travel safe lock

The 7 Best TSA-Approved Locks of 2024

Keep your belongings secure

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TripSavvy / Chloe Jeong

TSA locks can seem a bit mysterious, but they're the easiest way to add some security to the travel process. There are all kinds of styles, from combination and cable locks to classic key and keyless locks with card access. The best part is that TSA-approved locks are no more expensive than non-approved ones, and they're easy to find.

Like many travel accessories, there are an overwhelming number of TSA-approved locks to choose from. That's where our research comes into play: We dug into the best locks that will keep your personal items where they belong, broken down by type (and you've got plenty of options). Consider how much you are willing to spend, the style that best suits your needs, and any durability claims and reviews.

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best for backpacks, master lock luggage lock.

Highly compatible

Sleek design

A few color options

A bit of a learning curve

This steel option from Master Lock has a slighter design than other options, making it a good pick for smaller luggage and backpacks. The cable is covered in tough and flexible vinyl so that the lock can withstand the rough life of a carry-on.

Materials: Vinyl, steel | Type: Combination

Best Budget

Anvil luggage cable locks.

Lifetime guarantee

Lightweight zinc body

Easy to organize

Demands fine motor manipulation

These TSA-approved luggage locks come in sets of two or four, so you can outfit all of your bags for under $25. The combination locks are designed with a thin and durable steel shackle, which is excellent for looping into the toughest zippers. If you’re an organization enthusiast, you might be into the fact that each lock is a different hue—reviewers have applauded the color coding opportunities.

Materials: Chrome, steel, zinc | Type: Combination

Best Splurge

Talonport keyless tsa-approved luggage lock.

Cards come in two different sizes

Easy to operate

Innovative design

Some reviewers question durability

If keys and combinations are not your style and you don’t mind investing a bit more on convenience, consider this option from Talonport. The device is unlocked using a card that can easily be stored in a wallet. This lock comes with a lifetime guarantee and is near-impossible to pick, thanks to a seamless design and lack of combination. Plus, if you lose the card, Talonlock will send you a replacement free of charge.

Materials: Metal | Type: Card

Best for Durability

Lewis n. clark 3-dial combination lock.

Engraved numbers won't rub off

Lightweight

Lock itself could be more robust

The 3-Dial Combination Lock from Lewis N. Clark offers double security in the form of an included 4-foot coated steel cable and durable shackle. The extra-long cord makes it possible to secure bags to each other or secure your belongings to a desk in a hotel room or a seat in an airport terminal. It may not be the most beautiful design, but it’s a heavy-duty option that will give you one less thing to worry about on travel day. Weighing in at less than 2 ounces, it will surprise you with its power.

Materials: Steel, zinc | Type: Combination

Best Tamper Proof

Forge combination lock set.

Several color options

Unconditional lifetime guarantee

Some reviews claim locks can be forced

Forge's combination locks come with special keys that feature a dimpled design, making the locks much harder to pick. If you've ever retrieved your luggage and noticed the lock hanging open or stuffed back into your suitcase, rest assured you won't have to worry about that happening with this lock. It's designed so the TSA agent has to re-lock the suitcase to remove their key.

Materials: Steel, zinc | Type: Key

Best Key Lock

Master lock padlock, keyed tsa-accepted luggage lock.

Straightforward design

High visibility colors

Must use key to lock

Master Lock’s padlock is designed with front access, which makes locking and unlocking easier on the wrists. The steel shackle gives you all the protection you need against those looking to cut the lock off, and both locks in the set can be opened with the same key (you get two keys in the pack). Another bonus: These locks are available in two colors (purple and blue), making them easier to spot in the mess of packing and unpacking .

Materials: Steel | Type: Key

Best Retractable Cable Lock

Lewis n. clark retractable cable lock.

Bright color for quick recognition

Versatile design

If you don’t want to mess with any additional accessories like keys or extra cables, this retractable design from Lewis N. Clark may be just what you’re looking for. A 30-inch steel cable provides plenty of flexibility for securing multiple pieces of luggage or looping your zipper pulls together. An easy-to-use, three-number combination allows the user to open and close the lock. Reviewers say this option is better for carry-on luggage, as steel shackle styles provide more security when your bag is completely out of sight.

Materials: Steel, thermoplastic rubber, ABS | Type: Combination

If you like to travel light and appreciate products from well-established brands, go for the Master Lock Set Your Own Combination Lock . It's light yet durable and works perfectly for carry-ons, backpacks, or small luggage items . We also like the Anvil 3-Digit Cable Lock for its value and lifetime guarantee.

What to Look for When Buying a TSA-Approved Lock

Luggage locks vary quite a bit in price, but you won’t find many over $20. It depends on the level of security you’re looking for: Steel shackle locks can run a bit more expensive, as do keyless options that require a card to unlock. Beware of super-inexpensive options—paying a few dollars more on your luggage lock can make all the difference.

Most TSA-approved locks are made of steel, an ultra-durable material. Steer clear of locks made entirely of rubber or plastic and locks with cables that are anything but steel.

There are a few common styles of TSA-approved locks: combination locks, cable locks, and keyless locks. Consider your personal preferences when choosing: Do you constantly lose your keys? Stay away from locks that require one to open. Need a bit of flexibility to lock up a bag with small zipper holds? Look for a super-strong cable lock with a thinner cable. Anxious about someone cracking your combination code? Opt for a card-access lock. 

Every TSA-approved lock will have a red diamond logo, also known as a Travel Sentry logo. This means it’s compatible with the universal keys that TSA agents have to unlock these approved locks.

Not necessarily. Most cable locks are made with durable steel cables—you’d need a heavy-duty wire cutter to break through. If that still worries you, choose a steel shackled lock instead; just know that they are less flexible in terms of what you can affix them to (larger shackles don’t often work well with smaller zipper pulls).

It’s not illegal to lock your luggage with a non-approved lock, but you are running the risk of a TSA agent cutting your lock off should they need to search your bag. There isn’t often a price difference between TSA-approved and non-approved locks, so you’re always better off going with one that the TSA can access.

Erika Owen is a frequent traveler who doesn’t leave home for a trip without her favorite TSA-approved lock. She also put four hours of research and review analysis into this story and has personally tested several of the brands mentioned in this article including Lewis N. Clark and Master Lock.

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Add an Extra Layer of Security With a Portable Door Lock

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Feeling safe when you’re at home or traveling can sometimes be difficult. Whether it’s through installing a smart lock in your home, keeping pepper spray readily available or doing a double-check for spy cameras in your rental — feeling secure anywhere you go is important. For those who live in rental properties, knowing that landlords or former tenants could have easy access to your home can create some unease. When staying in rentals or hotels, guests may feel uncomfortable knowing that employees and owners could enter their room at any time. And for those who live with nosy roommates, being able to lock the bedroom door can provide an added feeling of security and help solve arguments over privacy once and for all. That’s why a portable door lock is a great item that can help users feel safe when at home or traveling.

It’s important to note that portable door locks should only be used in legally approved manners. Ensure all the members of your home know how to remove the lock in case of a fire and always use precautions when using a portable door lock.

What Do Portable Door Locks Do?

Portable door locks act as a reinforcement for locking doors and can also be used on doors that don’t have locks, like interior doors. We’ve included styles of portable door locks that can be used from the inside of the home or room as well as portable door locks that can be used on the outside. These locks provide an additional level of security and can act as a deterrent for intruders — whether that’s a busybody roommate or an unscrupulous landlord.

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The modern status showdown is 40,000 feet in the air, the traveler’s choice luggage set is under $160 for amazon’s big spring sale, 1. the original portable door lock by addalock.

BEST OVERALL

Feel safe even when traveling by using the Original Portable Door Lock by Addalock. Installation takes only a few seconds and provides an added level of security in any hotel room or rental. Metal claws are inserted into the strike plate when the door is open. Once the door is closed, the Addalock is installed, making it impossible for those with a key to open the door from the outside. Designed to be used on the inside of a door to slow intruders and keep out people with a key, the Addalock is ideal for use in hotels, college dorms or home rentals when strangers may have access to your door.

Pros: The Addalock comes with a storage pouch for protection when the lock is not in use.

Cons: The Addalock may not work on doors with large deadbolts.

Portable Door Lock by Addalock

2. travelers security lock.

The Travelers Safety Lock is the most secure option on the list, but also the most expensive. It’s constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum that will stand up to serious pressure. This portable door lock can be installed on right- or left-facing doors and is incredibly easy to install. By redistributing any force applied to the door to the lock and doorframe, this lock provides serious protection from intruders. An included carrying case makes it easy to travel with.

Pros:  Heavy-duty materials provide reliable security while traveling. Easy to install on virtually any door. Protects against keys and forced entry.

Cons : More expensive than other travel locks. Users with mobility issues may have trouble installing this lock.

Travelers Security Lock

3. calslock portable door lock for travel.

QUALITY PICK

The Calslock Portable Door Lock for Travel provides peace of mind when home or traveling. The small lock is the size of two pens but provides a sturdy second lock over a deadbolt. The Calslock can be used by hooking the lock into the strike plate and then squeezing and pulling back the slide bar when the door is open. Once the door is closed, users simply squeeze the slide bar and push it against the door. The Calslock works best on doors with a small gap between the frame and the door. Like the Addalock, the Carslock is ideal for use in places where multiple people may have access to your door, including hotels, dorms and rentals.

Pros: The Calslock will provide resistance against intruders pushing in on the door and will create a loud noise that can alert sleeping residents.

Cons: The Calslock only works on doors that swing inwards. The serrated edge makes this lock unsafe for homes where small children can reach the door handle.

Calslock Portable Door Lock

4. prime-line door knob lock-out device.

HONORABLE MENTION

Help prevent others from accessing the lock on your doorknob with the Prime-Line Door Knob Lock-Out Device. The lock fits over a round doorknob and uses a key to prevent the turning of the knob and access to the keyhole. The cylinder inside the lock is held in place with an O-ring and can be removed when the device is unlocked and open. The Prime-Line can be installed in seconds and is made with a durable, diecast construction.

Pros: Customers can use the Prime-Line to prevent prying landlords from entering their homes without permission. Because the lock fits over the doorknob, the renter isn’t changing the locks, which is against many rental policies.

Cons: The Prime-Line can only be used on round doorknobs.

Prime-Line Door Knob Lock-Out Device

$16.62 $31.59 47% off, 5. acemining portable door lock.

EASY TO INSTALL

AceMining’s portable door lock is very easy to use and can be installed within seconds, in the dark or in an emergency if need be. It’s made of high-quality, rigid stainless steel that’ll hold up even in demanding situations like an attempt at a forced entry. It’s also designed for wide usage on a variety of doors in hotels, apartments, houses and more. Whether you want to ensure children and dogs don’t get out or unwanted guests don’t get in, this lock is a solid choice.

Pros: Installs in seconds, made of high-quality, durable materials, designed to fit most doors seamlessly.

Cons: The chain that connects the main body with the plastic cover is flimsier than the rest of the tool, however, this doesn’t affect its ability to function.

AceMining Portable Door Lock

$14.99 $20.99 29% off, 6. vincrey portable door lock.

MOST DURABLE

This portable door lock from VINCREY is ready to use right out of the box, and is super simple to install once you’ve read the directions carefully. It works on most, not all, doors and is made of hefty materials that’ll jam any intruder and protect your safety. It’s made of heavy-duty stainless steel material that’s thicker than most locks so your door stays shut no matter who is trying to get in, and it’s small enough to fit in a standard bag or suitcase. If you travel alone and want reassurance of your privacy and security, this lock is an excellent choice.

Pros: Made of hefty materials, portable and easy to use.

Cons: It does not fit all doors, so make sure you read the dimensions before you purchase.

VINCREY Portable Door Lock

7. doorjammer portable door lock brace.

BEST DOOR JAM

This portable door lock from DoorJammer works by jamming the door from underneath as opposed to locking the knob or handle further, so it’s compatible with almost all doors and all types of flooring. You can use it with carpet as well as laminated floors, and it takes only a few seconds to set up. The small neoprene extension foot only needs about 0.3 inches of clearance to work so it’ll work in most spaces, and it can be used with high-threshold doors. It weighs only 8 ounces but forms a powerful barricade to keep you safe.

Pros: Works on nearly all doors and floor types, strong barricade, requires no tools to install and can be easily removed in an emergency.

Cons: If your door has a large gap between the bottom and the floor this lock might not work.

DoorJammer Portable Door Lock Brace

8. emdmak door stop alarm.

This door stopper/alarm from EMDMAK isn’t technically a door lock but it will make it much harder for someone to enter your space and sound an alarm alerting you that someone is intruding. It can be used while traveling just as easily as it can be used at home, and the alarm is 120db, so it’ll scare away anyone who comes in contact with it. The door wedges have three sensitivity levels you can set — high, medium and low, and they’re powered on 9V batteries that can be used for a year under typical circumstances. The installation is super simple, and they can be used on any door with a small gap underneath it.

Pros: Alarm alerts you to the intruder, super easy to install, sensitivity levels are handy, battery lasts for an entire year.

Cons: Not a lock, so it won’t prevent an intruder from getting in if they aren’t scared off by the alarm.

EMDMAK Door Stop Alarm

$13.99 $17.99 22% off, 9. master lock set your own combination portable lock box.

ALSO CONSIDER

Safely store your main or backup key directly on your door with the Master Lock Set Your Own Combination Portable Lock Box. The durable lock box is made tough with a metal body, a vinyl-coated shackle that won’t scratch doors and a weather protection cover to keep keys dry. Large enough to fit up to five standard keys at once, the lockbox has a four-digit combination that can be set and reset by the user. Master Lock is great for use on primary and secondary residences, as well as for real estate listings and home rentals.

Pros: Master Lock also makes a portable light-up option of their lockbox that makes it easy for users to see the combination pad even in low lighting.

Cons: The Master Lock doesn’t provide a backup for your door’s lock, instead of focusing on keeping customers safe by providing a secure way to store an extra key. The Master Lock can be used on knob and handles but not lever-style door openings.

Master Portable Lock Box

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10 best TSA-approved luggage locks: Samsonite, Forge, Away

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported it screened over 10 million passengers between July 1 and July 5, setting a new record during the pandemic. And while many travelers are focused on staying safe by wearing a mask on the plane, protecting your personal belongings is important, too. One way to do so is by using a luggage lock, which adds an extra layer of security to your bag and the contents inside. As Americans continue to get vaccinated and countries across the world ease Covid-19 travel restrictions , the number of people traveling by air continues to increase, and so may be prioritizing these safety measures.

According to the TSA , travelers can use any lock they’d like on their luggage, but only some locks are TSA-accepted models — locks specifically developed to ensure they can be opened by TSA officers. TSA states it “has been provided universal ‘master’ keys under agreements with Safe Skies Luggage Locks and Travel Sentry so that certain branded locks may not have to be cut to inspect baggage,” and you can find each company’s logo on approved locks.

