How to open a suitcase lock if you forgot the unlock code?

2023-04-20 16:02:38

Unlock the suitcase – Source: spm

Credit card, phone number, SIM card, applications, Wifi… And the list of codes to remember is endless. It’s already quite a feat to remember the most important ones, so don’t feel guilty for having forgotten the combination of your suitcase! It’s completely human. Especially if you haven’t written it down anywhere and only use it once a year for summer vacation. That’s very nice, you would say, but right now, it’s only small consolation. Because, at some point, you have to open this carefully packed suitcase. But yes, rest assured, you will find a solution to unlock it one way or another. Precisely, if you experience this kind of unfortunate setback, here are the steps to follow closely.

Step 1: keep calm

Getting angry or cursing the whole earth will surely not help you open that famous suitcase any faster. If you entered a random code and it doesn’t work, that’s normal. Do not panic unnecessarily and make up your mind: yes, you have forgotten this code. It happens, it’s not the end of the world. Keep your cool, breathe deeply and don’t waste time multiplying combinations blindly hoping for a miracle. Ah yes, first of all, observe this baggage carefully. If so, it’s not even yours. Who knows, maybe you accidentally confused it with another traveller’s suitcase?

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Step 2: Check factory settings

No, you’re sure, it’s your suitcase. Alright. Well, if it’s still relatively new, hopefully the lock may not have been adjusted at all. The code would therefore be the original one (according to the factory settings) and it is rather easy to guess. In general, many manufacturers deliver cases with the code 000. If you have the slightest doubt that you have not fixed your own series of numbers, quickly test this one!

Step 3: think logically

Too bad it doesn’t work. Okay, so chances are you had indeed defined your own code. So think about it: in your opinion, which type of combination seems the most plausible to you? Logically, you didn’t look too far, you probably thought of a date of birth, wedding or any date important to you. It can also be part of your phone number, a common password or even your lucky numbers. Does this refresh your memory? If so, many many travelers keep it simple and just use the popular code 123. Maybe you’ve thought of that too?

Step 4: Try these number combinations

No, nothing helps, still no opening! Let’s move on. In absolute terms, the combination of numbers on suitcases usually consists of only three digits. This is an advantage, because the more digits there are, the more coding variants there are. There, in this case, by removing the option from code 000, there remain exactly 999 possible combinations. We are absolutely not trying to upset you, but indeed, if you have a little time, you can always give it a shot. Preferably not at random, make yourself comfortable, take a notepad and therefore scroll through the codes one after the other. Start by counting: 001, 002, 003 and so on, in the second round then 010, 011, 012 until you find the right combination.

Noticed : simpler still, it is also possible to try to open the lock by groping step by step. Turn each wheel individually and try to listen for a slight creak: this is a sign that you have found the right position.

Step 5: Obtain the TSA key

No, you don’t seem at all impressed by the previous idea, and we understand you. You’re here on vacation, it’s not about torturing you or making you work either. The good news is that most suitcases are equipped with so-called “TSA” locks. In addition to the combination lock, the luggage also has a real lock. It is used in particular during a check at the airport to be able to search the suitcase without damaging it. If this is the case, you can therefore contact the security officers at airports or customs who normally have a universal key. Only problem: you must necessarily prove that this suitcase really belongs to you. Because any criminal could easily use this method!

Good to know : Nowadays, most locksmiths and luggage dealers also carry a TSA key. If that can make things easier for you! Alternatively, if you have the ability, you can make the right key yourself using a 3D printer and templates found on the internet.

Step 6: Use the strong way

Well, if all these solutions do not work, there is still the last option to try. If you are too pressed for time or you do not have the opportunity to call on a professional, all you have to do is use force to open your luggage. Start with the zipper (hope there is one!). Use a pointed object, such as a pen, and slide it between the teeth of the zipper. Next, the tool of choice is a screwdriver that will help you open the case lock. On the way back, you can use tape instead or have the suitcase packed at the airport altogether.

Important : you should only force open the suitcase in the presence of other people who can confirm that it really belongs to you.

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A locked suitcase – Source: spm

Looking to reset your suitcase lock code? Perhaps to better retain it and avoid the slightest disappointment? It’s a good initiative, but first of all you have to take into account some important aspects. As said, on delivery the digital code is always set to 000. But if you want to change the combination, you must necessarily know the current code. If you have forgotten it, the only choice left to you is to try all the combinations from 000 to 999. Proceed number by number, i.e. from 1 (001) to 999. It is not as long as you can imagine. Depending on the lock, you will need 15 to 30 minutes to play all the combinations. On the other hand, tell yourself that the TSA key will be of no use to you in this specific case. One thing to remember: only change the code by one digit, i.e. turn a 0 into a 1. You should only set the final code once you have determined the correct method. And above all, for pure safety, remember to remember the new combination or write it down somewhere discreetly!