When choosing a lock for your bag, as well as making sure it is endorsed by them, another feature to look for is that it is a encoding lock.
- Choose the locking mechanism on the luggage locks: some have keys; others are combination locks. If the gift's recipient is the absent-minded type and likely to lose keys, stick with a combination lock.
- Decide what material you want the locks to be made of. Most luggage locks are made of brass, but some have steel shackles for extra strength.
- Choose a size. Smaller brass locks are fine for locking briefcases or backpacks, but you may need a larger lock for bigger luggage items.
- Decide on a color. Although most luggage locks have a brass body, they come in a variety of colors and styles. (After a plain brass finish, black is most popular.)

- Be sure the locks are easy to use and that they open and close smoothly.
- Purchase enough locks so that every piece of luggage will have a matching lock.
Plastic luggage locks - Made of polypropylene or nylon, plastic ones have become popular for their durability and rust-resistance. The way a lock is mounted on a case is an important element of its durability.
Luggage locks are mounted in three ways: with prongs, screws, or rivets. The more screws or rivets used, the more stable the application. Luggage locks should also be mounted straight so that the two parts meet properly.
But one thing that people often don’t realize, is that after your bag gets checked in, it goes through a huge baggage scanner before being loaded onto the plane, and it can still be subject to inspection.
The TSA luggage lock is designed to be easily opened with special tools created by the TSA to correspond to these locks. In this way, inspectors can easily bypass the luggage lock and inspect the contents of any luggage that they may find to be suspicious or that needs to undergo a routine check. After the inspection is complete, the luggage lock is secured once more. This special luggage lock can be purchased through Safe Skies Locks or Travel Sentry.

