Almost all modern travel accessories are equipped with combination locks to avoid theft of property and opening of luggage. Sometimes the lock is purchased separately and installed on the suitcase yourself. But in the daily bustle and constant flow of information, a person can completely forget the combination of numbers on the lock and be left alone with a locked suitcase. What to do if you forgot the code on your suitcase? In this case, the traveler must calm down and collect his thoughts in order to find the treasured combination in the depths of his memory. Perhaps this is his date of birth or others significant figures. If, after futile attempts, the numbers still do not surface, then you should use the tips given below.
How to open a suitcase if you forgot your password?
The procedure for opening the lock will depend on its type - hinged or built-in. The standard factory settings on all locks are the same and consist of three zeros or ones. If a traveler forgot the password on his suitcase, but did not bother to change it to a new one, then his carelessness this time will play into his hands. He can simply enter the treasured numbers and open the suitcase.
But what to do if you forget the password for the lock on a suitcase that has already been changed? You can try to find the desired combination. This process will take a lot of time, because there are about a thousand options. However, in this case, the lock will be open, but the suitcase will remain intact.
You can scroll the lock wheel until you hear a characteristic click. When it starts to move harder and a slight click is heard, this means that the desired number has been reached. You should repeat these manipulations with all the wheels and try to open the lock.
The built-in type of lock can be opened by looking into the gap between the suitcase and the lock. By shining a flashlight at yourself, you can see the movement of the wheels and the necessary grooves. When they come together, this will be the desired combination.
Technical lock picking
If a traveler has forgotten the password on his suitcase and doesn’t know how to open it, but all gentle methods have already been tried, then he will have to break the lock. Budget suitcases have simple locks that can be opened with a saw or screwdriver. On more expensive accessories, the lock will be more difficult to open. The hinged lock can be sawed using a hacksaw or grinder. The safety device arm is subjected to mechanical impact from the tool and the suitcase opens. In this case, of course, you will have to purchase a new constipation.
Of all the known ways to open a lock if you have forgotten the code, the best is to take your suitcase to a workshop. Experts have their own secrets that help return the locking device and suitcase to the owner safe and sound.
In a fit of anger or an attack of panic, when you forget the code on your suitcase, you should not immediately grab a chisel or grinder - you should first try gentle methods.
A forgotten password is not a lost key. If you concentrate, you can easily remember it.
When setting a password, you should use a combination of numbers that evokes certain associations (significant dates, birth dates of someone close).
You can write down the lock code in your organizer or on your phone.
In any case, if a tourist has forgotten the password to the lock on his suitcase, he should not despair, because, as we know, hopeless situations do not exist. A little ingenuity, a little patience and a little luck - and the coveted suitcase will definitely be opened.
What is a TSA Lock and how do I install one? A TSA lock (TSA lock) is a lock with a customs inspection function. Its main task is to ensure unhindered inspection of your luggage if necessary. TSA locks are required to be installed and configured for all travelers planning to travel to the United States.
The TSA Lock was created after the 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration - American Transportation Security Association) scans each passenger's luggage before loading it on board the aircraft. At some intervals, service employees open randomly selected luggage for a more detailed inspection. In this case, if the luggage is equipped with non-TSA approved locks, they will be forced to gain access.
If the baggage is equipped with a TSA lock, if inspection is necessary, customs authorities will open it with a universal master key without changing the code or damaging the suitcase. There are currently universal keys for TSA locks
TSA-approved locks have a universal master key that makes them easy to open without messing up the code or damaging your suitcase. Only the customs services of the USA, Canada, Great Britain and Israel have such a key. Each TSA-approved lock has an identifying mark - a red diamond - indicating that it can be opened with a master key.
Samsonite provides TSA padlocks and built-in locks (attached to the body of the suitcase) on its suitcases, and customs inspection locks are divided into key-operated and combination-operated locks.
If your suitcase has a TSA combination lock, you'll find our guide on how to change the code useful. So how do you change your TSA lock code?
How do I set up a TSA combination padlock?