TSA-accepted models come in a variety of models, from key locks to combination locks (the latter feature a slot for those universal “master” keys). You can use the locks on checked or carry-on baggage like luggage, backpacks, duffel bags and more. Some brands also sell luggage with TSA-accepted luggage locks built into the top or side of the bag.

To help guide your shopping for lock-safe luggage and travel, we rounded up a handful of TSA-accepted luggage locks, as well as suitcases with built-in, TSA-accepted locks from brands like Away , Master Lock , Samsonite and more.

Shopping Travel safety: Top-rated passport holders

Best tsa-accepted luggage locks, forge tsa luggage combination lock.

Forge’s TSA-accepted combination locks allow you to set a three-digit combination and feature a red open alert indicator that pops up on the lock if it’s been opened by a security officer. TSA agents have to relock the lock, helping ensure your bag stays secure after it's been inspected. Locks can be purchased individually or multi-packs, and come in colors like Black, Blue, Silver, Green and Orange.

Safe Skies TSA-Accepted Padlocks

Safe Skies TSA-Accepted Padlocks come in a set of four. Each lock and key set is a different color to help you distinguish between them. Locks come with two keys each. You can also purchase a four pack of Safe Skies padlocks in a singular color: Black, Grey or Red.

Safe Skies 3-Dial TSA-Accepted Lock

Also from Safe Skies, these three-dial locks allow you to set your own combination. The locks come in a set of two, and they’re available in colors like Black and Yellow . You can also buy a set with one padlock and one combination lock .

Samsonite Luggage Strap

Samsonite’s luggage strap adjusts to fit bags up to 72-inches wide and its ABS buckle is designed to withstand being constantly handled. The strap features a three-dial lock that allows you to set your own combination. The strap is available in colors like Orange Tiger, Black and Ultraviolet .

Master Lock Padlock

This lock comes in two styles: word combination and numeric combination . It has an extended reach steel shackle that sits flush against suitcases. You can purchase the locks individually or as a set of two .

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Best luggage with built-in tsa-accepted locks, away the carry-on.

One of the best carry-on suitcases , Away’s The Carry-On and The Bigger Carry-On both feature a built-in Travel Sentry combination lock, as do many of the brand’s other luggage options. The Carry-On is designed with a polycarbonate outer hard shell, spinner wheels and an interior compression system that helps you fit clothes and other items. The Carry-On can be purchased in colors like Sand, Blush, Black and more, and you can opt to buy it with or without an ejectable USB charger.

Samsonite Freeform Medium Spinner

Samsonite’s Freeform Medium Spinner has a built-in Travel Sentry combination lock and an ID tag. It’s designed to be lightweight and durable, and offers pockets and dividers to help you organize while packing. The suitcase is also expandable and features four wheels. It comes in six colors ranging from Silver to Sage Green.

CALPAK Trnk Carry On Luggage

Also featured in our carry-on luggage roundup, this option from CALPAK is lightweight — 7.1 pounds — and it’s expandable for up to an extra 2-inches, which translates to TK square inches more. The carry-on features a Travel Sentry lock on its side, and each corner of the bag is reinforced with aluminum protectors. It also has an adjustable height trolley, 360-degree spinner wheels and an interior divider with pockets, as well as compression straps. The carry-on is available in three colors: Trnk Black, Nude and Grey.

CALPAK Trnk Carry-On Luggage

Swissgear 7366 23-inch expandable hardside spinner luggage.

This expandable suitcase from Swissgear offers added safety due to its built-in Travel Sentry lock and additional organization thanks to its internal pockets and clothing straps. The suitcase also features a push-button steel locking telescopic handle, and four 360-degree wheels. It’s available in four colors: Black, Lime, White and Orange/Blue (currently out-of-stock).

Traveler’s Choice Tasmania Large Spinner

The Tasmania Large Spinner comes with a built-in three-dial Travel Sentry combination lock. It’s currently in stock in Purple and Black, and also comes in Navy and Brown. The suitcase is constructed from a polycarbonate outer shell and has two interior zippered mesh pockets, as well as a center zippered pouch. It’s expansion gusset offers 25 percent more packing capacity according to the brand, and the bag features a side carry handle in addition to a multi-stage push lock handle system.

Shopping Expert shopping: weekender bags

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Zoe Malin is an associate updates editor for Select on NBC News.

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 best TSA approved locks for this year

Best TSA Approved Locks (2023) January 27, 2023

— Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy through a link on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

If you're flying but want to make sure your belongings are kept safe, a TSA approved lock is the way to go. These locks bear a Travel Sentry logo and open with a special key that only the TSA has, just in case they need to search your bag. Otherwise, the only person who can access your luggage is you. To find the top locks, we asked our readers to vote for their favorites, and the results are in. These are the 10 best TSA approved locks for 2023.

No. 10: Swiss Gear TSA Key Lock

The Swiss Gear TSA Key Lock has a steel shackle that fits through the majority of zipper pulls and sliders, making it a nice choice for a luggage lock. Made of tough plastic, the lock comes in four colors: black, blue, red and pink. An accompanying key means there's no need to remember a combination.

No. 9: SureLock TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks

With a SureLock Luggage Lock, you'll be sure to keep your luggage and belongings safe. This combination lock is equipped with a 4-inch cable, allowing for flexibility in what you secure, as well as a pop-up indicator to let you know your baggage has been opened and searched.

No. 8: Lewis N. Clark Travel Sentry Bar Lock

The bar shape of the Lewis N. Clark Travel Sentry Bar Lock sets it apart from other similar locks. Combine its unique shape with its steel cable and you have a 3-digit combination lock that you can use just about anywhere.

No. 7: MYPIN Fingerprint Lock

Step into the future with the MYPIN Fingerprint Lock, a keyless option that allows you to open a lock with your biometric data. Add up to 10 authorized fingerprints to be able to share the lock with family or friends on your next trip.

No. 6: Lumintrail 3 Digit Combination Lock with Cable

The Lumintrail 3 Digit Combination Lock comes with a 4-foot steel cable, allowing you to secure bags to each other or to a fixed object, or secure zipper pulls. The lock also comes in three colors – silver, black or red – making for easy bag identification.

No. 5: Forge Dimple Key Locks

Forge claims to make "the toughest luggage locks around," and they back that up with a lifetime guarantee on their products. Patented internal mechanisms that include a hardened steel tumbler system will help you rest easy, knowing your luggage is safe. Plus, every lock in a pack shares the same key, enabling you to carry just one key to open multiple locks.

No. 4: TUMI Alpha TSA Lock

Sleek and effective, the TUMI Alpha TSA Lock requires a 3-digit combination to release. Its simple clasp design easily slips through zipper pulls to secure your belongings.

No. 3: Anvil TSA 4 Digit Locks

The ease of setting your personal combination makes the Anvil 4 Digit Lock extra appealing. In just 20 seconds, you can twist and push the shackle and rotate the dials to your preferred security code. The steel shackle and zinc alloy body make this lock tough enough to handle a rough trip.

No. 2: AirBolt The Portable Smart Lock

With the AirBolt smart lock, there's no need to worry about forgetting a pesky combination.  You can simply release the lock using the AirBolt app on your smartphone. Even better, the lock is trackable, which means your luggage is trackable. To top it all off, just one battery charge lasts up to 12 months.

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The 9 Best Portable Safes for Travel in 2024 [Hotel, Pool, Beach]

Amar Hussain

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Table of Contents

Things to consider when buying a portable safe, the 9 best portable safes, final thoughts.

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Traveling can put your belongings at risk, and you would be wise to look for a way of keeping your valuables protected on your journey. While you hope thieves won’t take aim at you and your family, it’s best to be prepared for this unfortunate occurrence, especially when traveling internationally.

To avoid being an easy target, look to arm yourself with a high-quality portable safe. These safes can be used to store your phone, credit cards, jewelry, passport, and other valuables. They can be carried with you or left in your hotel room and used in place of hotel safes that may have easily breakable codes.

Before we get into our top picks for portable safes, we’ll also address the most important aspects to consider when purchasing one.

Above all, you should consider the lock type . Digital locks might be your preference, but classic combination locks work just as well. Additionally, the safe material and protection methods make a real difference here.

You’ll also want to be aware of the size of the safe to ensure that it will hold all of your valuables. Let’s dig deeper into these factors.

There are several types of locks that can be found on portable safes. Manual key locks and combination locks are more common than digital locks and provide a high level of protection. Keeping the key to your safe in a dedicated place and the safe itself with you, or the other way around, will provide protection for your valuables.

Bottom Line: Combination safes are hard to break into, as long as the material itself is protective and resistant to tampering with a tool.

Another crucial factor in a proper portable safe is the material. You need waterproof material to protect your valuables, but you also need a sturdy and durable construction for longevity, making it impossible for thieves to break into.

Some of the best materials for a portable safe include alloy steel, metal blends, and butadiene and zinc combinations .

Portable safes come in a variety of sizes to suit different needs and preferences. On the smaller end, compact safes are intended to hold your phone and a few essentials and usually measure 5 to 7 inches .

On the other hand, much larger safes can also fit jewelry, documents, expensive perfume, and watches. These typically measure 15 by 10 inches and have a capacity of more than a liter.

Let’s get into the best portable travel safe options. We compiled our list based on the protective factors and capacity mentioned above to bring you the highest level of security for your valuables while traveling.

1. Compact Combination-Lock Safe for Travel

Master Lock 5900D Set Your Combination Portable Safe

The Master Lock 5900D is a small safe that can be packed up in any travel backpack or bag. It has a compact size safe with a combination lock that provides complete protection for your valuable items.

Not only does it allow you to set up a combination, but you can also use its integrated cable to attach it to any object, improving the security of your items. The interior has just enough room to fit your phone, passport, cards, and other small items.

This portable safe is also equipped with shock-absorbing foam and is water-resistant, giving you peace of mind while you’re on the move.

What We Like

• Compact safe with a combination lock

What We Don’t Like

• It could be breached with tools if stolen

2. Waterproof and Compact Steel Safe

VAULTEK LifePod Secure Waterproof Travel Case

With the VAULTEK power safe, you’ll be equipped with a completely protective safe for your belongings while traveling. It’s a compact safe that measures just 7 by 6 inches and is made of alloy steel to ensure protection.

It features a touch-activated keypad for code entry, and there’s a backup key entry discretely placed on the side. This way, even if you forget your code, you can use the spare key to open the safe.

This safe also stands out with features like a protective rubber gasket and dual compression latches.

• Double-layered protection with a keypad and a spare key
• Too small to fit anything larger than a passport and a watch

3. Great Travel Safe for the Beach or Pool

SAFEGO Portable Indoor Outdoor Lock Box Safe With Key

The SAFEGO lockbox comes with both custom combination access and key entry. If you will be using the spare key, it’s best to keep it somewhere accessible to you but not in the direct vicinity of the safe.

Styled to look similar to a small purse or bucket bag, this safe has an adjustable steel cable so you can attach it to another object. It’s extremely durable as it’s made from a blend of steel, zinc, and acrylonitrile butadiene . All in all, these features make the safe both impact-resistant and impervious to theft.

• Made with a blend of metals and a powerful metal cable
• Its design may limit its appeal

4. Anti-Pry Travel Safe Box With Combination Lock

Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe

This safe has you covered if you want a safe place to stash your money and room key. It fits easily into your travel or beach bag, with dimensions of just 9 by 6 inches.

Still, it’s big enough to fit small items such as your phone or small pieces of jewelry. With a combination lock and anti-pry alloy steel material , this is a classic safe that does what it’s meant to do. Surprisingly, this safe contains a foam-padded interior and is California DOJ-certified as a firearm safety device.

• Simple and easy to use
• No spare keys

5. Innovative Design With Wire Mesh

PacsafeTravelsafe Gii 5 Liter Portable Safe

One of the best large-scale travel safes is the Pacsafe option, with as much as 5 liters of capacity. It’s one of the largest portable safes you can find, and it still comes in a handy and portable bag design.

It has stainless steel wire mesh embedded in the fabric and a combination lock for maximum protection . All of your items will remain safe in this tamper-resistant bag.

The bag can be anchored to fixtures such as pipes or trees with a stainless-steel cable. It can even be stored flat in a suitcase and doesn’t take up much space for its size.

• Portable and has a large capacity
• The bag could theoretically be torn by heavy tools

6. Compact Alloy-Steel Box Safe

SentrySafe Portable Safe 0.21 Cubic Feet Black

This small box safe is constructed from steel and features a sturdy digital lock and carrying handle. With a durable box design , it’s a great choice for travel when it might be shifted around or dropped.

It’s easy to reset the code and it will only consume 10 x 13 x 4.4 inches of your packing space. Its size and alloy-steel construction make it suitable for keeping your, passport, credit cards, and jewelry safe at wherever your temporary home base happens to be.

• Has a carrying handle
• Too big to carry around for everyday use

7. Safe Box for Guns and Travel Items

Dalmbox Car Gun Safe For Pistols With Combination Lock

The Dalmbox gun safe box is a perfect option to keep on your hotel room nightstand. It’s a protective safe box with interior foam padding and a heavy steel cable to lock it to any fixed object.

With a 3-digit combination lock, this lightweight box works equally well on a plane, in a hotel room, or while taking a walk. You can bring it with you anywhere, and feel good about the fact that thieves will have a hard time breaking the code or breaching the steel construction. It’s also suitable for keeping guns away from children.

• Multipurpose safe box
• Can’t fit wide objects

8. Safe With up to 8-Digit Code

RPNB Gun Safe California DOJ Certified

Whether you wish to keep your gun away from children or to have a practical travel safe box, the RPNB gun safe is a solid choice. It’s perfect for thin items such as small pieces of jewelry, passports, credit cards, and phones.

This is a larger travel safe with dimensions of 12.2 by 7.87 inches, with plenty of room for a handgun along with other personal items. You can rely on either the biometric scanner or use a key to open the case , which is a great security addition in the world of travel safes.

• Cutting-edge biometric lock
• Dimensions favor thinner items

9. Small Safe With 3 Modes of Entry

VAULTEK LifePod Secure Waterproof Travel Case Rugged Electronic Lock Box

You’ll never need another travel safe with an advanced option like the Jolitac pistol safe box. It has 3 modes of entry with a coded keypad, keyhole, and biometric sensor. All of this is in a small and compact package.

Inside you’ll find padded foam, while the outside features a tether lanyard and steel security cord. It comes with 2 regular keys for the lock, and you can charge it via its micro-USB port when your battery’s dead.

• Nonmetal polymer construction, triple access points
• Thin security cable

In the end, it all comes down to choosing the best option for you and your family based on the features we’ve listed as essential for portable travel safes. The type of lock and safe material you choose completely depends on your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are portable travel safes worth it.

Portable travel safes can be a great help when it comes to keeping your valuable items secure. No matter where you go, their compact size and security locks are a great combo for travel.

