How to Unlock a TSA Lock When You Forget the Combination

Using a TSA-approved lock on your luggage is a great way to secure your belongings while allowing airport security to inspect your bag if necessary. However, since these locks require a combination, there’s always a chance you might forget it. If that happens, don’t panic. There are several methods you can try to unlock your TSA lock and reset the combination.

What Is a TSA Lock?

A TSA lock is a luggage lock that can be opened by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers using a master key. You set the combination yourself, and if your bag needs to be inspected at security, officers can open it without damaging the lock. If you use a non-TSA-approved lock, security agents may have to cut the lock—or even damage your bag—to complete the inspection.

Many suitcases come with built-in TSA locks, but if yours doesn’t, you can purchase one separately.

How to Open a TSA Lock When You Forget the Combination

If you’ve forgotten your TSA lock combination, you’ll need to unlock it before you can reset it. Since there isn’t a universal method for opening all TSA locks, you may need to try different approaches.

Try All Possible Combinations

One method recommended by Travel Sentry, the organisation that certifies TSA-approved locks, is to try every possible combination from 000 to 999. While this may sound time-consuming, it should take about 30 minutes or less, especially if the first digit of the combination is 0, 1, or 2.

Identify the Correct Combination Using a Safety Pin

If your luggage has a built-in TSA lock, you can try the following technique:

1. Use a torch and your phone’s camera to closely examine the right side of the first dial.

2. Insert a safety pin and slowly turn the dial while looking for an indentation or gap inside the cylinder.

3. Once you find the gap, leave the dial at that number.

4. Repeat the process for the remaining two dials.

5. If the lock does not open, turn all three dials down one number at a time until it does.

Listen for the Click

For TSA padlocks, another method that travellers have found effective involves listening for a click:

1. Apply pressure to the locking mechanism by either pulling on the lock or pressing the release button.

2. Slowly turn the first dial until you hear a faint clicking sound, which indicates the correct number.

3. Repeat the process for the second and third dials.

4. Once all three numbers are aligned correctly, the lock should open.

Resetting the Combination

Once your lock is open, you should reset the combination to something memorable. The exact process varies by brand, so checking the manufacturer’s website for instructions is always a good idea. However, most TSA locks can be reset using these general steps:

For Freestanding TSA Padlocks:

1. Set all dials to 000.

2. Rotate the shackle 90 degrees from the locked position.

3. Press down on the shackle and hold it while setting your new three-digit combination.

4. Release the shackle and return it to the locked position.

For Built-In TSA Locks on Luggage:

1. Slide the lock button in the direction of the arrow.

2. Set your new three-digit code.

3. Release the button to confirm the new combination.

Should You Use a TSA Lock?

Whether or not to use a TSA lock comes down to personal preference. Some travellers feel more secure knowing their luggage is locked, while others prefer to avoid the hassle of remembering a combination.

Statistically, only about 5% of the 1.4 million checked bags screened daily by TSA require further inspection, meaning most travellers will never need to worry about their locks being opened by security.

For peace of mind, consider using a TSA lock and storing your combination in your phone or a secure location. This way, you won’t have to worry about forgetting it before your next trip.