TSA-Approved Lock

TSA-Approved Lock: What It Means

A TSA-approved lock is a luggage lock that airport security officers can open with a special master key. If your checked bag is picked for a hand search, they can open it and lock it again without cutting the lock or damaging your suitcase.

TSA stands for the Transportation Security Administration, the US agency that screens airport baggage. It worked with lock makers to create these locks, which are also called "TSA-accepted" or "TSA-certified" locks.

TSA lock at a glance

Also called

TSA-accepted, TSA-certified, TSA-recognised lock

How to spot it

A red diamond (Travel Sentry) mark on the lock or packaging

Two ways to open

Your own code or key, plus a separate keyhole for security officers' master keys

Code on the lock

A marking such as TSA007 tells officers which master key to use

Where it matters most

Flights to, from and through the US

If your lock isn't approved

Security may cut, break or remove it to inspect the bag

How to spot a TSA lock

  • Red diamond: the Travel Sentry red diamond on the lock or its packaging means it meets TSA-accepted standards. Travel Sentry is one of two lock programmes TSA recognises; the other is Safe Skies.

  • Small keyhole beside the dials: that keyhole is for security's master keys only. There is no spare key for you.

  • A TSA code: a marking such as "TSA007" near the keyhole tells officers which master key fits. See TSA007 lock.

Do you need a TSA lock when flying from India?

  • Flying to or via the US: yes. US security inspects checked bags and may cut a lock it can't open.

  • Other international trips: Travel Sentry says its locks are used by security agencies in more than 80 countries, so a TSA lock is the safe default.

  • Domestic flights in India: a TSA lock isn't required, but it does no harm. If security wants to check your bag, staff may ask you to open it, so keep your code handy.

Whatever the trip, a TSA lock stops casual tampering, but it won't stop a determined thief. Read more in TSA Locks Explained.

TSA locks on WNTR bags

  • Strunk: a built-in TSA quad-lock system across all sizes, integrated into the shell. The Strunk Cabin has two built-in TSA-certified locks.

  • Dawn X Cabin: one built-in TSA-certified combination lock.

Need to set or change your code? Follow How to Set the Number Lock on a Trolley Bag.

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