A TSA lock is a type of lock that can be opened by security officers of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States without damaging the lock. These locks are commonly used on luggage and travel bags to secure belongings during air travel. TSA locks have a special feature that allows TSA agents to unlock and inspect the contents of luggage if necessary, typically using a universal key. This is important because if security officers need to inspect a bag and it's locked with a traditional lock that they can't open, they may have to break the lock, which can damage the luggage. By using a TSA-approved lock, travelers can help prevent damage to their luggage while still maintaining security.