What’s the best portable safe size?

It all depends on the items you’ll be keeping in the safe, but in general, safe sizes between 10 by 5 inches and 15 by 10 inches are sufficient. Smaller sizes will hold items such as your passport and phone, while larger sizes can contain more than 1 liter of storage.

What are the strongest portable safe materials?

The strongest portable safe materials are alloy steel, reinforced metal blends, and carbon steel.

How heavy should a portable safe be?

It all depends on your items and the safe material, but there are compact solutions that weigh as few as 3 or 4 pounds.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Portable door locks can give travelers extra comfort and protection. Here’s how to choose one.

As the pandemic eases, the prospect of staying in unfamiliar places has become both exciting and unnerving for many former travel enthusiasts. It’s important to feel safe, especially when it’s time to rest after a packed day of sightseeing or adventuring. One way to add an extra layer of protection against unwanted intrusions is to purchase a portable door lock. Unlike exterior locks that open with a key, portable door locks can be used only inside a room and come in a variety of forms, including keyed contraptions, metal plates, door stoppers and noise alarms.

 These devices are marketed to people who want extra security but don’t have control over what kind of locking mechanism is used on a door: apartment renters, dorm dwellers and travelers. Before you purchase one, experts say, you should consider why you want it and what kind will meet your needs.

Reasons to purchase

“There’s a lot of psychology and emotion involved in feeling safe,” says Rebecca Edwards, a security expert with SafeWise , which analyzes national crime and safety trends and reviews related products. The pandemic has made us more proactive about protecting ourselves in general, she says: “We’re already thinking about taking more control over the environment and the threat that it presents to us.”

And if you’ve had a specific experience “that makes you feel worried, or afraid, or more vulnerable, having the extra thing sometimes just helps you relax and get some sleep, Edwards says. People who have experienced a crime or know someone who has “are astronomically more likely to employ extra security measures.”

Higher prices and hard-to-find reservations: What to know about outdoor adventures this summer

Where you stay matters, too. In a large hotel, you probably don’t need a portable door lock because the rooms probably have deadbolts on the inside, says Leyla Giray Alyanak, a journalist and avid explorer who lives in rural eastern France and created a website, Women on the Road, to share tips and resources with other solo female travelers.

Over the years, Alyanak has visited 96 countries and stayed in all types of accommodations, including luxury hotels, secluded Airbnbs and a guesthouse in Tanzania where, due to high rates of neighborhood theft, the owner locked the doors at night and went to sleep with the master key. So far, Alyanak has not used a portable door lock in a major hotel, and she hasn’t experienced a problem.

But hotels are falling out of favor with some travelers because of coronavirus concerns. Even if you’re fully vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still recommends vacation rentals as a “safer” option than hotels because they pose a lower risk of coming into contact with people outside your household. Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky is expecting a surge in summer 2021 bookings.

 While Airbnbs , Vrbos and other private rental units can feel safer from an infection standpoint, they carry other security risks. These units don’t always have the heavy-duty deadbolts that are standard at most hotels. Also, Airbnbs often employ smart locks linked to a specific code, and you can’t be sure the owner has updated the code between guests, says Derek Kiser, a Houston construction professional who has worked with doors, locks and associated hardware for more than a decade. Kiser established a website called Door Security Group to help consumers understand home security products.

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Even if a room has secondary locking mechanisms — such as security chains or swinging latches attached to the door and frame — Kiser cautions against relying on them. Because these pieces are held in place only by screws, they’re easy to dislodge with some force if a door is cracked open. And if you’re renting a single room in a house where other guests are coming and going, “you’re definitely going to want more security,” says Kiser.

Although hostels, bed-and- breakfasts, Vrbos and Airbnbs present a higher break-in risk than a large hotel — where in addition to deadbolts, the building might have cameras and other security measures to deter criminals — the chance of an incident is small, Edwards says. The bigger risk is that someone can access your room when you’re not there and steal your valuables. This, too, is relatively rare, but “that kind of crime is far more common than someone coming in to attack you,” Edwards says.

The bottom line, security experts say, is that unless you’re staying in a big hotel, it’s smart to bring along a portable door lock just in case — even if you don’t end up using it. And regardless of your accommodation, packing a lock is a good idea for any international travel. “You’re usually going to be far less familiar with the type of area, and you’re not going to know if you picked a safe part of town or not,” Edwards says. Plus, it may be more difficult to find and purchase a lock once you arrive at your destination.

What to look for

Though portable door lock options are numerous, it’s important to focus on ease of use — both for installation and removal in case of an emergency. Alyanak advises travelers to keep it simple. One low-tech strategy that has worked for her: bringing a plastic doorstop to wedge underneath the door when she turns in for the evening. “They’re light; they don’t weigh anything. You can stick it in a shoe,” she says.

Whatever product you choose, it’s best if it comes in one piece, Kiser says. On his website, he reviews 10 portable door locks . If you’re traveling by plane, he recommends checking that your lock is TSA-compliant and won’t be confiscated if you pack it in carry-on luggage. For instance, door security bars such as the Buddybar Door Jammer are extremely effective against both forcible and unforced entry but probably aren’t allowed in carry-on bags, Kiser says.

A popular option is the Addalock , which is small and, at $17.95, fairly inexpensive. The device recently gained a lot of attention on TikTok as more people worked from home and wanted additional security, inspiring videos such as this one . The Addalock has a steel piece that’s inserted into the door strike, then locked into place with a handle. It takes less than a minute to install, and like a doorstop, it’s easy to uninstall under emergency conditions. Another option is the DoorJammer portable door brace, which is priced at $29.99 and fits underneath the door. It’s extremely secure, Kiser says, though potentially trickier to remove in a hurry.

Some products not only make it more difficult for someone to enter your room from outside but also feature alarms to further discourage intruders. Sabre’s $13.99 Door Stop Alarm emits a 120-decibel noise if it senses pressure from a door opening inward.

One caveat: All of the above options are designed for inward-swinging doors. Securing doors that open toward the outside, such as those in motel rooms, is more challenging. Fortunately, you don’t always need a physical barrier to keep out unwanted visitors. Criminals prefer not to draw attention to themselves, so devices that simply sound alarms if a door is jiggled can be effective deterrents.

These motion-sensor alarms are suitable for both inward- and outward-swinging doors. Because they hang on a knob or handle without restricting door movement, you don’t need to worry about uninstalling them during an emergency. One example is the Sabre Door Handle Alarm , which costs about $10.

Alyanak decided to use a motion sensor alarm in her room after a fellow guest’s shoes were stolen at the backpackers’ hostel where she was staying in South Africa. These devices produce a piercing sound loud enough to wake you, your neighbors and the front desk, too. That’s usually enough to scare off a wrongdoer, says Alyanak, because “the last thing they want is a hotel manager to come by.”

Whatever kind of lock you choose may be less important than simply having one. Packing a portable door lock or alarm can help you feel more prepared and comfortable heading into that long-awaited vacation. “The biggest thing that security measures and locks and extra things do for us is make us feel safe, so that we can let our guard down and relax,” says Edwards. Even if the lock remains tucked away in your suit case for the entire trip, you’ll feel better knowing it’s there if you need it.

Rich is a writer based in Wisconsin. Her website is lovehopeandcoffee.com . Find her on Twitter ( @GinaRichWriter ) and Instagram ( @lovehopeandcoffee) .

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The 16 Best Travel Safety Products of 2024

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Ensuring your personal safety and well-being is just as important as making memories and enjoying la dolce vita while traveling (if not more so). Luckily, staying safe while abroad or on a trip across the country doesn’t take much to get right. Simply come prepared with a few travel-focused safety products to give you peace of mind while you’re on the move. 

We’ve rounded up some of the best safety products available, including those which we personally use. We especially love the Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, Monsin Door Stop Alarm, and Raytix RFID Money Belt, which can all help you stay safe in any situation you might encounter while traveling.

Best Door Wedge

Monsin door stop alarm.

This door stop doesn’t just block unwanted visitors — it actually includes a built-in alarm that will sound if someone tries to tamper with your hotel room door.

This alarm is very sensitive and could go off if room service or housekeeping staff attempt to enter your room.

It can be hard to fall asleep in a strange hotel room — even if it’s a plush five-star property. Whether you’re traveling solo or have a travel buddy sharing your room, the Monsin Door Stop Alarm is a great option for giving you peace of mind while you’re sleeping. Just wedge it into the closed hotel room door and it’ll keep unwanted visitors out by acting as a powerful doorstop. This option also comes with a built-in alarm that will ring if anyone tries to tamper with or open your door.

Best Secondary Door Lock

Winonly travel door lock for hotel rooms.

This budget-friendly door-locking system adds another layer of security to your hotel room and is pretty simple to set up.

This option might not fit very well on doors that have weatherproofing or other large seams along the doorframe.

The Winonly Travel Door Lock for Hotel Rooms is a great safety alternative for travelers who don’t want an alarm triggered when hotel staff enter the room for cleaning or turn-down services. Use this portable door lock by attaching it to the hole on the door jam, then inserting the red handle into the lock-in-place. It’s quick and efficient to use and install, and can also be easily removed in the dark for emergencies that require quick evacuation.

Best Personal Alarm

Birdie personal safety alarm.

This personal safety alarm is small, subtle, and can easily be slipped into your pocket or handbag.

Some reviewers note that this alarm should be louder and more offensive, especially for those traveling in big cities.

You never know when a personal safety alarm will come in handy — even in your own hometown or city. This alarm will immediately draw attention to you if your personal safety is threatened, if you encounter a pickpocket, or find yourself in any other unsavory situation.

This small device looks more like a USB drive than a personal safety alarm, and it fits conveniently into your pocket or handbag so you can keep it on you at all times. The compact alarm system sounds when you remove the top pin. To turn it off, just slide the pin back into place. 

Best Motion Detector

Crevant portable mini motion detector alarm.

This compact motion detector is ultra-lightweight and small, so it’s easy to slip into a suitcase or carry-on bag.

The instructions aren’t very clear which makes the initial setup a bit difficult.

This small but mighty portable miniature motion detector alarm is a great alternative (or add-on) to a door wedge or door alarm. The compact safety product is extremely quick to trigger the alarm if it senses movement in the direction it's pointed — making it a great option for larger hotel rooms or suites where you don’t have your eye on the entrance at all times. Make sure to keep the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your door so you don’t set off a false alarm when housekeeping or other hotel staff attempt to enter your room.

Best Retractable Cable Lock

Lewis n clark triple security lock.

This cable lock offers extra strong, triple-security material that ensures it can’t be cut through or tampered with.

The lock itself can sometimes be finicky and may take a few minutes to get open.

Travel safety products range beyond personal safety items — to ensure a safe trip, you’ll also need to think about keeping your belongings secure while en route, and when you’re out and about. That’s where the Lewis N Clark Triple Security Lock comes in. This extra-strength lock can prevent thieves from getting into your handbag or backpack — even your bike bag . It’s also TSA-approved, which means you can use it on your checked luggage without worrying about having it cut off or confiscated while in transit.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Accuracy 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

This subtle and compact tracker can easily be thrown in your handbag, backpack, or suitcase.

It is only compatible with Apple devices.

Most frequent flyers will tell you to buy a luggage tracker immediately if you plan on checking your luggage or taking a large carry-on on the plane with you. Adding the Eufy SmartTrack Link to your suitcase will allow you to easily track your belongings at all times. So if you do end up losing your luggage while in transit, you can pinpoint where it is — which can actually help the airline crew to expedite the process of getting your luggage back to you. We found the Eufy SmartTrack Link to be easy to use with Apple's Find My app, so you don't waste time learning a new system or downloading additional apps.

Best Portable Safe

Pacsafe travelsafe portable safe.

This portable safe isn’t imposing or heavy like a traditional metal safe — but it’ll keep your valuables just as secure while on the move.

The slim shape and flat bottom make it difficult to fit items like laptops or cameras.

Keeping your gear secure while at the beach can be a challenge — especially for solo travelers who don’t have someone with them to watch their stuff while they take a dip in the water or grab a drink at the pool bar. That’s where the Pacsafe Travelsafe Gii 5 Liter Portable Safe comes in. This unique portable safe isn’t a traditional metal security box — instead it’s lightweight and easily portable for travel. Another key feature is that it can easily be locked to a tree or a pool chair, making it extremely difficult for potential thieves to make a stealthy getaway with your belongings.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

This money belt fits beneath your clothing without looking bulky or obvious.

The small inside pocket is in the corner of the bag, so it's difficult to actually fit items inside.

If you’re more comfortable keeping your valuables hidden away in a discreet money belt than in a backpack or handbag, then you should absolutely consider the Raytix RFID Money Belt. When tested, we found it especially useful for carrying large amounts of cash or for storing passports on you for long periods of time.

This budget-friendly money belt is ultra-slim, discreet, and features RFID-blocking technology to ensure your cards stay safe from potential thieves. Plus, the two front pockets help keep you organized to access all items easily and quickly.

Best Anti-theft Backpack

Sherpani esprit at.

• Capacity 3 /5

This backpack features a slash-resistant bottom, zippers that clasp together, and can be worn on your back or front.

The small front pocket is a bit too small for most smart phones.

This anti-theft crossbody backpack is a stylish yet functional option for any adventure. It can easily be worn on your front or back and the shoulder strap is secured with a clip, so you don't need to lift it over your head to put on or take off. It is made from recycled materials and features a slash-resistant bottom, plus other safety features like RFID protection, locking zippers, and a wire-loop chair lock.

This bag is also the perfect size for day trips and features plenty of pockets, including an exterior water bottle pocket and shoulder strap pocket to keep small essentials easily accessible. With seven fun colors and patterns to choose from, the Sherpani Espirit offers something for everyone trying to stay safe on the go.

Best Hidden Stash Spot

Lokistashed 3-pack velvet hair tie scrunchies.

This hidden stash spot doubles as a functional (and stylish) hair scrunchie.

The zipper isn’t easy to hide and is noticeable on the lighter colorways.

Looking for a spot to safely stash a handful of cash without having to bring along your wallet or handbag? LokiStashed 3-pack Velvet Hair Tie Scrunchies are among our personal favorite options when it comes to discreet storage on the go. These velvet scrunchies function the exact same way a regular scrunchie does — but you can easily store at least a few folded-up bills inside without drawing any attention. It’s great for traveling in busy cities, and is a convenient choice if you’re heading out the door at home and don’t want to be weighed down with a handbag.

Best Fake Wedding Band

Thunderfit women breathable air grooves silicone wedding ring.

This affordable and comfortable silicone wedding band will send the desired message without attracting thieves or appearing overly flashy.

These wedding bands run large so you might want to size down at least a full ring size in order to ensure a proper fit.

Depending on where in the world you’re traveling , you may experience unwanted attention — especially if you’re a solo female traveler. If you’re worried about finding yourself in a situation where you feel harassed or unsafe, then wearing a fake wedding band might be a smart idea.