Built-in TSA combination locks installed on suitcases of the Aeris and S"Cure, S"Cure DLX collections
Built-in TSA combination locks installed on suitcases from the Essensis, Colory, BLite Xtra collections
Built-in TSA combination locks installed on suitcases from the Inova, Spin Trunk, and Cosmolite collections
Built-in TSA cable locks for Duranxt Uprights collection cases
Built-in TSA combination locks installed on Cubelite, Cosmolite, Firelite, Skywheeler, Synconn collection suitcases
A suitcase is one of the main items of a traveler. Most likely, many people choose a suitcase with a combination lock, as it is the most reliable assistant. However, what if you forgot your suitcase code? How can I remember the secret combination or maybe there are other ways to get my property back? We will talk about all this in this article.
How to open a combination lock if you forgot the code on your briefcase or suitcase?
To begin with, it is important to remember that usually a code is installed on the suitcase, which consists of three zeros. To reset it, you need to hold down the button and then set the desired set of numbers. If this action does not help you, you can try the following methods:
- You can use the guessing method, since the code combination usually consists of 3 numbers. For this procedure you need several hours of free time. This method is the most optimal and effective if you cannot go to a workshop.
- The lock itself can help you find the right number. Look closely at the lock mechanism. You will find gaps through which you can see the inside of the lock. When you set the wrong number, one wheel is visible in the gap. When the number has been selected correctly, you will see grooves in it.
- Inexpensive models can help you find the code by ear. While rotating the lock wheels step by step, you need to stop if you hear a click. This sound means that the number is in the required place. However, you need to understand that expensive models have silent mechanisms and this method is not suitable for them.
If these methods did not help you open the suitcase and “remember the code”, then there is only one thing left - hacking.
For inexpensive products, you can use a regular nail file, as they have a weak level of reliability. However, it will not be easy to break into briefcases and suitcases from well-known companies; it is recommended to immediately seek help from a professional. We also recommend watching a video that will help you open the combination lock of your suitcase.
How to open a suitcase combination lock - video
Baggage is opened not only at domestic, but also at major foreign airports. Therefore, before traveling, you should carefully consider the issue of protecting your diplomat or suitcase. For example, buy a combination lock for your luggage or set a password on the built-in lock. You should write down the selected combination somewhere so you don’t forget. Because it will be very difficult to access the contents of the case without the code.
First, try the factory combination. Usually manufacturers display something simple: a series of zeros or ones. If this does not help, there are 2 options left to solve the problem: breaking in (with or without damage to the lock) and contacting specialists.
Important! If you need to pick up the set code on an open suitcase, then simply unlock the lining from the side of the lock, unscrew the lock with a screwdriver, open it and change the settings.
How to determine the code by ear?
Method for suitcases with locks, the operating principle of which was invented in the last century. In models with an upgraded security system, the click - the identification signal of the correctly set number - will not be heard. However, it is still worth trying the method. To do this, press the open button and, without releasing it, slowly rotate 1 of the wheels with numbers. If at the next turn an unusual sound is heard, then the set number is correct.
Try familiar combinations of numbers
The principle only works with people who know at least 1 or 2 digits from the code, as well as with those who use significant dates when setting passwords. Otherwise, it is better to refuse brute force: the lock will be blocked or broken before the correct combination is found.
If, contrary to the recommendations, you dare to select, then take a piece of paper with a pen and first write down all the valid combinations (go from smallest to largest, from 000 to 999). There will be a lot of them, perhaps several thousand (depending on the number of numbers in the code). Then check each option in order and cross off from the list those that failed to open the suitcase.
Undo the zipper
This method will definitely work, regardless of your hacking skills. True, it does not guarantee the safety of the zipper and lock. But if no other option helps, then simply pierce the clasp with the rod from the handle. It can be torn apart. For example, a blade.
Important! If you break 1-2 teeth of the zipper, it will come apart. Break the one that is closest to the top edge of the zipper (this end is opposite the base of the zipper). By doing this, you can do without replacing the fastener. You will just need to sew the fastener together 2-3 cloves below the place where the clove is broken.
