How to Pick a Luggage Lock With a Paper Clip

Many people misplace the tiny keys that open luggage locks. If you have done so, all is not lost. You don't have to tear or break your luggage to get to your stuff inside. Instead, you can simply pick the luggage lock with a paper clip.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Luggage lock
• Paper clip

1. Straighten the paper clip. You want it the metal to be in a straight line.

2. Insert the paper clip into the key hole of the luggage lock.

3. Turn the paper clip in the direction necessary to open the lock. Simply act as if the paper clip is the key.

4. Apply even, consistent pressure as you turn the paper clip.

5. Vary your placement of the paper clip if you have difficulty picking the lock. Remove the paper clip and re-insert it in a slightly different location. Repeat the same pressure and turning motion with this new placement.

Tips & Warnings

• As luggage locks are usually smaller, less sturdy locks, most can be picked. If your luggage lock is particularly sturdy, you can always take it to a locksmith to open it.

• Locksmiths use special picking tools to open more sophisticated locks.