the model is the cable access port that can be used to charge devices and also for on-the-go enjoyment. Our team member took this product on a trip, and he was highly impressed with it.
He had ordered two of these models but only received one. He immediately contacted customer support, and they sent a replacement model. He suggests that the box was quite useful when moving around in a new place as he did not have to worry about anything and enjoy the trip & ride.
He never had issues with the customs either, which was the most important thing, and he liked the inside foam padding. We felt that he was spot on, but also thought that the model could have come with more space.
- Sublime build quality.
- Water-resistant construction.
- Four-digit dial combination.
- Integrated cable locks.
- Cable access port.
- More space inside.
Bottom line:
The Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box is the best personal travel safe. The model comes with a sublime build quality, a water-resistant construction, and a four-digit dial combination that can be effortlessly set.
5. SAFEGO Portable Indoor/Outdoor Lock Box Safe – Best Airline non-TSA Luggage Lock
Our next product on the list of the best non-TSA luggage locks is the SAFEGO Portable Indoor/Outdoor Lock Box Safe. We were amazed to read the ratings of this product among the safes online. Readers will be astounded to know that 95% of reviews are 4 or 5 stars.
The safe box comes with an earphone/charger access that allowed us to listen to music or charge devices while securely locked. There is an open safe, which can be used with the help of the resettable 3-digit custom combination code or unique key.
Our participants and team members as usual go on to break open the lock safe. But they could not because of the solid build quality. We were simply amazed to see the quality of the products used here.
The heavy-duty, 17-inch adjustable cable can be used to securely lock and used as a handle to tote your lockbox. It comes in 6 different colors, including gold, white, pink, black, green, and blue.
Our team member was delighted using the lockbox because he could store a wide range of items in there. Some of them include phones, keys, wallets, cameras, glasses, jewelry, cash, and medicines.
The model is ideal for use during travel, beaches, dorms, homes, cruises, and hotels.
- Robust design.
- Stable build quality.
- Heavy-duty, 17-inch adjustable cable.
- Earphone/charger access.
- 6 amazing colors.
- Wide range of applications.
- The bottom is narrow.
Bottom line:
The SAFEGO Portable Indoor/Outdoor Lock Box Safe is the best airline non-TSA luggage locks. The lock box comes infused with features including a robust design, a stable build quality, and a heavy-duty, 17-inch adjustable cable.
6. Lumintrail Combination Padlock w/ 4′ Braided Steel Security Cable – Best Steel Security Cable
No products found.
Our final product on the list of the best non-TSA luggage locks is the Lumintrail Combination Padlock w/ 4′ Braided Steel Security Cable. This is the second product from Lumintrail on our list because of its exceptional, and powerful locking features.
It is safe to say that they are the toughest luggage locks around. Our team members felt that it is an awesome lock based on the tests that we put it through. It was able to withstand most of the tests, which is a good sign.
Our participant used it for occasional travel, and when he went to the gym. He found it pretty useful as he resides in a shared hostel room. Besides, we also thought that it is helpful for using on the luggage for international trips as well.
This model comes with a 4-code combination lock. We were quite amazed at the weight of the lock because it was quite heavy. No wonder it took so long to get through it, which ranked very high among the locks that we have tried to break open.
However, some users felt that the weight of the lock was too much to be placed on their luggage, which we find weird. It is heavy, and that is what makes it ideal to protect your belongings.
We may advise you to know what you are getting so that it can suit what you are using it for. All in all, it is a tremendous lock that comes with everything that any traveler could have wanted to have in it.
- Sleek design.
- Sturdily built.
- Easy to set up.
- Simple to use.
- Amazing features.
- It does have some weak links.
Bottom line:
The Lumintrail Combination Padlock w/ 4′ Braided Steel Security Cable is the best steel security cable lock for luggage. The lock comes with features like a sleek design, is sturdily built, and is easy to set up.
Buying Guide – Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best non-TSA luggage locks
Below are some factors to consider when choosing the best non-TSA luggage locks for national & international travel. We focused on these factors when researching about the locks for the luggage.
These factors played a crucial role in helping us find the best non-TSA locks.
- Flawless design
The non-TSA locks should come with a flawless design. By flawless we mean that it should be easy to hold, lock, and use. We were very particular about that. As we researched the locks, we did see that they have a slick design that makes them ideal to place on the luggage.
We can assure you that the above lock models on the list are compatible with any kind of luggage and can get the job done properly. In this case, we felt that the ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock did a good job.
