Why do people put straps on their luggage?

Luggage straps are used to keep one’s suitcase closed. Some people do this to make sure a bag stays zipped and closed while traveling. Others use luggage straps to avoid their bags being opened and avoid items being stolen. Luggage straps can also be used to keep multiple bags together.

Can you put straps on your luggage?

Typically train, car, and bus travel will allow all types of luggage straps. Luggage straps are also allowed when traveling by plane, boat, or any other way method that includes security checks. However, only straps that can be opened by security personnel are permitted. Check security regulations pre-travel to be sure.

Are luggage straps worth it?

Luggage straps are an essential tool for some people, however, they’re not always necessary. If you rarely travel with a checked bag, for example, you likely won’t need a luggage strap. This is also the case if you don’t tend to overpack or if you’re sure about your suitcase’s security.

Are luggage straps safe?

Since luggage straps are intended to add security to your bags, they are generally considered safe. As long as they’re properly applied and secured, they shouldn’t cause any harm to your bag.

The 10 Best Luggage Straps for Suitcases and Bags [2023]

Whether it’s for fun or business, traveling has never been easier than it is today. However, a huge concern travelers have is making sure their belongings are safe and sound while they’re on their journey.

Luggage straps can give you some peace of mind. They help keep your suitcase closed and secure, so you don’t have to worry about losing anything.

Table of contents

Things To Consider With Luggage Straps
The 10 Best Luggage Straps for Suitcases and Bags
Final Thoughts

Table of Contents

Things To Consider With Luggage Straps
The 10 Best Luggage Straps for Suitcases and Bags
Final Thoughts

Things To Consider With Luggage Straps

A good luggage strap should be able to reliably keep your suitcase closed without worrying about it popping open mid-travel. However, before you just pick the first one you find, there are some things to consider.

Length

The first thing you need to consider when looking at luggage straps to buy is their length. If you buy a strap that’s too long for your suitcase, it won’t effectively hold your bag closed. A strap that’s too short, instead, will essentially be useless.

Most straps are adjustable to some extent, which means they can fit a variety of luggage sizes or shapes.

Bottom Line: You should look at the minimum and maximum lengths of a strap before you purchase it.

Material

You must also weigh the pros and cons of different materials before purchasing a luggage strap.

Straps can come in a variety of materials, each of which has its merits.

Elastic can be stretched around different-sized bags and will snap tighter to keep them secure. However, elastic can be overstretched.
Nylon and polyester are strong. However, they can start to fray.

You’ll also want to look at the material of a strap’s buckle or fastener. Poly-plastic blends are durable and will withstand being jostled and thrown around. Thinner materials may cost less, but they’re less durable.

Security

Since luggage straps are meant to secure your belongings, the type of security features a strap has should be considered.

There are a few types of ways straps can be secured:

Sliding Fastener: This is the simplest but also the least secure option. The strap will loop through the fastener, holding the fabric in place.
Buckle: This is a mid-level security option. Each end of the strap will have part of the buckle that will snap together once placed around your bag.
Code: Some straps will come with a security code option, similar to a padlock, and won’t open unless the right code is entered.

Type

Luggage straps can also differ by their “type,” or rather, the way they’re meant to be placed on your bag.

Luggage straps can be:

X-straps: These straps are meant to keep your bag doubly secured. Typically you’ll have 2 straps — 1 to loop around horizontally and 1 to loop around vertically.
Regular Straps: These straps are simple and just wrap once around your bag.
Connecting Straps: These straps are meant to keep multiple bags together and strapped closed.

Design

The design is the last thing you should consider when buying a luggage strap. This might seem superficial, but it can make the difference between a useful strap and an essential one. If you have a suitcase that’s non-descript, for example, opting for a neon-colored or patterned luggage strap can help you spot it easily.

However, you might prefer a neutral-colored strap if you want your luggage to blend in or go unnoticed. Some luggage straps can even be customized to also act as luggage tags in case your bag gets lost.

Hot Tip: Check out our guide to the best checked luggage bags for any traveler!

The 10 Best Luggage Straps for Suitcases and Bags

There are multiple options for luggage straps, and it can be hard to tell the differences between them. To help, here is our list of the best ones on the market.

1. A Set for All the Family

BEST OVERALL: Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps

You'll be able to keep any suitcase closed with this pack of luggage straps. You get 4, so you can double them up or use them on multiple travel bags.

Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps

If you’re looking for luggage straps that will suit any type of trip you need to pack for, this pack of 4 by Untethered is a good option to start with.

