How to Buy Luggage Locks as a Gift

While most luggage locks fit most kinds of luggage, it's worth investigating to see what kind of locks will work best with the luggage you're trying to protect.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Gift Ribbons
• Tissue Paper
• Backpack Lock
• Keys
• Luggage Locks
• Gift Cards
• Gift Bags
• Gift Bows
• Wrapping Paper
• Travel Gift Certificates
• Combination Padlock
• Tissue paper

1. Choose the locking mechanism on the luggage locks: some have keys; others are combination locks. If the gift's recipient is the absent-minded type and likely to lose keys, stick with a combination lock.

2. Decide what material you want the locks to be made of. Most luggage locks are made of brass, but some have steel shackles for extra strength.

3. Choose a size. Smaller brass locks are fine for locking briefcases or backpacks, but you may need a larger lock for bigger luggage items.

4. Decide on a color. Although most luggage locks have a brass body, they come in a variety of colors and styles. (After a plain brass finish, black is most popular.)

5. Be sure the locks are easy to use and that they open and close smoothly.

6. Purchase enough locks so that every piece of luggage will have a matching lock.

Tips & Warnings

• Another option for keeping luggage secure is a security strap that fits around a suitcase and locks underneath the handle. These are guaranteed to keep your suitcase from opening.
• Since locks are relatively inexpensive (under $10 apiece), you may wish to add other travel items and make an attractive gift basket.
• Luggage locks often come as a set, with two locks and up to four keys.
• If you're not sure the locks will fit the intended recipient's luggage, perhaps a gift certificate to a travel store would be a better gift. Or, at the very least, be sure the locks can be exchanged.
• Some travel experts say that you are more likely to have items stolen from your luggage than you are to have your luggage stolen. Locks are important accessories for any traveler.