- Simple to setup
The setup of the lock is another factor that we were strict about during testing. We used them on several pieces of luggage like briefcases, suitcases, and even backpacks. This helped us to get the right picture of the locks.
Most of the models that we tried were able to fit in elegantly. Besides, the locks came with a simple lock code that was simple to use and implement on them. To use the right code, please avoid using the birthday date, sequential numbers, years, and digits of your Social Security Number.
Here we felt that the MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup was good as they come with the fingerprint option.
- Weather-resistant
The weather-resistant is flexible because we are focusing on using them on luggage. Keeping in mind that the luggage is mostly going to be dealt with indoors. Of course, during national & international travel, the luggage will have to be outside for a temporary period of time.
We have ensured that the lock models are weather-resistant. Though some are not, they can withstand rain and snow for a brief period of time, which is sufficient. We felt that the Lumintrail Combination Padlock w/ 4′ Braided Steel Security Cable satisfies the feature.
- Customer support
Customer support is crucial for any product. It is vital that the products come with fantastic customer support. We came across some feedback about poor customer support, which we verified, and were stunned to know that the maker responded to our queries well.
So, please do not trust every negative comment or feedback that you see on online retailers. So, it is vital that customer service is taken care of because users never know when they might it.
The SAFEGO Portable Indoor/Outdoor Lock Box Safe came with good customer support.
Who is this for?
When travelers travel a lot, unplanned, the odds of having to leave the luggage behind for some time arise. It could be because they want to use the bathroom or washroom. Perhaps, they want to take a small break from the hectic travel.
Some when travelers travel for many days continuously, then it takes a toll on their body, and they may want to refresh and take rest. During these situations, they tend to become carefree, and it could prove to be dangerous.
This is especially when they have the valuables with them. To prevent the baggage from being opened without consent, we suggest users place a reliable luggage lock. Though some suitcase models come with a built-in lock, it might be better to have a traditional lock in there.
The non-TSA luggage locks are for those who belong to any of the following categories. Read on to learn more.
- Checking the luggage often
Travelers have several reasons for using a luggage lock. Some use a lock to prevent the luggage from opening suddenly, while other travelers use it to prevent theft. However, just because there is a lock, there is no assurance that it can’t be opened.
Whether travelers decide to go in for a TSA-approved or non-TSA-approved, it does not make much of a difference. That is because the Transportation Security Administration suggests that travelers have their valuables such as jewelry, money, identification, and electronics with them.
That means it should be placed in a carry-on bag. These things can fit inside a medium-sized carry-on backpack or suitcase. This depends on the personality and preference of the traveler. Most of the luggage goes through screening, and unless the TSA agents feel that they need to open the bag, they do so, otherwise, they don’t.
Our team member who flies nationally every month noticed that the TSA does not open his bag. However, TSA agents are particular about international travelers and screen their bags. If the TSA agents have opened the bag, they leave a notice inside the bag. Moreover, you can also use a good stair climbing cart to assist you as the time climbing stairs with heavy load.
- Storing luggage on public transportation
Whether travelers are inside America or abroad, traveling on public transportation becomes a necessity. It could be a train or bus. This is when it is vital that they have the baggage locked up safely.
When traveling on a bus, then they have to store the baggage below inside the baggage compartment. Likewise, when they travel on a train, the baggage can be stored inside the overhead bin above the seats.
Travelers will want to keep an eye on the baggage when traveling because one never knows about their fellow travelers. We strongly do not recommend traveling on public transportation without locking the luggage.
- Staying in a hostel
Travelers choose to stay in a shared hostel as it works out quite cheaply. In this sense, the rent and accommodation are shared between each of the members. This helps in reducing the traveling costs and budget.
It is common and many Americans do that when they visit South-East Asian countries that have pretty decent shared hostels. This is when it is vital that the luggage has a proper lock on it. Remember, that staying with strangers may not be the most ideal thing to do, but it is vital the baggage is locked.
- Living in a luxury resort
The same applies when applies when living in a luxury resort as travelers never know the intent of the housekeeping. Most of the thefts tend to happen when nobody is present in the room. It is best to have a proper lock on the luggage when staying at a luxurious resort.
It is better to be safe than sorry. Most of the hotel rooms do not come with CCTV inside the room and there is no proof that something has been stolen from the luggage. Though the hotels come with a safe, hotel employees do have access to the safe.
