TSA unlock at airport?

TSA unlock at airport? - Key with trinket in shabby door

My suitcase has a TSA lock. I checked it in unlocked, with the key is inside.

After receiving the suitcase, it's locked. I can not unlock it, because the key is inside.

What should I do? Will the airline unlock it for me if I bring my suitcase to the airport?



Best Answer

You can buy a TSA master key on many websites across the internet - I'm not linking to them as I am unsure as to how legal their purchase is, but as a last resort its an option.




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How do you release a TSA lock?

Push the button or pull on the lock, to put pressure on the locking mechanism....Just reset the combination:
  • Set the dial to 000.
  • Turn the shackle at a 90 degree angle from the lock position.
  • Push the shackle down (outside of the lock).
  • Set the desired code.
  • Pull the shackle up.
  • Turn it back to the lock position.


  • Does TSA have keys to the TSA approved locks?

    With a TSA-approved luggage lock, the TSA will have a universal key to open the lock to check your bag and then re-lock it to ensure it remains secured.

    What is the point of a TSA lock?

    The TSA lock is a global security system which allows passengers to secure their luggage, while permitting security authorities to inspect them without damage.



    How TSA Checkpoints In Airports Have Changed In The Age Of Coronavirus | TODAY




    More answers regarding tSA unlock at airport?

    Answer 2

    Each TSA lock has a number on the outside (below, TSA 002):

    Samsonite lock

    1. Go to a kindly luggage store with the suitcase and ask them if they can unlock it. A key for a suitcase / lock with the same number will unlock it.

    2. Buy a piece of luggage with the same numbered TSA lock and unlock it. Whether you then return the new suitcases is up to your own moral precepts.

    3. Buy a TSA key off eBay

    4. Find someone with a 3D printer to make a copy of the key for you.

    5. Pick the lock. TSA locks are incredibly easy to pick as they often have only 3-4 pins and the tolerances are incredibly poor.

    Note that for #1 and #2, there is a comment below that the keys for the TSA are not the same as the keys for the lock. My response here for #1 and #2 is that I assume you have a keyed suitcase (since if you had a combo, you'd simply use the combo). What you'll find is that TSA locks are so poorly made that some jiggling of a key that's not supposed to open it will in fact do so simply because the manufacturers are too cheap to make mastered locks and their tolerances are terrible.

    Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

    Images: Andrea Piacquadio, George Becker, Pixabay, Mix and Match Studio