How to Secure Your Baggage: Locks and Tracking Devices
, by Carolina Batista, 8 min reading time
Securing your baggage is no longer just about throwing on a cheap padlock and hoping for the best. Today’s savvy travellers combine TSA-approved locks, smart locks, and luggage tracking devices to keep their belongings safe and accessible.
When you’re travelling, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your baggage is safe. Whether you’re heading off on a weekend city break or a long-haul holiday, keeping your luggage secure should always be a top priority. In today’s world, it’s not just about using a simple padlock anymore — modern technology offers smart solutions like tracking devices to help you keep tabs on your bags every step of the way.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to secure your baggage using locks and tracking devices to give you peace of mind wherever your travels take you.
The Importance of Securing Your Baggage
Every seasoned traveller knows that baggage security is not something to overlook. From theft and mishandling to lost luggage and opportunistic snatching, the risks are real.
Why Baggage Security Matters:
-
Prevents theft and unauthorised access
-
Reduces the risk of bag tampering
-
Helps recover lost or misplaced luggage
-
Provides peace of mind throughout your journey
With the right locks and tracking devices, you can make it much harder for thieves and much easier to find your luggage if it goes astray.
Choosing the Right Luggage Lock: TSA-Approved is a Must
When it comes to securing your baggage, locks are your first line of defence. But not all locks are created equal, and choosing the right one can make a huge difference.
TSA-Approved Locks: The Gold Standard
If you’re travelling to, from, or through the United States, you’ll want to use TSA-approved locks. These locks can be opened by Transportation Security Administration agents using a universal master key if they need to inspect your bag. Without a TSA lock, they might break your lock (or even your bag) to get inside.
Even outside the US, TSA locks are widely respected and offer a solid level of security.
Types of Luggage Locks:
-
Combination Locks: These are keyless and require a set combination to unlock. They’re convenient as you don’t have to worry about losing a key, but make sure you remember the code.
-
Key Locks: Traditional but still effective. Keep your key in a secure place, and always carry a spare.
-
Cable Locks: Ideal for securing multiple bags together or locking zips that are a little further apart.
-
Built-In Locks: Many modern suitcases now come with integrated TSA-approved combination locks for added convenience.
Quick Tips:
-
Always choose high-quality locks from reputable brands.
-
Avoid cheap locks with weak construction — they’re easy to break.
-
Consider locks with visible TSA approval marks when flying internationally.
Smart Locks: The Future of Baggage Security
If you want to go beyond traditional padlocks, smart locks offer high-tech security for your luggage.
Features of Smart Locks:
-
Unlock via smartphone using Bluetooth or NFC.
-
Remote locking and unlocking.
-
Some models offer tamper alerts sent directly to your phone.
Smart locks are perfect for tech-savvy travellers who want extra security and real-time control over their bags.
However, always double-check airline restrictions as some smart luggage with non-removable batteries may not be allowed on flights.
Luggage Tracking Devices: Stay Connected to Your Bag
Even the best lock can’t prevent your bag from getting lost in transit, but a luggage tracking device can help you locate it quickly if things go wrong.
GPS Trackers:
-
Offer real-time location tracking anywhere in the world.
-
Some devices provide live updates through dedicated mobile apps.
-
Ideal for checked luggage where bags can sometimes go missing between flights.
Bluetooth Trackers:
-
Work best within a short range (usually up to 100 metres).
-
Great for keeping an eye on carry-ons, backpacks, and handbags.
-
Affordable and easy to use, but less effective for long-distance tracking.
AirTags and Similar Devices:
Apple’s AirTag and similar trackers like Tile and Samsung SmartTag have become popular choices. AirTags use Apple’s Find My network, which can help you locate your bag even when you’re far away, thanks to crowdsourced tracking from other Apple devices.
Key Features to Look For:
-
Long battery life (many GPS trackers offer rechargeable batteries).
-
Compatibility with your smartphone (iOS or Android).
-
Strong, durable casing to withstand rough baggage handling.
How to Use Luggage Trackers Effectively
Simply throwing a tracker into your suitcase isn’t enough — using it smartly ensures you get the most out of it.
Top Tips:
-
Place the tracker in an interior pocket for extra protection.
-
Make sure the tracker is fully charged before your trip.
-
Test the tracker and app connection before you leave.
-
Consider using more than one tracker if you’re travelling with multiple bags.
Some travellers also attach trackers to the outside of their bags with secure holders for quick scanning during layovers.
Additional Baggage Security Tips
Besides locks and tracking devices, here are a few extra tips to further secure your baggage:
-
Use Baggage Wrapping Services: Many airports offer plastic wrapping services to deter theft and protect your suitcase from damage.
-
Label Your Bags Clearly: Always add a luggage tag with your name, contact details, and destination address.
-
Remove Old Tags: Old airport tags can confuse handlers and may lead to misdirected luggage.
-
Avoid Overpacking: Overstuffed bags can burst open if zippers fail. This also makes them more attractive to opportunistic thieves.
-
Use Unique Luggage: A bright or unusual suitcase is less likely to be taken by mistake and is easier to spot at baggage claim.
The Benefit of Combining Locks and Tracking
The most secure luggage setups combine physical security with smart tracking. Locks protect your bag from tampering, while trackers help you recover it quickly if it gets lost or stolen.
A lock may deter a thief, but if your bag is accidentally sent to the wrong airport, only a tracker will help you find it fast.
By using both, you can travel with confidence, knowing you’ve got all bases covered.
Final Thoughts
Securing your baggage is no longer just about throwing on a cheap padlock and hoping for the best. Today’s savvy travellers combine TSA-approved locks, smart locks, and luggage tracking devices to keep their belongings safe and accessible.
Whether you’re hopping between cities on a business trip or jetting off for a holiday, taking a few simple steps to properly secure your baggage can save you from serious stress later on.
Invest in good-quality locks, explore the benefits of smart tracking devices, and travel with peace of mind — because your journey should be smooth, not stressful.