The ThunderFit Women Breathable Air Grooves Silicone Wedding Ring is a great option for this purpose. It isn’t flashy like a diamond engagement ring, so it won’t attract attention from potential thieves, but it’ll still send the right message to those who might otherwise be difficult to shrug off. These rings are waterproof and breathable, so you won’t have to worry about developing an unsightly green line across your finger, either.

Best First Aid Kit

First aid only all-purpose essentials first aid kit.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Organization 3 /5
• Quality 4 /5

This kit includes everything you need in a pinch.

At over nine inches long, it's not the most compact first aid kit out there.

This handy first aid kit comes with all the essentials from ibuprofen tablets to tweezers. Whether you're exploring a major city or hiking a new trail, this kit can help in the case of blisters, burns, headaches, cuts, and more. The 298-piece kit is organized with like-items together, so you can quickly access exactly what you need. Plus, it comes in a lightweight and waterproof carrying case so you can leave it in your vehicle or pack in a day bag to ensure that you're fully prepared for health issues on the go.

Best Passport Wallet

Melsbrinna waterproof rfid-blocking travel wallet.

Your passport fits snugly on one side of the wallet, so it's easy to slide out at customs.

There is no space to store coins.

We love a wallet that's large enough to safely store your passport and this Melsbrinna case is the perfect, safe-yet-stylish option that even includes RFID-blocking technology. Your passport sits on one side of this wallet and the other side features four slots for your credit cards, ID, transit cards, and more. There is also a pocket designed to hold your ticket or other important small documents and two pockets made to keep SIM cards safe. Throughout our travels, we loved that this passport wallet kept all of our items secure, but never felt cumbersome and, in fact, easily fits inside any purse or travel backpack.

Best Reflective Layer

Rei co-op active pursuits cycling jacket.

It's light, wind-resistant, and water-repellent, so it will keep you comfortable in any weather.

The hood may not fit over all bike helmets.

For a reflective layer that will guarantee you're seen whether hiking, walking, cycling, or running, this REI jacket in men's and women's sizes is the perfect choice. The neon yellow fabric features 360-degree reflective details to keep you visible even at night and is so light you can wear it year-round. If you're running or cycling in the heat, the underarm vents area breathable addition that also improves mobility. In winter months, this lightweight layer won't add too much weight to your standard set-up, but will keep you safe as the sun sets earlier.

Best Safety Bracelet

Flare smart safety bracelet.

Without touching your phone, the Flare Bracelet can alert your friends and/or emergency services of possible danger.

It is not yet compatible with Androids.

When traveling solo or to a new location, this bracelet helps keep you connected and safe. The discreet bracelet looks like an average stylish accessory, but uses Bluetooth technology to pair with an iOS app, so you can tap the bracelet in different ways depending on your needs. Hold the hidden button down to text your location to your friends, press the button once to get a pre-recorded phone call to offer you an excuse to leave a situation, or press and hold the button for three seconds to send your location to emergency services.

The bracelet works even when you're up to ten feet away from your phone and the battery lasts a full year, so you don't have to worry about charging the device. It can also be used internationally as long as you have Wi-fi or cell services in your location.

Best Drink Tester

Philmedi gcheck date rape drug test sticker.

It's designed so you can stick it on the back of your phone for discreet and handy use wherever you go.

Each sticker can only be used once.

While we hope you would never feel the need to test your drink, it's always important to be prepared, especially if you're traveling alone or notice someone hovering near your beverage. These discreet stickers test for GHB in less than one minute, so you can protect yourself quickly and effectively. They're conveniently designed to be attached to your phone, wallet, or other item you always carry with a micro-film on the outside to be removed if and when you want to test your drink. Then, you simply tap a bit of the beverage on the sticker and wait to see if it changes color.

Tips for Buying Travel Safety Products

Consider every step of your journey.

You’ll want to think about the potential risks you’ll be taking throughout your trip, from getting there to exploring your destination, and while staying at your hotel or Airbnb —a travel-sized carbon monoxide detector , for example, can provide you with added peace of mind. Travel safety products range significantly from items focusing on solo female travelers’ personal safety to items that protect against theft. Think about where you’re going and what makes the most sense for the destination or type of travel you have in mind, and go from there.

Pick the best way and place to secure valuables

This is something to think about before embarking on your adventure — not just to avoid potential theft, but also to make sure you don’t accidentally misplace anything. You’ll want to know where your valuables are at all times, whether they be jewelry, cash and credit cards, or your passport. Keeping your belongings in a personal safe or money belt while traveling can help give you peace of mind while also keeping you organized. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a travel writer and solo female traveler to curate the best options to suit most needs.

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Home » Gear » What Is The Best Portable Travel Safe? Find a Safe for Beaches, Hotels & Busses

What Is The Best Portable Travel Safe? Find a Safe for Beaches, Hotels & Busses

Good luck getting home without your passport. Your typical bank safes will qualify for more than a few oversized bag surcharges at check-in, but that doesn’t mean you should travel without protection.

Whatever is important enough for you to pack and bring with you on a trip is valuable enough to someone out there, and opportunistic criminals have learned to look for large backpacks and foreign accents as easy targets.

Hopefully, you’ve learned the basics. Never take your eyes off your luggage and don’t fall asleep on night busses. Bringing along a portable travel safe will help take your safety a step further.

Whether you’re looking for something that keeps your valuables more secure while on your person or while packed away in your hotel room, portable travel safes are a great way to go the extra mile and make sure that everything that starts your trip makes it home with you at the end.

Don’t entrust your passport and wallet to any old lock and key. We’ll show you some of the best portable safe technology on the market so you can get a better idea of what these handy tools can do.

There are safes out there for all sorts of environments, so it’s up to you to find the best way to secure your valuables. These soft and packable containers are easy to pack but hard to access and will help you out whether you’re heading to the neighborhood zoo or Zambia.

In A Hurry? These are the best portable travel safes.

#1 – best portable travel safe –  pacsafe 12 liter, #2 – best small portable travel box –  trova go, #3 – best beach lockbox –  safego  , #4 – best steel mesh travel safe –  pacsafe 55l backpack protector, #5 – best laptop travel safe –  pacsafe x15, #6 – best fireproof travel safe –  bluepower file folder, #7 – best camping safe box –  keep safe lock box, #8 – best disguised travel safe –  demeras mini book, #9 – best travel jewelry box – amazon basics portable security case lock box safe, #10 – best safe backpack –  venturesafe x12 anti-theft pack.

Pacsafe 12 Liter

• > Packs flat
• > Knife-proof

• > Fits in a pocket
• > Seals odor

• > Affordable and durable
• > Allows earphone access

Pacsafe 55L Backpack Protector

• > Highly adjustable
• > Locks up your entire backpack

Pacsafe X15

• > Can be used as a carry-on bag
• > Fits two laptops

BluePower File Folder

• > Expands to hold electronics
• > Five layers of lightweight protection

Keep Safe Lock Box

• > Simple locking mechanism
• > Lightweight

Demeras Mini Book

• > Fits phones and travel documents
• > Comes with two keys

Amazon Safe Box

• > Steel tethering cable
• > Easy to use combination lock

Venturesafe X12 Anti-Theft Pack

• > Reinforced zippers
• > Honeycomb mesh is cut-proof

What Is a Portable Travel Safe?

Why use a portable travel safe, where to use a portable travel safe, what are the different kinds of portable travel safes, what size of portable travel safe is best, what is the best portable travel safe, final thoughts.

A travel safe is exactly what it sounds like. Through different techniques and methods, these portable safes allow you to securely lock and store your valuables wherever the journey takes you.

All styles of locking mechanisms, sizes, and security levels will come with a portable travel safe, so you can be sure to find the protection that works best for your adventures.

Just because these tools are called safes doesn’t mean you have to carry a bulky, heavy lockbox with you on your next trip. The latest portable travel safe iterations have flexible steel, mesh, and plenty of packable features.

Whether you want something to stow away in a hotel room, something you can keep with you at all times, or an entire bag that doubles as a lockbox, a portable travel safe that can fit in your luggage is an easy way to feel peace of mind and protect your valuables. Many travellers simply don’t think to be invest in a portable travel safe making them a great idea for a gift for backpackers.

It’s in the name! The only way to be 100% sure none of your valuables are going to be stolen is to stay at home, but a portable travel safe is a close second. Some hotels and hostels will offer a lockbox or valuables storage, but we can’t always count on that. 

Even if your destination comes with a Döttling Narcissus luxury safe,  portable travel safes will help make sure your valuables survive your travel days. These safes go beyond theft protection to offer water, wind, and fireproof places to store your goods.

Solo travelers can use portable safes to lock their gear down when it’s time for a bathroom break or finally feel comfortable falling asleep on the bus.

The list goes on and on.

If you’re lucky enough to ask this question, you may have never experienced a worst-case scenario of theft while traveling. At home or abroad, robbery can leave you stranded on the side of the road with nothing but an overwhelming sense of dread.

It may be tough to wrap your head around the necessity of keeping your valuables safe, but we highly recommend not waiting around until you’ve felt this hopelessness to invest in protection. There is no product out there that can prevent criminals from being criminals, but there is simply no situation where a portable travel safe won’t help make your valuables more secure. 

Whether your portable safe accompanies you through a bus ride, beach trip, or extended stay, you’ll hopefully never come across a situation where it’s necessary. If the worst happens, a good lockbox will make all the difference in the world.

You can use a portable travel safe wherever the road takes you. Lightweight and portable safes come small enough to stow your car keys before a day at the beach, and super tough aluminum shells let you keep your passport and credit cards locked away in your hotel room for days at a time.

Every safe on this list is suitable for use at beaches, hostel dorms, hotels, camping, and when boarding busses, trains or Tuk-Tuks. Depending on your needs, you’ll find a travel safe that locks down your larger backpack or a smaller device that holds a few essential documents.

Often made out of stainless steel or aluminum alloy, wire mesh technology is what made portable travel safes accessible to modern travelers. This lightweight mesh can wrap around your already existing bag and connect it to any fixture in your hotel room or any solid picnic table/beach chair while out and about.

Wire Mesh is used in all sorts of portable travel safes to connect the lockbox to any immovable object. Some safes take things a step further by offering a wire mesh exterior to wrap around your valuables, thus making any bag a travel safe.

Most famously created by Pacsafe, Travel Safe Bags feature anti-theft zippers, RFID blocking pockets, and numerous security features scattered throughout the packs. Some smaller bags come with one handle and use a mix of wire mesh and nylon wrapping to create a knife-proof shell that is light enough to carry in one hand. 

Other larger bags provide enough space to be used as carry-on or day bags with extra locking features. Any portable travel safe bag will include steel wire that allows you to easily attach the bag to any immovable object and lock down your valuables. 

These are a more traditional kind of portable travel safe. They are basically larger safes cut down and crafted out of lightweight materials that allow you to carry the boxes in your bag or pocket. Lockboxes typically don’t have enough space for you to protect every single item you travel with but are reserved for important documents, like your passport, wallet, keys, and cell phone. 

These boxes can be attached to larger fixtures with a lock to make sure they don’t go anywhere and also include a combination or key lock to open up. There are loads of varieties in lockboxes. You can find lockboxes with GPS tracking, carrying handles, and disguises. 

Different styles of travel safes are being invented every day. Modern travelers can find lockboxes explicitly designed for laptops, known as laptop cases, and document holders that can withstand wildfires and hurricanes.

Decide what it is you need to protect, and allow that to guide your search. You’ll be surprised at the variety in today’s travel safe market. 

First, ask yourself what you’ll be saving. 

Some barebones backpackers won’t be traveling with much more than the clothes on their backs, and those get funky fast. If you’re not too worried about someone running off with your dirty laundry, a small lockbox may be all you need to secure important documents in your hostel or hotel room. 

Other travelers, especially digital nomads, could be traveling with thousands of dollars of electronic equipment, most of which won’t fit in a typical lockbox. In this case, you’ll need a significantly more extensive travel safe.

If you want to protect your camera, laptop, and various gear, make sure you get a portable travel safe larger than your backpack, such as a wire mesh protector that will allow you to lock everything down with one key.

For those just looking to keep their keys and wallet secure while they head off on a surf or into the woods for a few days, a small lockbox will keep everything exactly where it needs to be without adding on extra pounds. 

The larger your lockbox, the more difficult it will be to transport, so think about what’s best for your particular nomadic lifestyle. 

The best portable travel safe is whatever best protects your valuables. 

What we’re saying is, the best travel safe for a hiker won’t be the best travel safe for a traveling photographer.  

That doesn’t mean there is no such thing as a lousy travel safe. Avoiding the pretenders and investing in a proper travel safe will save you money in the long run. 

An easily crackable travel safe is basically a box that says, “hey robbers, all the good stuff is right here.”

Best-in-class travel safes that have separated themselves from the pack by making sure no casual criminal can access your belongings as well as standing out as the best options for particular niches. 

Below, you’ll find industry-leading travel safes that have redefined peace of mind for traveling.

TBB amassed this list over thousands of hours of travel time and hundreds of close calls. Broke backpackers worldwide have entrusted their precious items to these portable travel safes and credit the technology packed into these protectors for getting home with everything in one piece. 

Here are the best travel safes for quick trips, long jaunts, and everything in between,  so you can find the perfect piece for peace of mind on your next trip.

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#1 – Best Portable Travel Safe – Pacsafe 12 Liter

Pacsafe 12 Liter is our top pick for best portable travel safe

• Dimensions: 1 x 13 x 20
• Lock Type: Combination
• Weight (lbs): 1.2
• Material: Polyurethane
• Price: $228

Reinforced in all the right places yet still flexible, you can safely pack 12 liters of valuables in this badass travel safe. We love how easily you can carry this protective shell without sacrificing safety. 

The lightweight exterior isn’t easy to crack, thanks to cut-resistant canvas fabric with a stainless steel wire webbing. Polyurethane works with this steel wire to create a completely malleable bag that will dispel any would-be thieves. 

They won’t be able to slice through the steel mesh wiring, and you can easily lock the bag across furniture and lamp posts to ensure your bag isn’t going anywhere. When not in use, the safe can lay flat and fit easily into your larger luggage. 

This Pacsafe lock comes in various sizes, everything from small locks capable of protecting your passport and essential documents to larger containers that can hold a laptop and camera equipment. 

• TSA-approved
• Knife-proof
• Largest size is only 12 L
• Lock is not bolt-cutter proof

#2 – Best Small Portable Travel Box – Trova GO

Our pick for best small portable travel box is Trova GO

• Dimensions: 6 x 3 x 1
• Lock Type: Bluetooth
• Weight (lbs): 1
• Material: Aluminum

We love that this travel safe can slide right into your pocket, and there is no way anyone is getting in here without permission. Hardly larger than a typical sunglasses case, the Trova GO is a perfect place to store your ID, credit cards, and valuable accouterments secure and close. 