Why TSA-approved Luggage Locks may not get the job done?
During our research, we came across some interesting facts and wanted to verify them. In our previous post on TSA-approved locks, we spoke very highly about them. Though they are good and provide travelers with the convenience of not having locks broken, there are some flaws.
Sometimes it might be tempting to make use of a luggage lock approved by the Transportation Security Administration. Maybe you could consider using a bag that comes with a zipper. But the deal is that the bags may not be completely secure.
It is not surprising to note that since 9/11, passengers flying inside or outside the US, have been asked to use TSA-approved locks, which can be unlocked by master keys used by TSA agents. However, hotel staff, baggage handlers, and others can’t open these locks.
The master key in the TSA-approved lock is supposed to be 100% secure. For now, the cryptographic backdoors allow law enforcement to investigate activity on smartphones. Moreover, no luggage lock is foolproof either and a determined thief may break in.
So, what should be done by travelers to secure their luggage? That is when they might consider using the opulent choices mentioned in this review. We highly recommend some of the models that we tested, reviewed, and researched as they are stable, and can protect the luggage.
Of course, the best security measure is to keep valuables inside a carry-on bag.
We hope were able to convince you.
How have we tested for the best non-TSA luggage locks?
Product Name | Flawless design | Simple to setup | Weather-resistant | Customer support | Overall score | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock | 98 | 99 | 99 | 98 | 98.5 | Check Price |
MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup | 98 | 97 | 98 | 96 | 97.25 | Check Price |
Lumintrail 4 Foot 3mm Braided Steel Coated Security Cable Luggage Lock | 97 | 96 | 97 | 96 | 96.5 | Check Price |
Master Lock Portable Small Lock Box | 96 | 97 | 96 | 96 | 96.25 | Check Price |
SAFEGO Portable Indoor/Outdoor Lock Box Safe | 96 | 94 | 96 | 96 | 95.5 | Check Price |
Lumintrail Combination Padlock w/ 4' Braided Steel Security Cable | 94 | 92 | 96 | 97 | 94.75 | No products found. |
We were extremely happy to work, test, and review these products because they can with immense potential. Most of them were able to stand the testing phase where we used tools like cutting pliers, hammers, and so on.
They were able to take a beating out of it. Will some have got broken after a certain period (10-15 minutes), and some did not? As we have already said before, no lock is safe. However, we have included everything on the list.
We selected the locks that have been used widely among international travelers and others alike. The first thing that we saw was the packaging. We normally do that for all products. We notice the kind of packaging material used when we receive the product from the manufacturer.
That gives us an idea of the dedication and reliability of the product. A product that comes nicely packed is a product that can be delved upon. We get to know that the maker is serious about the product, and more importantly, genuine.
Then we focused on the design of the lock. We wanted to make sure that the lock came with a good design. The design should enable the user to work with it effortlessly. Most of the designs of the models were good, and we found them pretty simple to hold, handle, and place on the luggage.
The weather-resistant feature was not something that we were really keen on having on all the models. That is because the luggage is usually placed inside the trunk of the vehicle, then taken out, and immediately placed inside the airport, which is indoors.
However, during transit, we can find the luggage placed out in the open. If there is a storm or rain, then it would be nice to have a weather-proof lock. Our team members then tested the locks using some tools.
We are happy to say that most of them did well and were able to withstand everything that we tried to abuse, break, and beat the pulp out of them. Although some did break open, we had to use a lot of effort, time, and strength.
It was not easy. For the price of the models, they did extremely well, and we can say that we were highly impressed with them. Lastly, comes the customer support of the non-TSA locks. Though the locks did arrive to us in good, prime, and perfect condition, they may get damaged with use.
It is nice if there is kind of a warranty or replacement offered by the maker. We have provided you with models that come with warranty and replacement. Albeit not all the non-TSA locks come with a warranty or a replacement scheme, which is quite weird.
We are delighted to let you know that the models we choose have incredible customer service. They did respond to our queries and doubts, and the timing was pretty good. They did not take very long to professionally answer the questions.
Why should you trust us?
Our readers can trust us as our main editors have a combined experience of more than 40 years of non-TSA locks in the market. Our main editors have strong connections with some of the reputed US lock manufacturers, and the US military as well.
Our main editor has an affinity towards the mechanisms of locks. He was pleasantly surprised at how tough some of the non-TSA locks came out during testing and were able to withstand the pressure of pliers, cutters, and grinders.
