Padlocks for Suitcases: Secure Your Luggage with Confidence

Travelling can be one of life’s greatest joys, offering new experiences, cultures, and memories. However, losing your belongings or having them tampered with can cast a shadow on your adventure. Securing your luggage is crucial; you can travel safely with the right tools and knowledge. 

In this blog, we’ll explore various ways to secure your luggage, ensuring your possessions stay safe while you focus on enjoying your trip.

1. Invest in high-quality luggage

Before discussing locks and other security measures, your luggage is essential, starting with the proper foundation. High-quality luggage is built to withstand the rigours of travel and often has enhanced security features.

What to look for:

• Durable materials: Hard-shell suitcases made from polycarbonate or aluminium are more resistant to tampering.
• Reinforced zippers: Double-coil zippers are more challenging to break open.
• Built-in locks: Some high-end suitcases come with integrated locks for added security.

2. Use TSA-approved locks

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines for luggage locks. TSA-approved locks allow security personnel to open and inspect your bags if necessary without damaging the lock or your luggage.

Using TSA-approved locks secures your belongings and ensures your locks remain intact if your luggage needs to be inspected.

3. Secure your luggage internally

While securing the exterior of your luggage is crucial, don’t forget about the inside. Internal security measures can further protect your valuables.

Tips for internal security:

• Packing cubes: Use packing cubes to organise your items. They make it harder for potential thieves to access your belongings quickly.
• Portable safe: Consider a small, portable safe for valuable items like electronics, jewellery, or important documents.
• Conceal valuables: Hide your precious belongings in less obvious places like your shoes or toiletry bags.

4. Use luggage straps

Luggage straps provide an additional layer of security, making it more difficult for anyone to tamper with your bag. They also help prevent your suitcase from accidentally opening.

Recommended luggage straps:

• Heavy-duty straps: Opt for straps made from durable materials with strong buckles.
• Brightly coloured straps add security and make your luggage easier to identify on the carousel.

5. Utilise technology

Modern technology offers several tools to help keep track of your luggage and ensure its safety.

Tech tools for luggage security:

• GPS trackers: Devices like Tile or Apple AirTags can be placed inside your luggage, which can allow you to track its location from your smartphone.
• Smart luggage: Some high-tech suitcases have built-in GPS, electronic locks, and device charging ports, for extra security measures.

6. Label your luggage clearly

Labelling your luggage can help prevent loss and ensure it is returned to you if it is misplaced.

Labelling tips:

• Use a sturdy luggage tag: Make sure your luggage tag is durable and securely attached.
• Include contact information: List your name, phone number, and email address. For security reasons, avoid including your home address.
• Inside label: If the exterior tag gets lost, you should also place a copy of your contact information inside your luggage.

7. Be cautious in transit

While travelling, stay vigilant to protect your luggage from theft or tampering.

In-transit tips:

• Keep your bag close: Keep your carry-on within sight and reach, especially in crowded areas.
• Use hotel safes: Using the room safe to store valuables is essential when staying in hotels.
• Avoid flashing valuables: Be discreet with your valuable items in public places.

Securing your luggage is a critical step in ensuring a stress-free travel experience. By investing in high-quality luggage, using TSA-approved locks, and taking additional security measures, you can travel with confidence. Remember, peace of mind is priceless, and with the proper precautions, you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying your journey.

Check out our recommended selection of top-rated TSA-approved locks and other luggage security products, which can assist you in confidently travelling safely and securely!

Defender DFTSA 35 Luggage Padlock 

This outstanding combi lock is TSA-approved, allowing security authorities to check your luggage without causing damage. They can also relock your coded padlock for continued security. The TSA35 small-number padlock is a perfect travel companion that gives you peace of mind on your travels abroad.

Defender DFCombi 20 Combination Padlock

Defender is the new value range from the makers of Squire padlocks. The Defender combi locks offer fantastic value for money and make combination padlock security affordable. The coded padlocks are great for school and gym lockers.

ABUS 155/20 Combination Padlock

This small security combination padlock is perfect for on-the-go protection, especially when travelling abroad. It can secure a suitcase or protect a smaller item, like a backpack.

Defender DFTSA20T - Twin Pack

The Squire Defender TSA20T Luggage Padlocks—Twin Pack is great for securing personal belongings while travelling. It is especially suitable for trips to the USA. The padlocks are recommended for use with suitcases, travel backpacks, camping gear, and other luggage.

View our range of our travel padlocks today and take the first step towards better bike security.