Where this travel box really stands out is in its technical specs. 

The box communicates with a cellphone app that utilizes biometric authentication, powered by a battery. This authentication system means the only way inside the Trova go is through your cell phone, and more importantly, it enables GPS tracking. 

If someone takes off with your Trova Go, you’ll be able to track the device’s whereabouts for up to 73 days, and they’ll have little chance of busting open the aluminum alloy without your cell phone. 

The fact that there is no way to open up the Trova without a cell phone makes us a bit wary, as your cellphone has a higher risk of being stolen than anything else in your arsenal. Never store this lockbox and your cell phone in the same place. If both devices are stolen, all the GPS tracking in the world won’t make much of a difference. We recommend hooking up the Trova GO to an iPad or any device that doesn’t often see the front lines. 

While it’s not foolproof, this technologically advanced lockbox is really difficult to break through and provides excellent safety to small items. 

• Fits in a pocket
• Great mobility
• Difficult to open but easy to steal
• Too small to store a passport

#3 – Best Beach Lockbox – SafeGo  

Meet the best beach lockbox: SafeGo

• Dimensions: 7 x 4 x 7.5
• Lock Type: Combination, key
• Material: Alloy Steel

A crowded beach is a petty thief’s wet dream. Throngs of people throw their cell phones and wallets underneath their beach towels and wander off into the sea, leaving their valuables totally unprotected.

Depending on where you’re headed, you may be able to get away with taking a carefree splash, but if you risk it enough times, someone will eventually snatch up your day bag or flip-flops. 

Unless, of course, you bring the SafeGo with you.

This lightweight lockbox isn’t much bigger than a purse and comes with a built-in three-digit combination lock. You can store the big three (phone, keys, and wallet) as well as any other small electronic devices inside and easily hook up the steel cable to any immovable object. 

Lock up your keys to your car’s exterior before a surf or keep your passport locked to your hotel room’s desk and enjoy your day, knowing you’ll come back to everything in its right place. 

• Affordable and durable
• Can be connected to anything
• Allows earphone access
• Easy to carry off if not secured
• May be easy to crack with a screwdriver

#4 – Best Steel Mesh Travel Safe – Pacsafe 55L Backpack Protector

Pacsafe 55L Backpack Protector is one of the best steel mesh travel safe

• Dimensions: 5 x 4 x 2
• Lock Type: Snap
• Material: Stainless Steel

This handy wiring can turn any backpack into a travel safe. With capabilities up to 120 Weight (lbs), any backpacker can fit their entire contents inside this backpack protector, which then locks up to any sturdy furniture nearby. 

What’s so ingenious about this travel safe is its simplicity. You’re sure to have room in your luggage for this lightweight steel mesh, and you won’t have to change up any of your packing habits to make the piece work. The protector ships with a padlock and carrying case to keep things organized when not in use, and the wiring folds down to less than 6 inches when not in use. 

The utterly adjustable wiring can fit bags of all shapes and sizes. Simply slip your backpack inside the mesh wiring, tighten the straps, and loop the steel mesh around an immovable object. 

We recommend using your backpack’s rain cover or wrapping a blanket around your bag before you cover it in mesh, as the space between the stainless steel bands could allow thieves to access pockets if not correctly secured. 

It’s a simple and effective lockbox for securing your entire backpack, perfect before long bus rides or any transport where you won’t be close to your pack. 

• Highly adjustable
• Locks up your entire backpack
• Lightweight addition to your luggage
• Gaps in steel mesh
• Not ideal for smaller bags

#5 – Best Laptop Travel Safe – Pacsafe X15

Pacsafe X15 is our top pick for best laptop travel safe

• Dimensions: 7 x 13 x 15
• Weight (lbs): 1.7

Laptop bags come in all shapes and sized but few are theft proof. As you can see, Pacsafe is the number one name in travel security. The company has dreamed up travel safe’s big and small, all effective means of protecting the important things. The X15 is one of the largest travel safes the company offers and works surprisingly well as a portable safe capable of protecting all your valuables in the same location. 

The bag is protected by Pacsafe’s signature stainless steel wire mesh woven into a polyurethane canvas bag with an easy carrying handle and shoulder strap. An external wire mesh piece allows you to secure this bag to exteriors big and small, perfect for locking the bag to a chair while you run to the bathroom or your hotel room’s desk before a day of sightseeing.

The large size does open up some holes in security, as the bag can be knifed through easier than Packsafe’s smaller models. Treat this bag more like an incredibly secure carrying case than a safety deposit box.  

Inside the safe, there’s room for two laptops, cameras, cell phones, passports, jewelry, and anything else worth protecting. The bag can be used as a stand-alone laptop case with a shoulder strap and will fold flat when not in use. 

• Can be used as a carry-on bag
• Fits two laptops
• 5-year warranty
• Difficult to find
• Susceptible to wire cutters

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#6 – Best Fireproof Travel Safe – BluePower File Folder

Meet the best fireproof travel safe: BluePower File Folder

• Dimensions: 14 x 10 x 2
• Lock Type: None
• Weight (lbs): .4
• Material: Fiberglass

If Princess Leia didn’t have R2D2, she probably would have looked towards this file folder to keep the death star plans safe. Once it’s zipped up, your documents can handle flooding, explosions, and more. All of this protection is inside a casing that weighs less than a pound and can easily be tucked under flowing white robes.

This bag can handle some serious heat, capable of protecting important documents in temperatures up to 1000 degrees celsius. It’s not just for paperwork. The lightweight folder can hold jewelry, cash, tablets, and passports through floods, fire, and brimstone. 

This bag is best for those searching for protection from the elements more than criminals. It doesn’t ship with any locking mechanisms, but the carrying handle can easily be attached to a pair of handcuffs to lock around your wrists. It does ship with complete protection from fire, water, dust, and anything mother nature may throw at you. 

• Protected from the elements
• Expands to hold electronics
• Five layers of lightweight protection
• Does not ship with a lock
• Not the most reputable brand

#7 – Best Camping Safe Box – Keep Safe Lock Box

Our top pick for best camping safe box is Keep Safe Lock Box

• Dimensions: 7.87″x 6.30″x 3.54″
• Weight (lbs): ?1.88
• Material: Zinc Alloy
• Price: $19.99

This great, affordable option fits easily into your trunk or tent to keep everything safe at the campsite. Once you reach the campgrounds, you shouldn’t be using your cellphone, wallet, and keys anytime soon, and this convenient safe will allow you to store your valuables in a secure space and forget about them for a little while. 

A simple combination lock ensures there are no tiny keys to lose on the hike in. Do keep in mind that the thin metal won’t stand up against a bear attack. The good news is, as long as you don’t put any food in there, bears won’t spend much time trying to get at your wallet, and any human assailant will be quickly turned back by the reinforced lock and strong protections provided.  Get it added to your camping packing list.

• Works in the woods, beach, or gym
• Simple locking mechanism
• Lightweight
• Not Bear-proof
• Won’t fit an Ipad

#8 – Best Disguised Travel Safe – Demeras Mini Book

Demeras Mini Book is our pick for best disguised travel safe

• Dimensions: 7 x 5 x 2
• Lock Type: Key

The days of traveling with pocket guidebooks and dictionaries may be over, but still, most would-be thieve’s won’t think much about snatching up a new English dictionary. This clever safe takes the shape of a pocketbook and features a secret latch that reveals a small carrying space perfect for emergency cash, important documents, or passports. 

The light outer shell looks and feels like a regular book, but opening up the front cover reveals a stainless steel safe that criminals can’t access without a key. It even weighs less than an actual book, making sure you can fit it into all sorts of luggage. 

You can store your valuables in this dictionary and confidently leave the book in your hostel, knowing that no one has opened up a paper dictionary in years, and even if a suspicious customer does see through the ruse, the key is in your pocket. 

• Looks just like a book
• Fits phones and travel documents
• Comes with two keys
• If someone opens the cover, the jig is up
• Not large enough for a camera

#9 – Best Travel Jewelry Box – Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe

Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe is one of the best travel jewelry box

• Dimensions: 9.5″D x 6.5″W x 1.8″H
• Weight (lbs): 2.86
• Price: $21.47

The Amazon Basics Portable Security Case Lock Box Safe is the closest thing on our list to a traditional safe, serving up a lightweight lockbox that allows you to bring security with you on the road. A three-number combination protects jewelry, cash, or important documents and works great in your car or hotel room. 

Unlike a traditional safe, the box is lightweight and easy to move, but to combat that, Amazon added a steel tethering cable that quickly locks to any immovable object for a secure place for gold, silver, or passports. 

Some of the portable travel safes on our list are looking to redefine what a safe looks like, but this simple safe box just wants to make sure your valuables are secure. 

• Steel tethering cable
• Easy to use combination lock
• Fits a cell phone
• Not the most high-tech travel safe on the market

#10 – Best Safe Backpack – Venturesafe X12 Anti-Theft Pack

Venturesafe X12 Anti-Theft Pack is our top pick for best safe backpack

• Dimensions: 16 x 10 x 6
• Lock Type: N/A
• Weight (lbs): 1.5
• Price: $134

Why slip a safe into your backpack when you can have your entire backpack work as a portable travel safe? This Pacsafe bag allows you to travel with 12 liters of anti-theft design, all the way down to the interlocking zippers. 

The bag is made of lightweight steel mesh and polyurethane that promises to be relatively cut-proof without weighing half a ton. A detachable buckle runs along the mid-section and lets you lock your bag to any fixture. Whether you’re leaving for a few hours or a few minutes, you can secure this bag with ease. 

Inside the anti-theft backpack, you’ll find a laptop sleeve and mesh pocket. Exterior pockets are RFID blocking but still provide quick access to make security checkpoints a fast process. You’ll also find many features you can expect from a typical backpack, like water bottle pockets and padded shoulder straps. 

All of this is wrapped up in a water-repellent exterior shell to create a complete protection piece that lets you quickly lock up the entire contents of your bag. 

• Entire bag doubles as a safe
• Reinforced zippers
• Honeycomb mesh is cut-proof
• No lock included
• No external steel wiring

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

That about wraps it up. 

Whether you’re looking for a safe space for your passport or want to lock down your entire arsenal , you’ll find the protection you’re looking for in one of these travel safes. 

Don’t forget that no matter which travel safe you choose, they will only go as far as you take them. Your travel safe doesn’t do you any good tucked into the bottom of your backpack, and all it takes is one day of feeling like locking everything up is not worth the trouble for all your hard work to go to waste. 

There is no substitute for vigilance while on the road, but these travel safes, like the SafeGo , will help you keep your belongings secure and keep your head on the path ahead instead of stressing about what you left behind. 

If you’re one of the lucky few who have wandered the ends of the earth without wandering down the wrong alley or one of the lucky hostel-goers who hasn’t yet put too much faith in their roommates, don’t wait until you’ve been had to secure your valuables. Something as simple as the Trova GO will keep everything you need to get home safely within reach of your GPS.  

If you have felt the dread of coming back from a day out to find your bag turned inside out, don’t let that experience keep you from wandering. With the protection offered by the Pacsafe 12 Liter , you can head out for your day knowing that potential criminals will walk away only with a few pairs of dirty underwear. 

Aiden Freeborn

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"Another Amazon bestseller — 95% of its reviews are four or five stars — this stylish locker features a heavy-duty steel cable that will keep your phone, wallet, and valuables safe. Instead of asking someone to watch over your stuff, now you can swim in the ocean, fall asleep, or go to the bathroom whenever you want." - Business Insider

"A portable lockbox such as SAFEGO, which weighs only 1 pound, can help secure your valuables during outings or add protection in hotel rooms. It can fit all of the important things in your life, including your wallet, phone, a small camera and jewelry." - USA Today

"The most common dilemma about visiting the beach is what to do with your stuff when you take a stroll. Pack it all up? Take a risk of something being stolen? Try to hide it? With the SAFEGO Vacation Vault, you can lock up all of your valuables anytime you need to leave your beach area." - Travel Channel

"This portable, lightweight (but durable) safe holds jewelry, cash, credit cards, phones, and whatever other valuables you have on hand. The safe can be opened with a combination or a key, and it can be fastened to a chair or umbrella for further security. Take it to the beach or pool—or even the gym, a sporting event, or a tailgate—to enjoy yourself without worrying about your valuables." - Real Simple

"We’ve all been there. We’re at the beach and want to go into the ocean or grab something from the car but we can’t leave our stuff. Enter SAFEGO... This lightweight compartment comes with a patented lock mechanism and key access and it’s water resistant. You can even listen to music or charge your phone while your valuables are securely locked inside." - CBS New York

How to open

Key or 3-digit custom combination access.

SAFEGO can be opened using either keys or a 3-digit custom combination. Each SAFEGO comes with two keys, and the custom combination can be changed as often as you'd like.

Easy to carry

Lightweight.

SAFEGO is a lightweight safe that’s small and portable, but strong enough to keep all your valuables safe. There’s plenty of room to stash your wallet, cash, keys, phone, camera and sunglasses wherever you happen to be.

Attach it anywhere

17" adjustable steel cable.

SAFEGO's unique utility patent allows for seamless security. Simply wrap SAFEGO's 17" steel cable around any fixed object to lock your iPhone, GoPro, wallet, credit cards, medicine, or other personal items.

Built to last

Nickel plated, zinc alloy lock.

SAFEGO is made of high-impact ABS plastic and nickel-plated, zinc alloy. SAFEGO was built to stand the test of time.

SAFEGO in the news

Recent press.

Thrillist features SAFEGO as one of the "15 Must-Have Safety Gadgets Every Solo Traveler Should Own." Click here to view the feature!

Cosmopolitan

SAFEGO featured by Cosmopolitan Magazine as one of the 25 beach essentials every sun lover needs for 2022.

NewsWatch TV

NewsWatch features SAFEGO as one of the 4 best travel products for your next vacation.

Thousands of people around the world are revolutionizing the way they safeguard their valuables while they travel. Here's a little glimpse into the world of SAFEGO.

Let the green protect your green

New color release.

Green to protect your green. Wherever you are, SAFEGO's personal anti-theft travel bag / combination lock-box will protect cash, cell phones, wallet, jewelry, sunglasses, and more.  

Product specifications

Size : 7.1" x 4.2" x 7.5" Weight : 1 lb Interior space : 88 in³

Details matter

Unique features.

Want to listen to music or charge your electronics while keeping them out of reach? SAFEGO comes with an adjustable plug opening so you can access your electronic devices.

Safety tips & advice

Why you need a portable safe for your winter Caribbean vacation

Planning a winter getaway to the Caribbean? Don't forget to pack a portable safe! A portable safe is a small, lightweight, and easily transportable...

7 Ways to Make Traveling More Efficiently

Even for seasoned travelers, taking a trip can be stressful. Logistics have to be sorted out and (in most cases) money has to be spent to make it a...