They took everything that was thrown at them with ease. We could make that out from their design and the user feedback. Most of the user feedback on the lock models provided on the list has been great and solid.
Our team members and participants spent a lot of time reviewing, researching, and analyzing the non-TSA locks in the lab. This helped us get a better understanding of the working and capabilities of the non-TSA locks.
We have a new-found respect for the non-TSA locks. Though they might not come approved by the Transportation Security Administration, they were pretty stable throughout the tests. Moreover, some of them come with warranties and replacements.
Moreover, we read through different websites and communicated our doubts & concerns with many lock experts. We also used the suggestions from frequent travelers, and users who travel frequently on both national and international flights in America, and outside the US as well.
We have taken their advice. We came up with the list only after reviewing, testing, and analyzing the locks. The locks have been tried out in the lab, and trying conditions before we ranked them.
Our team members who travel on national airlines used these locks and gave their feedback to us. They were quite impressed and luckily nothing was stolen from their luggage as the locks were able to do their job.
All of the models on the list have been tested, tried, and abused to a certain extent to find out their actual capabilities. We have also provided you with the pros & cons, and the buying guide to help you decide.
We assure you that the information provided in this review is actually correct and is solely based on our testing and reviewing in the lab. Of course, we took the suggestions of our editors, team members, and participants.
FAQs
What is a non-TSA lock?
A non-TSA lock is a lock that has not been approved by the TSA in America, and other countries. When travelers make use of a non-TSA-approved lock on their suitcase or luggage, then the authorities have the right to cut the lock in order to check the baggage.
However, when travelers make use of a TSA-approved lock, the TSA makes use of the universal key to open the luggage, without having to break it open, check the baggage, and then re-lock the luggage so that it remains secure.
Can you use a non-TSA lock on luggage?
Yes, there is no hard and fast that travelers have to only use TSA-approved locks on their luggage or suitcases. They can make use of non-TSA-approved locks too. However, as we mentioned throughout the post, when the Transportation Security Administration wants to check the luggage, they have the right to break it open and do so.
Can I use non-TSA locks for international travel?
Yes, travelers can use non-TSA locks for international travel. That should not come as an issue with traveling. Because you have nothing to worry about as nothing prevents you from using these locks.
Travelers can resort to using any kind of lock that they want to, provided that the TSA reserves the right to break the lock when they feel the need to check their baggage. When you are a frequent flyer with less luggage, then we see no issues with a non-TSA lock.
What is the difference between a TSA lock and a normal lock?
The difference is in the name itself. A TSA lock is approved by the Transportation Security Administration and comes with a universal key that can be used for everything. Yes, it is safe. There is no need to worry about the valuables in the luggage.
The normal lock comes with the traditional locking system where travelers need to make use of the lock & key. Besides, the TSA locks have a specific key that can open the TSA-approved locks to the authorities.
Can customs open locked luggage?
The Transportation Security Administration has worked and coordinated with lock manufacturers for the benefit of the passengers and security agents. Now, they can easily open the locks with a master key, without having to break the locks.
Do airports open your luggage?
Most of the airports do not open the luggage unless they feel the need to do so. That normally happens when travelers enter from other countries with heavy baggage. Otherwise, national travelers do not have their luggage opened mostly.
Thanks to the scanning machines, the contents of the suitcases, backpacks, and other items are done already. However, they can open or check the baggage during the screening process. When the luggage has been opened, then TSA places a notice of inspection inside the luggage.
Conclusion
We have come to the end of our review on the best non-TSA luggage locks. We hope that you enjoyed reading the post and were able to make up your mind. We also hope that you were able to understand how the locks work, and how we ended up choosing the above models.
Through this write-up, we have provided you with the product description and the pros & cons as well. This data can help you learn more about non-TSA locks. Though no popular as their TSA counterparts, they do a decent job of ensuring that the contents inside your bag are safe.
We thought that the ABUS 190CS/60 High-Security Solid Steel Combination Padlock is the editor’s choice is our editor’s choice because it comes featured with special alloy lock bodies, tightly braided and sheathed steel cables, and hardened steel cable lock ends.
We also felt that the MYPIN Fingerprint Lock with Key Backup is our runner-up. It comes with high-tech fingerprint sensor technology, an auto-recognition function, and IP66 weatherproof protection against dust and water.
If you have any queries, please don’t hesitate to write to us in the comment section below. We will be delighted to hear from you and will do our best to answer you as quickly as possible.
Leave a Reply