Because you get 4 straps in 1 set, you’re able to adjust the placement however you prefer. You can use 2 straps per bag for extra security, or you can use 1 if that’s all you need.

The straps are also designed to withstand 400 pounds of tension, making them more than adequate for any travel.

Due to their bright color, these straps also double as an easy eye-catcher. You can spot your suitcase as soon as it hits the luggage carousel or keep an eye on it at a distance without worry.

What We Like:

6 feet long

What We Don’t Like:

Buckle can come undone if too tight

2. A Luggage Strap From a Premium Brand

DISCOUNT: 22%

UPGRADE PICK: Samsonite Luggage Strap

This luggage strap has a combination to help ensure your belongings are safe from anyone who might want to go through your bag. The strap is thick, and it won't fray.

Samsonite Luggage Strap

If your primary reason for getting a luggage strap is to keep your suitcase from being upended and rifled through, Samsonite has an option for you.

This luggage strap comes with a combination lock that you can customize to ensure only you’re able to open your bag. The buckle is also super durable. You don’t have to worry about it chipping or snapping while your bag is tossed around.

While some combination straps aren’t allowed on certain types of transportation due to security concerns, this option is TSA-approved. That means you can use it for all types of air travel. It’s also a bright color, so you can spot your bag from a distance and be on your way.

What We Like:

Customizable lock combination

What We Don’t Like:

No instructions for setting combination

3. Budget-friendly but High-quality Luggage Strap

SwissGear Adjustable Luggage Strap

This luggage strap is extremely versatile. You can use it on small pieces of hand luggage, but you can also use it on larger bags as well without straining it.

SwissGear Adjustable Luggage Strap

People looking for an affordable luggage strap to add a little extra peace of mind to their travels should consider this option from SwissGear.

Equipped with a snap-lock buckle, it’s an easy-to-use strap that you can adjust to fit most bags that fall within the standard luggage size range.

Since the strap is made of webbed polypropylene, you don’t have to worry about it ripping or fraying during your trips. You can use this strap every day and it will still hold up.

The strap itself is lightweight, only coming in at 3.5 ounces, so it won’t add extra weight to your bags. That means it’s even a good option for travelers who tend to overpack.

What We Like:

Adjustable length

What We Don’t Like:

Flimsy buckle

4. Adjustable Packing Straps to Suit Your Needs

MAGARROW 78 x 1 Strap Buckle Packing Straps Adjustable 1-Inch Belt

These 4 packing straps can be adjusted to fit around virtually any suitcase. They won't fray, and the plastic parts won't chip or break open even if you're rough with them.

MAGARROW 78″ x 1″ Strap Buckle Packing Straps

If you don’t want to deal with having multiple luggage straps in different sizes to suit your different suitcases, MAGARROW’s got you covered.

This set comes with 4 separate adjustable straps, which guarantees you can use them on nearly any type of luggage.

The plastic buckles have been designed to be sturdy enough to stand up to most wear and tear they can suffer while traveling. You also don’t have to worry about the buckle coming undone during your trip.

Once you have the strap secured, you can lock it in place, so it stays nice and snug and won’t come loose. Since the strap is also 1.25 millimeters thick, you also don’t have to worry about it tearing easily either.

What We Like:

Various color options

What We Don’t Like:

Not easy to spot

5. A Value Pack To Get More Straps for Your Money

BlueCosto Luggage Straps for Suitcases Travel Belt Suitcase Stra

These luggage straps are very streamlined and don't have any frills, but that makes them such a great option. Since they're simple, you can put them on without thinking about it.

BlueCosto 4 Pack Luggage Straps

While luggage straps are typically pretty affordable pieces of travel equipment, their cost can add up if you buy multiples. BlueCosto eliminates that extra cost by providing a value pack of 4 straps.

This pack doesn’t just come with 4 straps of questionable quality, however. Instead, you get a pack of high-quality, durable straps that have the potential to last you for years.

In fact, they are made with poly and plastic materials that are tested for their durability to ensure they don’t snap or break during even rough travels.

You can also adjust the strap belts to fit most suitcases you’d want to keep secure, especially checked bags. You can even use the straps to keep multiple bags together.

What We Like:

Good quality-cost value

What We Don’t Like:

Straps don’t vary in length

6. Elastic Luggage Straps for an Easy Fit

Luggage Strap, High Elastic Suitcase Adjustable Belt Bag Bungees with Buckles

This luggage strap might look small, but it's highly elastic, so you can loop it around most suitcases. You can also change the way you put it on to suit your needs.