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You'll easily find hundreds of travel accessory recommendations that range from very general to overtly specific. If you travel frequently, you'll ...

As featured in

SAFEGO is a portable and lightweight travel safe, functioning as both an outdoor key safe and a custom combination lock-box. Use SAFEGO in any setting and protect your smart phone, keys, cash, wallet, camera, sunglasses, jewelry, etc. With its high quality features, SAFEGO can virtually attach to anything, functioning as a personal safe and lock box with limitless uses.

Recent Reviews

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Love this!!!!Traveled all over Thailand solo and could lock my things to a pole or something on the beach while I swam, etc. worry free!

I bought the blue one and took it with me on our last trip. I never trust the hotel safes because someone there has to be able to get into it in case there's a accident or something else. Maybe I'm wrong and then they charge you to open it but now I don't care. I bought the Safego in blue and took it with me and hung it in the closet between clothes. My family didn't even notice it until the last day and I felt very confident leaving the room with the good jewelry I'd decided to bring along safely inside. It's a great idea. And I get why they don't make black because they want you to remember to get it if your leave it attached to a gate if you're at the beach or something but I think for continued home use, to blend into the depths of a closet, black would be best. I love mine, I'm going to buy them for other people as gifts.

We used this as an additional way to lock up items in our hotel room while traveling abroad. We had read some reviews about in-room safes being broken into so I decided to give this a try. It worked really well. We put cash, credit cards, and passports in this rather than take the chance of using the room safe. Combination was easy to change too. I would recommend for traveling.

This is a great product! We used it on our last trip to the MX and other beach areas. Great deterrent to theft. Through cell phone and room keys in there and attached it to chairs, boat railings (while snorkeling), and bar stools. Also used it to pack sunscreens and breakables for trip back in checked bag.

This is a great way to have some piece of mind. I go to dance contest and when you leave your table or chair to dance, I feel my valuables are safe ! I gave one a present to my sister who beach vacations a lot, and she loves it!

Used it a lot on the cruise. Felt good about having the security knowing no one can get into it to get passports, money, and phones.

Recently used this on a trip to Jamaica. The safe in my hotel room was broken so I stored everything including cash, camera and phone in my Safego safe and attached it to the bar in the closet. It had plenty of room and was very easy to use. The next week I used it on a cruise and was able to take it on deck with me to lock up my stuff while I was in the pool.

We have a golf cart that we use to go to the beach, the mall or dinner and wanted to have a safe place to store our garage door opener and key to the golf cart as I don't want the hassle of carrying these items around. The Safego is perfect for us as it gives us a safe place to store things of value.

Bought this on a suggestion from a website for a cruise we are going on. Love this!! Good quality and easy to change the passcode. Tough and durable and fits a large phones (iPhone 7plus and a Galexy S7) and has room for a few other things!!! Will be able to not worry about our stuff going missing since we will be on a beach we can clip to our beach chairs and know that our stuff will not be going anywhere. Also has enough room on the clip to add a bag strap so that our bag will also stay put!

A friend on a cruise had this. I found it on Amazon and got one right away. Now I won’t have to get a locker at a pool or beach or have to try and hide my wallet. Great item. Great wire enclosed strap and nice Key/Combination lock.

Recently went on a trip to Cancun. This was great as we didn’t have to worry about our phones and money and could enjoy the pool and beach!

This little safe is perfect for my daughter away at college. It's keeps documents & her jewerly safe in her dorm room.

Just received my safego. Haven’t used it yet. Waiting for the warmer weather but so far easy to program with my code. Lightweight and good solid quality plastic. Big enough to hold essentials—-Phone, keys, wallet, tissues and even small sunscreen. Roomier than it looks.

Love this. Went on a cruise and used it everyday to secure 2 pool lounge chairs. Took ashore and used on beach. Works well. A lot of people asked us about it... Where we got it and how much. We will get a lot of use out of this.

Love it!! Used at the waterpark all summer saved me from renting lockers! Wish it was a little bigger my iPhone 6plus fit but my friend had a outer box 6plus case on her iPhone and I had to squeeze it close for both.

Bought this for my grandson in college to keep his valuables safe. He said it works great. Good value and prompt delivery. Very satisfied.

Perfect for college!

This is an awesome item and a must have for college

Perfect! Just the right size for my daughters to use for hiding money and valuables while away at college. The cord is big enough to wrap around and under bed frame... no one would even recognize it's there.

Great safe for securing prescription meds in a college dorm room! Easy to use and locks around the bed frame.

Excellent little safe. Bought it for my daughter to use in her dorm room at college. It's perfect- we hung it from her bed & she keeps her money & valuables in it. The combination is easy to set. I would recommend this product.

The safe was for my son's dorm room and works just how we need it to. The safe is just the right size and will hook around furniture so no one can walk off with it. It is used for prescriptions and credit and gift cards. The safe arrived on time and worked as described.

Perfect for providing a way for your college student to lock up those key valuables. Large enough to hold checkbook, phone, gift cards and more, but small enough to fit easily in the small dorm room without taking up valuable space! Also, it is portable to secure valuables when you are out and about. Highly recommend it for college students.

We bought this for my son to take to college. He wanted a safe to keep his valuable items, cash, camera etc. It is the perfect size and easy to manage. I like that it has a cord/chain so it can be secured.

Got this safe for my daughter to use in her dorm room. She loved it! Something not everyone thinks about, but very practical. And what is so nice is that it can be used in the future for all sorts of occasions. It seems to be constructed well and I anticipate it lasting for years.

Bought it for my son's dorm. It's easy to set and fits easily out of sight. Bottom line is that if someone wants your stuff badly enough they'll get it. This is a good deterrent and place to put small items like a wallet or extra cash. Perfect for our needs.

I bought this product for my daughter to use in her dorm. It is her first year at college and I thought this was a great product for her. So far so good!! It was so easy to use too! Good luck! I actually told a lot of people about it! I hope they bought it!!!

Love this little lock box! We bought one of these after being at a water park with a friend who was using one. We got ours and it has worked great already several times going to a waterpark and a state park where we couldn't carry all of our stuff with us the whole time. It's super easy to set the code on the box and you have the key as a backup just in case you forget! So far, we have stored both in iPhone 7 Plus, and iPhone 6, a set of keys and a men's and women's wallet in it at one time. It's a major money saver over time (don't have to rent a locker), it seals well, it locks easily and holds enough to be effective but not so much that it's overly bulky. Great buy!

Bought this for my daughter's dorm room. Easy to set combination, easy to use, perfect size to hold her passport and a few pieces of nice jewelry. Fits perfectly in her tiny dorm room desk drawer.

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The best tsa-approved products for seamless traveling, from locks to bags.

Sail through checkpoints with aplomb with these packable powerhouses, including a stylish pet carrier, a compact stroller, toiletry must-haves and more.

By Alesandra Dubin

Alesandra Dubin

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The modern age of jet travel can be so undignified — with all of the restricted liquids and backed-up security checkpoints and none of the smart-looking suits and in-flight carving stations of the PanAm golden years. These days, the key to making it work is amassing niche expertise about TSA minutiae, having TSA PreCheck, and stocking up on the right gear.

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The 35+ coolest father's day gifts for every kind of dad, from nike kicks and pizza ovens to lego sets and more, beyoncé, olivia rodrigo and taylor swift have worn aupen's 'it' girl bags -- here's the next restock date.

Related: The Best Travel Hacks From Flight Attendants and Hollywood’s Fashion Insiders

Everlane Renew Transit Weekender

Meghan Markle is among the cadre of celebs who appreciate the sleek, quiet luxury of Everlane’s logo-free and eco-friendly travel bags. This TSA-approved weekender is tricked out with features, including a padded laptop sleeve, two water bottle holders, an exterior zip pocket, and a trolly handle sleeve that also doubles as a pocket. Carry it as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or in hand. This bag is made from 100 percent recycled polyester from recycled plastic bottles.

Stanley Legendary 1.5-Quart Bottle

Pro tip: TSA permits liquids over three ounces as long as they are in their frozen state — and remain fully frozen through the checkpoint. So freeze your water in the internet’s favorite water bottle du jour , hydrate as it melts, and reuse the vessel over and over again at your destination. This cool Stanley in neon hues has double-wall vacuum insulation, a twist-and-pour stopper for a smooth pour and an insulated lid that doubles as a cup.

Kind Laundry Detergent Sheets

Need to stretch your carry-on-only wardrobe as far as possible? Plan to launder some of your staple pieces and re-wear them. Make it easy with these eco-friendly and TSA-compliant laundry detergent sheets by Kind , which take up close to no space (and produce no landfill waste). The pack of premeasured, pre-cut sheets easily drops into a backpack or even a purse. 

Cadence The Honeycomb Set of 7 Flex Capsules

TSA’s liquids restrictions, combined with exorbitant costs and notorious mishandling associated with checking luggage, necessitate the need for a good system for packing toiletries. Cadence’s aesthetically appealing travel capsules are made for performance, with super-tight locking lids and magnetic sides that connect like a honeycomb. Customizable top tiles let you view what’s inside at a glance. 

Lysol to Go Wipes

The pandemic may officially be over but there’s always a buffet of germs swirling around airports and airplanes just waiting to get you sick and derail your travel plans. Safeguard against it with these TSA-complaint wipes that kill 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria, including eright cold and flu viruses. Pro tip: Take one out of the resealable pack when you get on the plane and wipe down your tray table, armrests and other high-touch surfaces. 

BAGSMART Clear Toiletry Bag, 2 Pack

TSA’s 3-1-1 rule requires travelers only bring liquids, gels, creams, aerosols and pasts must be in a 3.4-oz. container or smaller, and that all of those products should fit in one clear quart-sized bag. Bagsmart’s clear zippered toiletry bags meet all of these guidelines — and we like that this two-pack is affordable and comes in a variety of colors.

Tumi TSA Luggage Locks

Keep your stuff secure on your journey —and increase your peace of mind — by locking it up. But, to avoid an unpleasant surprise when you reclaim your checked bags, make sure you use a TSA-approved style. The agency recognizes and approves this style of lock , so agents can open them as needed without cutting the lock or damaging your bags in the process. Solidly made and built to last, these luggage locks come in a pack of three colors for easy identification. 

HiBar Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Sure, TSA puts a max on liquids. But if your shampoo and conditioner aren’t in liquid form, you can sidestep the issue entirely. Carry them in solid form with this shampoo and conditioner bar set by HiBar, formulated with rice water and vitamin B for volumizing and adding texture. Eco-friendly and travel-ready, these products are plastic-free , right down to the shipping materials. (Grab the coordinating pouch for efficient travel.)

Apple AirTag

Whether you’re checking luggage or bringing a carry-on , TSA has to screen it — and that means plenty of opportunities for loss or other mismanagement. Keep tabs on all of your stuff by outfitting every piece with its own GPS tracker in the form of an AirTag , which is on sale for 14 percent off (or get 20 percent off when you buy the four-pack ). Then follow it throughout the journey using the Find My app.

Wild One Pet Carrier

Wild One’s TSA-compliant pet carrier is stylish and understated, available in black or chic tan and limited edition colors (like this k. The inside is roomy, and the breathable mesh walls allow two-way communication with your little buddy. The carrier also folds out to become a travel mat for dogs to lounge on in the airport — and wherever else your travels take you.

Munchkin Sparrow Ultra-Compact Stroller

If you know, you know: Traveling with all the gear needed for littles can be a whole to-do. Make it easier by keeping a compact stroller with you at all times in the cabin. Munchkin’s Sparrow ultra-compact folding stroller folds down to fit in tight spaces, including overhead bins, ensuring hassle-free travel through TSA checkpoints and beyond. When folded down, it measures just 15 inches on its longest side and weighs under 13 pounds.

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How To Know If Your Luggage Lock Is TSA Approved

F or all of the exciting rewards and experiential benefits travel offers up, it also comes with an inevitable collection of potential risks. When airlines are included in your travel experience, one of those risks is damage to your luggage. Sometimes an airline damages your checked luggage as a result of being mishandled in transit. Other times, it comes down to that luggage lock you placed before departure.

Many travelers put a lock on their checked luggage in the hopes of further protecting their personal belongings. However, that lock may have to be broken off during the check-in process. This would be done by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the government agency responsible for airport security checks across the U.S.

Around 1.4 million checked bags are screened by TSA daily. Agents are charged with looking for everything from dangerous items to potential explosives. Beyond baggage screens, TSA agents also have the right to physically inspect the interior of bags. Doing so will require the forced removal of any locks you've placed on your luggage that aren't TSA approved.

While passengers aren't required to fly with a TSA approved lock on their luggage, it certainly makes inspections easier. It can also reduce the risk of damage to your luggage while helping you avoid paying for a lock that will only end up unusable after an inspection. Fortunately, knowing if your luggage lock is TSA approved is both simple and easy.

Purchase Locks Through TSA Partner Companies

The easiest way to know for sure if your luggage lock is TSA approved is to determine what company manufactured it. Currently, the TSA has master keys to locks produced by both Travel Sentry and Safe Skies Luggage Locks. The agreements between these companies and TSA allow agents who need to inspect passenger bags to use a master key to open and replace the locks safely and easily without having to destroy them in the process.

Both companies provide products with patented, TSA approved locking mechanisms in place. Travel Sentry first came about in 2003 and Safe Skies Luggage Locks followed closely behind in 2004. With TSA agreements firmly in place, these approved luggage lock companies provide passengers with easy access to purchasing their products online and in stores across the globe.

The websites for Safe Skies Luggage Locks and Travel Sentry both clearly outline their partnership with TSA and how the locks can be easily removed without having to be "clipped" during inspections. Safe Skies Luggage Locks has a lifetime warranty in place on their products. In the event the lock is mistakenly clipped, they'll replace it free of charge.

Look For Those Bold Logos

Another great indicator that you're traveling with a TSA approved luggage lock is an easy-to-identify logo. Both Travel Sentry and Safe Skies Luggage Locks have opted for eye-catching red logos to stand out in a crowd. The locks themselves can differ in shape and size but whether you purchase a dial lock, a lock and key variety, or a cable lock, the red logos are a constant.

Travel Sentry products come with a bold red diamond logo on every product they produce. If you've purchased a TSA approved product through Safe Skies Luggage Locks, your lock will come with a red torch logo on the front instead. Both make it clear to TSA agents that your bags can easily be inspected as needed without hassle.

Anytime you have the option of making travel smooth and reducing stress, it's an effort worth investing in. Purchasing a TSA approved luggage lock helps security agents with inspecting your bags and cuts down on the number of locks you'll have to buy over time. It's a simple act that can go a long way toward improving your travel experience.

