Traveling with Lock Picks
A comprehensive guide to traveling with lock picking tools domestically and internationally. Learn the rules, prepare proper documentation, and travel with confidence.
Before You Travel
Always research the specific laws of your destination and any transit locations. Laws can change, and enforcement varies. This guide provides general guidance but does not replace jurisdiction-specific research.
Domestic Travel (Within Your Country)
Traveling by car generally offers the most flexibility and fewest complications when transporting lock picks.
Recommendations:
- Store picks in trunk or locked container, not easily accessible
- Keep with practice locks and hobby materials
- Have membership card and documentation accessible
- Research laws of all states/provinces you'll pass through
US State-by-State Awareness
When driving across state lines in the US, be aware that laws vary significantly:
Storage Best Practices:
- 1.Trunk Storage: Keep picks in your trunk, not the passenger compartment. This demonstrates they weren't readily accessible.
- 2.Locked Container: Use a dedicated case or lock box. Even a simple zip-up case shows intentional organization.
- 3.Hobby Context: Pack picks WITH practice locks (cutaway or clear locks are ideal). This immediately establishes educational purpose.
- 4.Documentation Nearby: Keep TOOOL card, competition registration, or training materials in the same bag—not buried in different luggage.
TSA permits lock picks in checked luggage. Pack with practice locks to demonstrate legitimate hobby use.
NOT recommended. May be confiscated, could cause delays, risk losing expensive tools.
Packing Recommendations:
- •Include practice locks alongside your picks
- •Add a note explaining hobby purpose (optional but helpful)
- •Print event invitation if attending competition
TSA Official Policy (United States)
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) explicitly addresses lock picks in their "What Can I Bring?" guidelines:
"Lock picks are prohibited in carry-on bags. Please pack them in checked luggage."
International Airline Considerations:
- •EU Airlines: Generally follow similar rules to TSA. Checked baggage only. EASA regulations apply.
- •UK Airlines: Post-Brexit, UK follows similar rules. Check specific airline policies for updates.
- •Asian Airlines: Policies vary more widely. Research specific carrier and destination country requirements.
- •Middle East: Some countries have stricter import rules. Verify before traveling.
If Your Bags Are Inspected:
- 1.Stay calm and polite. TSA agents see unusual items frequently. A calm explanation goes a long way.
- 2.Explain briefly: "These are lock picks for locksport—it's a hobby similar to puzzle-solving. I practice on my own locks at home."
- 3.Point to context: Show the practice locks packed alongside. Mention your TOOOL membership if applicable.
- 4.Don't over-explain: A brief explanation is better than a lengthy justification. Answer questions directly.
Train and bus travel generally offers the most relaxed environment for transporting lock picks, similar to car travel. However, international rail travel requires additional considerations.
United States:
- •Amtrak: No specific prohibition on lock picks. Treat like car travel—keep in your luggage with documentation. Some routes near borders (e.g., to Canada) may involve customs checks.
- •Greyhound/Bus: Similar to Amtrak. Keep picks in your bag, not on your person. Random security screenings are rare but possible on some routes.
- •Commuter Rail: Generally no security screening. Standard local laws apply. Keep picks concealed in your bag.
International Rail:
- •Eurostar (UK-EU): Security screening similar to airports. Pack picks in checked luggage or larger bags that go through X-ray. Have documentation ready for potential questions.
- •EU Trains (Schengen): Minimal security within Schengen zone. Research destination country laws before traveling.
- •Border Crossings: Trains crossing national borders may have customs/immigration checks. Be prepared to explain your hobby if picks are discovered.
Train/Bus Travel Tips
- • Keep picks in your bag, not in pockets
- • Have documentation accessible but not prominently displayed
- • Research if your route crosses state/national borders
- • For overnight trains, keep picks in secure luggage
International Travel
Research is Essential
International travel requires thorough research of both your destination country AND any countries you'll transit through. Customs regulations vary significantly.
Before You Go:
- 1.Research destination country laws thoroughly using our jurisdiction guides
- 2.Check transit country laws (for layovers)
- 3.Print documentation showing legal status
- 4.Bring membership card and event invitation if applicable
Generally Permissive
- • USA - State-dependent
- • Germany - Hobby-friendly
- • Netherlands - TOOOL home
- • France - Intent-based
- • Canada - Lawful excuse
Extra Caution Needed
- • UK - Section 25 applies
- • Australia - State-dependent
- • Japan - Strict regulations
- • Some Asian countries - Research first
Customs Declaration Guidance:
- Q:Should I declare lock picks at customs?
- A:Generally, lock picks don't require declaration as they're not restricted items in most countries. However, if asked directly about tools or unusual items, be honest. Proactive declaration is optional but can demonstrate good faith.
If Questioned at Border Control:
"These are lock picks for locksport—it's a competitive hobby where enthusiasts practice opening locks for skill development. I'm a member of [TOOOL/locksport organization]. I only practice on locks I own. I'm traveling to [destination] for [hobby/event/tourism]."
- • Show practice locks packed alongside picks
- • Offer to show membership card or event documentation
- • Remain calm, polite, and concise
- • Don't volunteer excessive information unless asked
Research Your Destination
Use our jurisdiction guides to research specific countries before traveling:
Browse all jurisdictions →Documentation Checklist
Having proper documentation can make all the difference if you're questioned about your lock picks. Prepare these items before traveling:
💡 Tip: Screenshot or print this checklist before your trip for easy reference.
Emergency Contacts
If you encounter issues while traveling with lock picks, these resources may be helpful:
TOOOL US
The Open Organisation Of Lockpickers - US chapter can provide guidance, local contacts, and community support.
TOOOL Netherlands (International HQ)
The founding TOOOL organization - helpful for European travel and international contacts.
toool.nl →r/lockpicking Community
Active Reddit community with 500k+ members. Great for quick questions and finding local enthusiasts who may have experience with specific jurisdictions.
reddit.com/r/lockpicking →If You Need Legal Help
If you're detained or arrested while traveling with lock picks:
- • Request an attorney immediately
- • Contact your country's embassy if abroad
- • Reach out to TOOOL community for referrals
- • Document everything that happens
Embassy Finder
If you're a US citizen abroad and need assistance, contact your nearest embassy or consulate.
US Embassy Finder →