Using a paper clip
You can try to push it under the latch and pry off the last one. The second method is only suitable for padlocks and key locks. They create a master key for them:
If it was not possible to open 1 paper clip, then insert a second one, and then rotate both of them and slowly insert and pull out until the master keys fit into the pins.
Important! There is a criminal penalty for breaking a lock with a homemade “key.” Therefore, do not try to open your case or diplomat in front of strangers. This is definitely not worth doing at the airport.
How can I unlock the code?
Algorithm of actions:
The second method is based on the same principle. You will also have to use a flashlight to illuminate the gap between the lock and the suitcase. However, specifically in this method, the groove serves as a guide. A correctly selected number will simply fit into the groove and fall into it. The wrong one will remain at the top.
How to deal with a padlock?
Nippers and tools with a similar operating principle will come to the rescue. If you don’t want to spoil the lock on your key, then take:
If you take the battery, the next step is to remove the metal film from it. This is easy to do with pliers. The already removed film is straightened (just beat it off with some tool), and then a master key blank is cut out of it according to the “T” template.
They work differently with a tin can. First, the top and bottom are removed, and the middle part is cut so that the end result is a metal sheet. From it, in the same way as in the previous version, a master key is made according to a template.
Once cut, take pliers and use them to slightly round the edges at the “T”. Then determine the free end of the lock arc - that is, the end that opens and is not soldered to the body. The master key will need to be placed in the space between the free end of the arc and the body. Once it's in, wrap the sides of the "T" around the arc of the lock (they should fit snugly), and then turn it 90 degrees. A quiet click will be heard and the opening mechanism will operate.
Most often, a new combination of numbers slips out of your head, rather than a constantly used one. Systematically changing your password is a sign of anxiety and a desire to protect your property with all your might. But the code is not the only one and not the most reliable way protect luggage from theft. In fact, attackers work on a tip. They choose a victim based on her appearance, cost of travel luggage and scan results. Then an ordinary pen comes into play - with its help, experienced thieves open any lock and zipper in a matter of moments.
However, the more barriers, the longer the criminal will have to pore over the hack. Based on this, we get the basic rules of behavior for a traveler:
- you need to buy suitcases in which after the main zipper there is a hidden additional one;
- it is necessary to use not only the lock on the suitcase, but also a specialized belt with a code (put on over the wrapped travel bag);
- on the road you should wear simple clothes and shoes, you should avoid expensive accessories and jewelry altogether;
- externally, the suitcase should look inexpensive (or pack it in an opaque case, which, among other things, will also act as a protective barrier).
When getting ready to travel, keep in mind that packing film will take a few extra moments from thieves, which will increase the chances of keeping your luggage. If the theft does take place, then the cut film will immediately report this, and the timely detection of missing items is not in the hands of the robbers. Therefore, it is not worth saving at this point.
Important! Be sure to take a photo of the already wrapped suitcase directly at the airport itself. This will be proof.
If you don’t have money for wrapping at the airport, then at least wrap your bag with cling film at home several times. Well don't forget to write down the codes(even better, take a photo of the combination on your phone and your spouse’s phone, so you won’t forget anything), and also do not put anything valuable in your checked suitcase - put such things in your hand luggage, which you can take with you on board.
These simple activities will reduce your level of anxiety, and then you will lose the desire to come up with new intricate codes every time (in fact, you don’t need to change them all the time, for safety it’s enough to use 2 combinations alternately) - as a result, you won’t have to break your head or your suitcase.
Have you forgotten the code for your suitcase? Do not panic! Most likely you will be able to open the suitcase yourself. First you need to understand exactly what problem you are facing:
Built-in lock with key
The oldest type of lock on a suitcase, which was produced in the USSR and Europe in the last century. The success of independent opening directly depends on the quality of the mechanism. You can try to open an inexpensive suitcase by prying the latch with a knife or nail file. High-quality locks (like those on Redmond suitcases) cannot be opened so easily and may require the help of a specialist. As a last resort, you can use brute force by breaking the lock using a thick screwdriver.
