A TSA-recognised lock can be opened by the US Transportation Security Administration with designated tools. During an inspection, it may therefore avoid being cut off. It still does not turn your suitcase into Fort Knox.
What the lock is for
The TSA screens checked and carry-on baggage. If officers need to open a locked case and cannot access the lock, the TSA says it may have to be cut. Recognised locks carry the relevant mark on their packaging.
What it helps with — and what it does not
A small luggage lock holds zip pulls together and helps prevent accidental opening. It also makes quick, unnoticed access slightly harder. It offers little protection against force, damaged zips or opening soft-sided luggage.
Who may find it useful
- You travel to or through the United States and want to lock the case.
- Your suitcase has no integrated recognised lock.
- Your main aim is to keep the zips together.
When an ordinary lock is enough
Outside the TSA system, local authorities and airports follow their own procedures. A TSA mark gives no special entitlement elsewhere. Check the rules for your route before travelling.
Check locks you already own
Inspect the shackle, number wheels and reset mechanism. Set a new combination and open it several times before attaching it to the case. Do not store the code visibly with your luggage.
Valuables still belong in hand luggage
A lock does not change the sensible place for important documents, medication, keys and valuable electronics. Follow security and airline rules. A lock supplements careful packing; it does not replace it.
What a comparison can measure
We can compare shackle thickness, use with cold hands, readability, accidental resetting and behaviour under light tension. None of these tests proves serious burglary resistance.
Our answer: only for certain journeys. On US trips, a recognised lock may make inspection easier. As serious theft protection, it is often overestimated.
Source
Transportation Security Administration: TSA Recognized Locks