Luggage Strap, High Elastic Suitcase Adjustable Belt Bag Bungees

Zinz knows that most travelers worry about the security of their luggage and, more importantly, their personal items. That’s why it created this elastic suitcase bungee.

Rather than deal with multiple luggage straps, you can double secure your bag with just one piece of lightweight equipment.

Since it’s made with elastic nylon, you can easily stretch the belt to fit around most suitcases. However, you can also adjust its size to fit more snugly around smaller or larger bags.

When not in use, the belt folds up to be compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand and can be tucked away without taking up much room or getting tangled. It’s also easily cleaned with just a little water if needed.

What We Like:

1-year warranty

What We Don’t Like:

A little fiddly

7. A Durable Luggage Belt To Last You Years

Samsonite Luggage Strap

There's no lock or combination on this strap, but its buckle is still thick and durable. You can throw your bag around without worrying about breaking any part of it.

Samsonite Luggage Strap

Samsonite is no stranger to making heavy-duty luggage straps. However, this particular model is for anyone who wants a strap belt that will last for years of adventures.

The buckle is strong enough to withstand rugged and rough travels without chipping or breaking. It also won’t snap open unexpectedly, so your belongings will stay safe. The belt itself is made of polypropylene that’s been tested to ensure it won’t tear or snag on anything.

There’s no lock on the belt, making it suitable for most security checks as agents won’t have to break the lock or fidget with a combination. However, the buckle is also durable enough to deter any unwarranted rifling through your things.

What We Like:

Easy-to-spot design

What We Don’t Like:

Only 1 strap

8. A Stylish Luggage Strap You’ll Be Able To Spot

Travelon Luggage Strap

This luggage strap model has a design on it to help you see it while it's circling the luggage pick-up area. It will also keep your bag closed securely during your trip.

Travelon Luggage Strap

If you want a luggage strap that will also double as a way you can easily pick out which bag is yours on a luggage carousel or in a crowd, you should consider this Travelon option.

While many luggage straps come in different colors, this strap has a unique floral pattern that will set your bag apart from the others.

Since by the time you get to baggage claim, you’re probably ready to be on your way, shaving off time trying to find your luggage can be priceless.

However, it’s also a worthy luggage strap. It’s adjustable, so it will fit most suitcases. It’s also got a thick buckle that won’t easily break even if handled roughly.

What We Like:

Eye-catching pattern

What We Don’t Like:

So pretty they are known to go missing

9. An Adjustable Strap Option That’s Easy To Recognize

Adjustable Travel Luggage Strap Suitcase Belt Travel Bag Accessories

There are 2 adjustable straps in this kit. You can use them on 2 separate bags or double them up to create a T-strap on a single piece of luggage.

Adjustable Travel Luggage Strap

Some people prefer solid colors or neutral tones in their luggage. If you’re not one of those people, this is the luggage strap for you.

With its distinct honeycomb pattern, it’s a colorful strap belt that will liven up any suitcase. It’s also easy to spot at a distance, so you can always keep an eye on your bag, even in a crowd.

The strap measures 6.4 feet in length, but it’s adjustable, so you can fit it around most suitcases without any trouble.

Since it’s also nearly 2 inches wide, it covers enough space on your bag to effectively hold it closed without ripping or straining at the seams. The set also comes with a warranty if anything happens to 1 or both straps.

What We Like:

Set of 2

What We Don’t Like:

Prone to fraying

10. Luggage Straps That Will Speed Through Security

DISCOUNT: 10%

Travelkin Cross Luggage Straps TSA Approved

These straps are TSA-approved, so you can breeze through security. Your belongings will be kept safe, and you'll be able to avoid an extra travel headache no matter where you go.

Travelkin Cross Luggage Straps

If you want a combination lock but you’re worried about the extra time it could add to going through security, this option from Travelkin is perfect for you.

The TSA lock on this strap will guarantee you can glide through security screenings without fumbling for a lock or damaging the strap.

TSA agents will have access to a key that will easily unlock the strap, while anyone else would be out of luck without knowing the combination.

The lock is also thick and durable, so it won’t be damaged while in transit. Nor will the strap rip or tear, thanks to its heavy-duty material. Since the belt is also adjustable, you can fit it around most suitcases without any trouble.

What We Like:

Easy-to-see pattern

What We Don’t Like:

Can slip on luggage

Final Thoughts

A good luggage strap should help you make sure your belongings are safe while you travel. It should keep your luggage closed, no matter how jostled your bag might get in transit.

However, straps can be fastened in different ways and come in different materials that allow different types of protection, so you can be stress-free. We hope that our list has helped you figure out what sort of luggage strap best suits your needs for your next trip.