Read this next: 10 Items Better To Buy Than Pack

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• Fact Sheets

Fact Sheet: Presidential Proclamation to Suspend and Limit Entry and Joint DHS-DOJ Interim Final Rule to Restrict Asylum During High Encounters at the Southern Border

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration took decisive new action to strengthen border security, announcing a series of measures that restrict asylum eligibility, and significantly increase the consequences for those who enter without authorization across the southern border. These extraordinary steps, which will be in effect during times when high levels of encounters exceed our ability to deliver timely consequences, will make noncitizens who enter across the southern border ineligible for asylum with certain exceptions, raise the standard that is used to screen for certain protection claims, and speed up our ability to quickly remove those who do not qualify for protection.

These actions follow a series of steps that the Administration has taken over the past three years as it prepared for the end of the Title 42 public health Order, and since it was lifted last year, including surging personnel, infrastructure, and technology to the border, issuing the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways Rule, and referring record numbers of noncitizens into expedited removal. Over the past year, we have removed or returned more than three quarters of a million people, more than in any fiscal year since 2010. Despite these efforts, our outdated and broken immigration and asylum system, coupled with a lack of sufficient funding, make it impossible to quickly impose consequences on all noncitizens who cross irregularly and without a legal basis to remain in the United States.

The Administration has repeatedly called on Congress to provide the resources and legal authorities needed to secure our border. The measures announced today will better enable the Department to quickly remove individuals without a legal basis to remain in the United States, strengthening enforcement and change the calculus for those considering crossing our border irregularly. However, they are no substitute for Congressional action. We continue to call on Congress to provide the new tools and resources we have asked for to support the men and women on the frontlines.

President Biden issued a Presidential Proclamation to temporarily suspend the entry of noncitizens across the southern border. The Secretary of Homeland Security and the Attorney General also jointly issued an interim final rule that, consistent with the Proclamation, generally restricts asylum eligibility for those who irregularly enter across the southern border – including the Southwest land and the southern coastal borders. The rule also limits fear screenings to those who manifest a fear or express a desire to file for protection and heightens the screening standard for statutory withholding and claims under the Convention Against Torture. Taken together, these measures will significantly increase the speed and scope of consequences for those who cross our borders irregularly or who attempt to present themselves at Ports of Entry without authorization, allowing the Departments to more quickly remove individuals who do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States. The restriction on asylum eligibility will be discontinued when encounters fall below certain levels but will come back into effect if encounters rise again.

The rule makes three key changes to current processing under Title 8 immigration authorities during periods of high border encounters:

• First, noncitizens who cross the southern border unlawfully or without authorization will generally be ineligible for asylum, absent exceptionally compelling circumstances and unless they are excepted by the Proclamation.
• Second, noncitizens who cross the southern border and are processed for expedited removal while the limitation is in effect will only be referred for a credible fear screening with an Asylum Officer if they manifest or express a fear of return to their country or country of removal, a fear of persecution or torture, or an intention to apply for asylum.  
• Third, the U.S. will continue to adhere to its international obligations and commitments by screening individuals who manifest a fear as noted above and do not qualify for an exception to the Rule for withholding of removal and Convention Against Torture protections at a reasonable probability of persecution or torture standard – a new, substantially higher standard than is currently applied under the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule.  

Like the Proclamation, the rule provides for an end to these enhanced measures following a sustained reduction in southern border encounters. Specifically, these measures are in effect until 14 calendar days after there has been a 7-consecutive-calendar-day average of less than 1,500 encounters between the ports of entry. The measures would again go into effect, or continue, as appropriate, when there has been a 7-consecutive-calendar-day average of 2,500 encounters or more.

During periods of high encounters, the Proclamation will apply across the southern border. Lawful permanent residents, unaccompanied children, victims of a severe form of trafficking, and other noncitizens with a valid visa or other lawful permission to enter the United States are excepted from the Proclamation.

In addition, the suspension and limitation on entry and rule will not apply to noncitizens who use a Secretary-approved process—such as the CBP One mobile app—to enter the United States at a port of entry in a safe and orderly manner or pursue another lawful pathway.

Noncitizens who cross the southern border and who are not excepted from the Proclamation will be ineligible for asylum unless exceptionally compelling circumstances exist, including if the noncitizen demonstrates that they or a member of their family with whom they are traveling:

• faced an acute medical emergency;
• faced an imminent and extreme threat to life or safety, such as an imminent threat of rape, kidnapping, torture, or murder; or
• satisfied the definition of “victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons” currently provided in 8 CFR 214.11.

Consequences

Noncitizens who are subject to the rule’s limitation on asylum eligibility and who manifest or express a fear of return to their country or country of removal, express a fear of persecution or torture or an intention to apply for asylum, but do not establish a reasonable probability of persecution or torture in the country of removal will be promptly removed.

Those ordered removed will be subject to at least a five-year bar to reentry and potential criminal prosecution.

The Proclamation and rule will significantly enhance the security of our border by increasing the Departments’ ability to impose swift consequences for individuals who cross the southern border irregularly and do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States.  Together, the Proclamation and rule make critical changes to how the Departments operate during times when encounters are at historically high levels—levels that, in the absence of these changes, undermine the government’s ability to process individuals through the expedited removal process. These changes will enable the Departments to quickly return those without a lawful basis to stay in the United States and thereby free up the asylum system for those with legitimate claims.

These extraordinary measures are a stop gap. Even with these measures in place, the Departments continue to lack the authorities and resources needed to adequately support the men and women on the frontlines. The Administration again calls on Congress to take up and pass the bipartisan reforms proposed in the Senate, which provide the new authorities, personnel, and resources that are needed to address the historic global migration that is impacting countries throughout the world, including our own. Until Congress does its part, we will continue to take any actions needed under current law and within existing resources to secure the border.

• Border Security
• Immigration
• Biden-Harris Administration
• Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
• Department of Justice (DOJ)

Never Lose your Combination Again with Store your Combo

Losing the combination or key code of a lock or safe is a common frustration in our hectic lives. Whether it's a traditional mechanical lock or a cutting-edge smart lock, these locks play a crucial role in safeguarding our valuables . Luckily, Master Lock and SentrySafe have simple solutions to retrieve and manage these important codes, relieving the stress of misplaced keys or forgotten combinations. 

Significance of Combinations and Key Codes

When it comes to security, having the right combinations and key codes is crucial for safeguarding your belongings. But if you lose or forget your codes, it can create major problems for you or your business. Relying solely on memory or physical copies of your combination raises security risks and leaves your valuables exposed to theft and unauthorized access. In today's world where security threats are everywhere, it's important to proactively manage and protect your access codes to keep your assets secure.

What to Do When the Combination Lock Won’t Open

As the most trusted brands in lock and safe security, both Master Lock and SentrySafe understand the importance of quick and reliable access to your valuables. When you use one of our locks or safes, losing a key or combination doesn’t have to mean disaster — there are steps you can take to retrieve or reset them.

Master Lock Store Your Combo and SentrySafe Register My Safe

When you purchase a Master Lock lock, you can register your combination with us so that it's securely stored online and accessible whenever you need it. To add a lock, register with your name, email address, lock nickname, product or model number, and combination or key code. The process is similar for SentrySafe’s Register My Safe . Create a secure account to ensure you never lose your combination or key code again.

If you no longer have access to the original email you used to sign up for Store Your Combo or Register My Safe, you can create a new account with a different email address, as long as you have the product’s serial number. If you need the combination or key code from the original account, customer service will need to verify your identity.

Retrieving Lost Combinations for your Master Lock Product

If you haven’t signed up for Store Your Combo, there are three options to retrieve your forgotten or lost combinations from Master Lock, which all require your product’s serial number.

• If you bought your combination lock from a distributor or retailer, you can bring the lock to them directly and ask the retailer to contact us on your behalf. Make sure that the combo lock is not attached to anything when you do. If the lock is attached or if you don’t bring the lock with you, we won’t be able to release the combination. U.S. distributors can call 1-800-308-9244, while Canadian distributors can call 1-800-227-9599. Please note that while Master Lock does not charge for this service, the retailer may charge a fee.
• Submit a Lost Combination Form to us directly. Locate your lock's serial number and print out the Lost Combination Form. Have the form notarized by a Notary Public to confirm that you are the lock's owner. You can include up to six combinations on one notarized form. Once completed, mail the form to the Master Lock Warehouse at 24 N Freeport Dr., Nogales, AZ 85621. Upon receiving your request, you can expect to receive your combination in approximately 4-6 weeks.
• Send us a photo of the lock by selecting the "Lost Combination" option on our Contact Form . Ensure that the lock is clearly shown and is not attached to anything in the image. The photo should display the entire lock and its serial number clearly. Please note that digitally edited photos won’t be accepted.

Retrieving Lost Keys for your Master Lock Product

  If you used Store Your Combo to save your key code, you can easily create new keys for your safe or lock. Locksmiths or hardware stores can reference the unique set of numbers or characters to cut a new key that matches the original without needing the physical key. If your key code is not available , your best bet would be to contact a locksmith to help open or remove your lock.

For SentrySafe, simply visit this website to retrieve your lost combination. You’ll need to pay a non-refundable fee and have the model number and serial number of your safe. When in doubt, you can always contact customer service for assistance in recovering a lost lock code or key.

Master Lock and SentrySafe are committed to protecting your valuables. We understand that keys can go missing, and combinations can be forgotten. That's why we provide tools like Store Your Combo and Register My Safe, offering a reliable solution to securely store your lock or safe codes and ensuring peace of mind in every situation.

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Is Quito Safe for Solo Female Travel? 10 Safety Tips for Quito, Ecuador

Solo female travel has increased drastically in the last two decades, from traditional land travel to cruising and beyond. As a huge advocate of solo female travel, I do it often. For me, the cons pale in comparison to the pros (heading to the beach, brunch, a bike ride or a nap whenever I want on vacation is unbeatable). Unfortunately, there are some destinations where traveling alone as someone who identifies as female can demand some serious street smarts.

Take Quito, Ecuador. There's a whole lot to love about Quito, which I witnessed myself, from Ecuadorian food bursting with fresh flavors to friendly and welcoming locals and easy access to nature. The city is even recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

However, Ecuador can be dangerous, and that includes the capital city of Quito. As of mid 2024, the U.S. Department of State advises increased caution: "Crime is a widespread problem in Ecuador. Violent crime, such as murder, assault, kidnapping, and armed robbery, is prevalent and widespread." Spotlight Initiative , a UN program to end violence against women and girls, also claims that, based on the statistics of femicides throughout the country, "every 28 hours a woman is murdered for gender-related reasons."

Considering all of this, you might reasonably be wondering if Quito is safe, especially for solo female travelers. Having traveled to Quito solo, I can say that yes, Quito is safe for female-identifying travelers, but taking extra precautions to better protect yourself can help make it safer. Here is our list of 10 safety tips for Quito as a solo female traveler.

1. Stick to the Tourist-Friendly Parts of Town for Hotels and Lodging (and Inquire About Security)

Your accommodation should have excellent security in place (ask about this before booking) and be in a safe area of the city. The safest areas for tourists in Quito include La Carolina, La Floresta, La Mariscal and Quito Old Town/Historical Center (Centro Histórico de Quito).

The financial district, which is La Carolina, is the most modern area of the city and is centered around a park with the same name. La Floresta is a hip, bohemian neighborhood in the city, especially popular with foodies, while La Mariscal bustles with restaurants, hotels and bars. This is your spot for a thrilling nightlife. Lastly, Quito Old Town is an entire district consisting of well-preserved colonial buildings and is the least-altered old city center in all of Latin America.

Even though these are considered relatively safe neighborhoods, things are a bit different in Quito at night.

2. Avoid Walking Around at Night in Quito, Especially Alone

At the time of publication, Quito's current curfew is 11 p.m. to 5 a.m., so being in the streets during this window is already not advised. However, hours surrounding them while it's dark outside are also known to be unsafe; even the U.K. government advises visitors to "avoid walking alone in quiet areas or at night."

I didn't personally walk around at night while visiting Quito, but I did take a tour-operated bus ride with others past curfew and the streets were deserted, including small groups usually outside of store fronts. Prior to that bus ride, I stubbornly assumed I would be just fine if I'd walked around by myself at night. Afterwards, however, I knew that I wouldn't be comfortable in some places because of low lighting and groups.

This isn't to say you can't explore the nightlife in Quito. If you do, take precautions. Don't walk around in the streets, even if your destination is within walking distance. Make sure you have a safe ride to and from your desired destination and you're traveling in a group.

3. Don't Hail a Cab. Use Private Transportation, Uber or EasyTaxi Instead

Uber and EasyTaxi are legitimate rideshare apps you can use while in Quito. All three allow you to pay via the app and show you your driver's information. EasyTaxi, for example, even shows you the driver's registration and their license.

Don't hail the city taxis found on the streets -- ever. Taxis have been reported to lead to kidnappings and victims being forced to withdraw money from an ATM. Some victims have been sexually assaulted and beaten as well, per the U.S. Department of State.

4. Travel with Others Whenever Possible

If anybody loves traveling solo with all their heart, it's yours truly. But, this is one of those places where traveling with others can simply be more comforting and possibly increase your own safety. Whether you go on day tours, meet new friends in your hotel or meet people on a Galapagos cruise , try your best to make friends and explore with them rather than go it alone.

5. Exercise Caution With Overly Friendly People in Bars and Nightclubs

As mentioned earlier, it's best practice to travel in groups (and making friends while traveling is one of the best parts of exploring the world). However, you might want to do a gut check with anyone overly friendly in bars and other establishments in Quito.

While statistics are unknown, there have been anecdotal reports of victims being offered things like food, drinks or even pamphlets that have been tainted with drugs like Scopolamine. Scopolamine is a drug that can temporarily but quickly incapacitate victims, and can be ingested by inhalation.

Politely decline anything offered to you -- even if someone looks well-mannered -- and simply walk away. If you believe you have been drugged, seek medical attention immediately.

6. Keep Valuables in a Lock Box or at Home

While we all may love our expensive jewelry and gadgets, leave these in your hotel room's lock box or, if possible, at home. Leaving off your jewelry or keeping it hidden makes you stand out less to chain snatchers and others. Theft is a major issue in Quito, especially the opportunistic kind (as it is in many tourist destinations around the world). It's better to leave these in a safe place behind than to wear them and unnecessarily put yourself at risk.

Keep your purse or small bag close to you and in front of you or within your eyesight at all times. It's fine to take out your phone and take photos once, but do so quickly and not next to a busy street where people riding past can reach out and steal it from you. Don't carry wads of cash in public and keep your passport in a safe location in your hotel room when possible.

7. Have Operating Cell Service and a Fully Charged Phone When You're in Quito

I'm a big fan of living in the moment -- visiting places and only using Wi-Fi as I go -- but there are certain places where having cell service is worth the extra expense. Quito is one of them.

Before arriving, set up international service with your cell phone provider so it's ready to go once you arrive in Ecuador. And, as always, make sure your phone is fully charged every time you go out. Bonus points for bringing a fully charged external battery and cable, too.