Built-in combination lock
The most common type of lock on a suitcase is a built-in mechanism with a code. The default combination is “000” or “0000” (very rare), which must be changed immediately. If the code has been forgotten, then there are several ways to open such a lock:
Rough hack
On budget models, the fasteners for the zipper sliders are made of plastic. You can simply cut them with a knife and release the zipper. In the future, you can install a new lock on the suitcase, purchased on Aliexpress.com for 200-300 rubles. It is very easy to change; under the lining it is attached with 2 screws to the body of the suitcase.
"Rip" the zipper
You need to take a regular ballpoint pen and pierce the zipper. The zipper will open to the sides and you will be able to access the contents of the suitcase (), but keep in mind that you will no longer be able to close it. If you used this method while on vacation, think about how you will transport your things back. You don’t have to fill your suitcase to the brim with things, tie it with rope, wrap it in film and return to your homeland in this form.
Complete search
If the lock's code consists of 3 digits, then you can go through all the combinations in less than an hour. And if you remember at least one number, you can do it in 10 minutes. All you need is perseverance and attentiveness so as not to miss the right combination.
Like "Bugbear"
The most difficult, but at the same time interesting way, in which you can try yourself as a security burglar. You will need a flashlight (you can turn on the flash on your phone) and a needle (paperclip, thin knife).
Carefully insert the needle into the slot next to the first wheel and begin to spin it. In the slot where the needle is located, a disk will become visible on which a notch should appear, sometimes there may be two of them - a large and a small one.
It is important to place the notch (or the largest of the notches) at the BOTTOM, i.e. If a large recess appears at the top in position “1”, the lock must be set to position “6”. In position “2”, you need to set “7”, etc. In other words, when you see a notch on the disk, add “5” to the current value and move the disk to this position. Do the same with the two remaining wheels. The method is discussed in more detail in the video:
Aurally
While pressing the button to open the suitcase, at the same time begin to turn the lock wheels (the first one is closest to the latches). By clicking or feeling, you can understand that the disk is in the desired position and you can move on to the next one. Unfortunately (or fortunately for the owner), only the oldest and cheapest suitcases, which have a very simple mechanism with direct feedback from the latch to the disks, can be opened in this way. Most likely this method will not work for you.
Padlocks on suitcases
Such locks are usually hung on the zipper pullers of a suitcase, in cases where there is no built-in security mechanism. They are also divided into coded and keyed. According to statistics, it is suitcases with padlocks that become the subject of increased interest for airport customs officers and potential thieves. In view of this, think about it: is it worth hanging it? Alternative and more effective way is the packaging of luggage with film: on special equipment at the airport or with regular food film from the supermarket. There is usually less desire to open a packaged suitcase, and the film also protects it from dirt.
Opening the padlock
A padlock can be opened in the same way as a built-in one, but keep in mind: there are no plastic elements in it. A lock with a code can be opened by brute force or by finding the recesses using a flashlight and a needle. The lock with the key can be turned with a small screwdriver, or the shackle can be cut with wire cutters.
In addition, a suitcase with a padlock can be opened and closed using a regular ballpoint pen. To do this, you just need to pierce the zipper, open the suitcase without touching the lock, and then simply move the sliders to close it.
Of course, you can open the built-in lock this way, but you won’t be able to close the suitcase.
How to change the code on a suitcase lock
The default password on the combination lock of a new suitcase is “000” or “0000”. It must be reset before traveling. This is done in 4 simple steps:
- Set the start code (000 or 0000).
- Find a recess on the lock with a button that you can press with a ballpoint pen. If such a button is missing, then recoding can be done by pressing the lock opening button.
- Keep the button pressed and change the code to a new one. The main recommendation is not to set 3 digits of the same value. Potential attackers check such options first.
- Release the button.
A combination padlock can be configured in a similar way, the main thing is to determine whether the lock has a separate button or whether you just need to hold the latch open and change the position of the number dials.