You'll want your phone fully operational, not only for using apps like Google Maps for navigational purposes, but also staying in contact with anyone you know locally or even calling emergency numbers.

In case of emergencies, call the local police in Quito by dialing 911. It's also recommended to keep the address and phone number of the U.S. Embassy in Quito easily accessible:

U.S. Embassy Avigiras E12-170 y Eloy Alfaro Quito, Ecuador Telephone: +593-2-398-5000

8. Keep Your Head on a Swivel at All Times

Be aware of your surroundings at all times, no matter where you are or if you're alone or with others. Notice available exits and the people around you -- and if they make you feel uncomfortable. The phrase "have your head on a swivel" is helpful in Quito, implying you should know what's around you in a 360-degree sense, not only what's in front of you.

9. Prepare Yourself for Catcalling

As a woman who appreciates and celebrates self-expression in outfits, it pains me to have to make this point but it's necessary. You'll likely get catcalled more often than you may be used to while in Quito, so if you want to minimize those chances, it's best to put on more conservative outfits. On the other hand, if catcalling rolls off of you like water, then dress as you'd like.

Don't engage with catcallers, no matter how tempting it may be or gratifying it might feel. Simply ignore them and keep going on your way.

As a seasoned solo female traveler, I feel compelled to share another small (optional) tip: Consider purposefully making yourself less eye-catching before going out. This is something that I do when I'm in countries or cities where catcalling and unwanted male-on-female attention feels more prevalent. This practice has also cropped up in conversations with other solo female-identifying travelers.

How do I do this? Honestly: Wear unflattering clothes; go without makeup; put your hair up or in a style that's not exactly becoming and even going so far as wearing neutral/dark colors (no pastels or neons). It's a sad truth, but this helps lessen the chances of getting unwanted attention.

10. Always, Always, Always Trust Your Gut

That brings us to our final and possibly most helpful point: Always trust your gut. If you get an uneasy feeling while out in Quito, listen to it and get away immediately. There's no need to push that feeling aside because, while you may be overreacting, your gut is often right.

Even if it's not, your gut feeling can make you uncomfortable to the point that you aren't enjoying your day exploring or might lead to more emotional distress that affects you in other ways. If that gut feeling arises, leave the area where you're uneasy. Again, be aware of your surroundings and duck into a busy restaurant or store nearby. You could also then find a safe path to your hotel while in a safe place.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Money blog: Slippery floors and a burst of heat - tricks shops use to get you to spend more

In the final part of our psychology of shopping series, we speak to fair fashion campaigner Venetia La Manna about the tricks fast fashion companies use to get people to spend, spend, spend. Read this and the rest of today's consumer news in the Money blog.

Thursday 6 June 2024 08:15, UK

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Ask a question or make a comment

By Emily Mee , news reporter

We've all been there. You have a bad day and you need a little pick-me-up - so you head straight to your favourite website to buy something new.

That hit of dopamine you get when buying something is what many businesses rely on - and no one seems to understand it better than fast fashion brands. 

But not only is this hurting our wallets, it's also harming the planet. 

In the final part of our psychology of shopping series, we spoke to fair fashion campaigner Venetia La Manna ( @venetialamanna ) - who advocates for a more sustainable approach to clothing - about the little tricks fast fashion companies use to get people to spend, spend, spend... 

Always in a rush - and slippery floors

Many of the techniques fashion companies use involve ensuring people feel rushed to make purchasing decisions. 

Ms La Manna says websites and social media pages are set up to make them look "very immediate" so we "always feel like we have to buy something before it's gone" - meaning you're not able to sit with a purchase and think about whether you need it. 

Fast fashion companies also keep an eye on trends and push out products as soon as possible to make sure people are "buying very, very quickly without necessarily much thought". 

And the sense of urgency is not just limited to online stores.

Ms La Manna says physical clothes shops will make sure their floors are slippery "so you can almost whizz around with more ease".

Often they will also have loud music to encourage "shopping in a frenzy". 

They know what you want

Fashion sites use "highly advanced" search engine optimisation to find out what kind of products their customers are searching for and push these items to them, Ms La Manna says. 

They also work with popular online influencers and get them to post affiliate links - meaning if you want to look like your favourite influencer or celebrity, you can buy what they're wearing "in just a few clicks". 

Ultimately, they are making things "very easy to buy" and often have shopfronts on popular social media sites like Instagram and TikTok. 

Plus, there is the issue of affordability. 

Many are driving their prices down so low that "it makes you feel like 'hey, why not' when it's cheaper than a sandwich or a coffee", Ms La Manna says. 

Heaters at the entrance

Physical shops use other techniques to entice customers to buy. 

For example, Ms La Manna says the heat changes when you go into the shop so you're "invited into a warmer environment". 

Shops are also set out in a specific way, often placing cheaper items near checkouts and easy outfit formulas near each other. 

The dopamine hit

With lots going on in the world, we may be more susceptible to falling into the spending trap than ever. 

"The world is really heavy and people are struggling. Buying fast fashion or buying stuff gives us a momentary hit of dopamine, and of course we need that - when we're suffering, when we're feeling low, [shopping] is an easy one to reach for," Ms La Manna says. 

Despite practising "slow fashion" - trying to buy less and more consciously - for years, Ms La Manna says she still has moments where she feels that buying something would make her feel better. 

But she says it's possible to get much-needed dopamine hits from elsewhere - including by being active in your community, or by taking your time to find something you really, really want (ideally secondhand!). 

Why does it matter? 

Aside from being bad for your wallet, Ms La Manna says overconsumption is also bad for the planet and for the garment workers making your clothes. 

She says many big fashion companies don't pay their garment workers a fair living wage - with many unable to provide food for their families, living in poverty and lacking paid time off. 

The overproduction of clothing is also harming communities in the global south who are left to deal with vast piles of unwanted items, she says. 

The majority of clothes taken to charity shops or recycling bins don't end up being resold - instead they are shipped off largely to places in the global south, where communities are "left to deal with a problem that's not theirs". 

For more information on slow fashion, Ms La Manna suggests checking out The Or Foundation, Remake and the Clean Clothes Campaign. 

Three whiskies created by Aldi have been named among the best in the world.

The budget supermarket took home three golds at the International Spirits Challenge awards for: 

• Glen Marnoch Highland Single Scotch Whisky (£18.49, 70cl)
• Highland Earl Blended Scotch Whisky (£16.89, 1L)
• Samuel Joe’s Straight Kentucky Bourbon (£14.99, 70cl)

In the single malt category, Aldi's submission beat the likes of M&S as well as premium brand Lochlea Distillery, which costs around £45 a bottle. 

Other gold winners included Johnnie Walker, Jameson and Glenfiddich. 

Aldi was also given three silver medals for its Highland Black Blended Scotch Whisky, Glen Marnoch Speyside Single Malt Whisky and Glen Marnoch Islay Single Malt Whisky. 

"This industry recognition helps to prove that great quality doesn't have to come with a luxury price tag and customers can be confident they're saving money with us, whilst getting the best whisky taste and experience," said Julie Ashfield, managing director of buying at Aldi UK. 

As we've previously discussed in the Money blog, holidaying Brits can avoid costly roaming charges by using their own travel eSim - and there's now another mainstream option to choose from courtesy of Uswitch.

UK travellers who want to use their phones abroad usually rely on their roaming plans and data passes or sign up for a local SIM at their destination, which can often require time-consuming ID checks and additional documentation.

That can be costly. 

Since Brexit, the UK no longer benefits from several EU-mandated rules, including a worldwide data roaming cap of £45.

Roaming costs, especially in countries outside the EU, can now be as high as £9 for every 1MB of roaming data - equivalent to streaming Netflix for 14.4 seconds.

The savings with eSims are potentially massive, as our cost of living specialist Megan Harwood-Baynes outlined here last month...

USwitch product

Using 10GB of data in Morocco on a UK Pay As You Go network with uncapped fees would cost on average of £56,166, compared to just £17 with a USwitch eSim.

eSims are available online and are entirely digital - meaning customers don't need to visit a phone network store or wait for a physical SIM card to arrive in the post.

Most new smartphones are already compatible with eSim technology, including every iPhone released from 2018 onwards and most Samsung devices released from 2020 onwards.

"eSIMs offer them a newfound freedom that's cheaper than traditional data roaming and with none of the hassle of finding a local SIM card provider when you arrive," said CEO and co-founder of (USwitch's partner in this project) eSIM Go Zacchary Couldrick.

Asda has gone from selling the cheapest petrol out of the supermarket chains to now costing the most, according to the latest fuel price figures.

RAC says Asda's big rivals, Morrisons, Sainsbury's and Tesco, all sold a litre of unleaded petrol for 2.1p less on average at the end of May.

Diesel was also coming out costlier at Asda, with the supermarket 2.5p per litre more expensive than the rest of its supermarket competition.

Drivers are being urged - by the RAC - to change their refuelling habits to find the best prices. 

What makes up the cost of a litre of petrol?

The price you pay for fuel at the pumps is governed by wholesale fuel prices, which are affected by several factors.

These include the global price of crude oil, which itself is governed by supply and demand and oil refinery production and capacity.

Distribution costs, fuel duty (currently 52.95p a litre in the UK), VAT (currently at 20%) and profit margins dictated by fuel retailers all come into account when working out why prices of fuel rise and fall.

Fuel duty rate and VAT largely stay the same, though oil prices and the strength of the pound to the US dollar (refined fuel is sold in dollars per metric tonne) can cause prices to be extremely volatile.

How have UK petrol prices changed in the 21st century

Unleaded fuel in 2000 had an average cost of 80.35p, while the average cost of diesel in the same year was 81.73p.

The lowest average cost for unleaded petrol in the last 24 years came in 2002, where the average was 73.5p. Diesel also had its cheapest average cost in this year at 75.6p.

Unsurprisingly, the most expensive average prices for fuel have fallen in recent years. In 2022, the average cost of unleaded fuel was 165.06p and the average cost of diesel was 178.13p.

P Diddy has sold off his stake in the media company he founded more than a decade ago. 

The rapper, whose real name is Sean Combs, released his shares of Revolt with the company saying the have been fully redeemed and retired. 

Revolt has not disclosed how much Combs was paid for his stake in the hip-hop news and entertainment company, which he founded in 2013.

It also announced a new ownership structure that will give its employees an equity stake in the company. 

The move comes after several lawsuits were filed against Combs , accusing him of sexual assault and rape. 

In November, he was sued by R&B singer Cassie, who said he subjected her to a years-long abusive relationship that included beatings and rape.

Combs settled the lawsuit with Cassie, whose full name is Casandra Ventura, a few days after it was filed.

Three in five secondary school teachers and nearly 80% of primary school teachers are spending their own money on supporting students, according to new research.

A report by the National Foundation for Educational Research, based on a survey of 1,282 teachers and senior leaders, found a quarter of teachers had already spent £100 of their own cash on their pupils or school this academic year.

Some 79% of primary school teachers and 62% of secondary school educators reported spending their own money at some point.

And nearly one in five primary and 17% of secondary teachers said they were spending money on meeting pastoral needs such as providing food or clothes.

Jude Hillary, the NFER's co-head of UK policy and practice, said the report "clearly highlights the high level of need among young people".

She said teachers were "going above and beyond to meet pupils' pastoral needs using their personal funds" and the "unrecognised" support was coming at a time when staff themselves are facing their own cost pressures.

Tesco has started re-stocking its packs of a dozen eggs online, after lengthy supply issues forced them to stop selling them.

The supermarket had already re-started selling them in stores, but online shoppers had to buy two packs of six eggs if they wanted 12, costing them very slightly more.

The shortages began in the autumn of 2022 as farmers left the industry or pulled back on production due to rising costs.

An outbreak of bird flu last year also impacted the sector.

Customers of Loveholidays have had their travel plans thrown into chaos after the parent company of two of its partners unexpectedly went bust. 

In a post on Facebook, the holiday firm said FTI Group, which owns YouTravel and Meeting Point, had filed for insolvency. 

As a result, the accommodation and transfer arrangements of some travellers have been affected. 

A "small number" of hotels have already started contacting Loveholiday travellers, asking them to pay for their rooms again.

In the comments of the post, one person said they had been "threatened to be removed by police" for refusing to pay again. 

"We are supposed to go home Thursday evening and worried our transfers and flights might be affected because we are refusing to pay again," Scott Love wrote. 

"Shambles this and has ruined our holiday for me, my partner and three children." 

Several other people commented, asking the provider to tell them if their trip had been impacted. 

Loveholidays said it was "working hard" to honour its customers bookings and "minimise disruption" to any holiday. 

It also said it was "absolutely committed" to covering costs and was working with affected customers, and the hotels involved, to make sure that happens.

Those who are on holiday and need support have been advised to contact the holiday support team by calling the number on their booking documents. 

"If you're travelling with us soon and are wondering if your holiday is affected: Please don't worry. There is nothing you need to do - our team is working hard to honour any impacted bookings with another partner," Loveholidays added. 

Sky News has contacted the company for comment. 

Chef Tom Brown has announced he is closing his high-end Hackney restaurant Cornerstone due to high costs of the tasting menu format and changing diner preferences.

The seafood-focused restaurant first opened in 2018 and earned a Michelin star in 2021.

In a statement, Brown said Cornerstone had been his "proudest moment" and his "home for the last six years", and added that his focus would now be on his nearby Pearly Queen site.

First Direct is ending its text message banking service after 25 years, according to a report.

An email seen by This Is Money said the service - which texts customers mini bank statements and alerts them to their balance dropping below a certain amount - will be stopped on 10 August.

First Direct told the outlet that customers could get "more detailed and up-to-date information" by logging onto its app or online banking.

Tesco has partnered with Virgin Red to offer Clubcard holders the chance to turn points into experiences.

Those signed up to the supermarket's loyalty scheme will get twice the points value when they turn points earned on their shopping into Virgin Points.

A bonus 5,000 points is available for anyone who signs up to auto-exchange all their Clubcard points to Virgin Points for the first time.

McDonald's has lost the EU trademark for "Big Mac" when it comes to chicken sandwiches after a long-running dispute with an Irish restaurant chain. 

The European Court of Justice upheld a complaint from Galway-based Supermac's against the US fast food giant. 

The trademark for the words "Big Mac" was initially registered with the EU International Property Office (EUIPO) in respect of meat, fish and chicken sandwiches as well as a range of restaurant services by McDonald's in 1996.

Generally, the rights of a holder to an EU trademark are revoked if it has not been put to genuine use within a continuous period of five years.

Supermac's argued McDonald's had insufficiently used the contested trademark in relation to "chicken sandwiches".

McDonald's and the EUIPO put forward examples of advertisements and display boards relating to "Grand Big Mac Chickens".

However, the court found the evidence was not sufficient to prove McDonald's had used the contested trademark enough in relation to poultry products.

Supermac's complaint was upheld and McDonald's protection of the phrase for such purposes was overturned. 

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