Keeping your tent secure is a growing area of concern for many campers, especially with all the technology and gear that families bring with them on camping trips. If you’re looking to secure your tent, your best bet is a tent lock.
There are several ways to lock your tent, and knowing when and how to properly secure your tent with a tent lock can make a huge difference in how safe your tent actually is.
What Is A Tent Lock?
A tent lock can be as simple as a zip tie or shoestring, or heavy-duty like a padlock with a key or combination – there are many ways to lock your tent, and what methods are the best depend on both your preference and whether you are locking your tent from the inside or the outside.
Do Tents Have Locks?
No, most tents do not have locks included with them as most campers do not use them, and instead are sold separately.
A tent lock is an affordable and easy way to increase the security of your tent and campsite.
We’ll cover how to lock your tent and different tent security lock options further in this guide.
Should You Lock Your Tent?
We get asked a lot: “Do you lock your tent at night?”.
Personally, I do not lock my tent at night, but that doesn’t mean you can’t or shouldn’t. It’s largely up to personal preference.
Same goes for locking your tent when you’re away during the day: ultimately, a tent lock is not going to prevent theft or intrusion, but it does make it more difficult, and most thieves or malicious people out there are looking for an easy target.
Anything that makes you and your tent less of an easy target reduces your chances of intrusion or theft, so a tent zip lock is an easy way to help yourself.
Locking Your Tent: How To Lock A Tent From The Outside
If you’ll be away from camp during the day while fishing, hiking, or doing some general exploring, you’ll need a tent lock that works from the outside so you can keep your gear and valuables safe.
The first thing to keep in mind is to keep your tent lock hidden out of plain view.
Most campers don’t lock their tent, so having a tent security lock could draw unwanted attention to the fact that you are trying to secure your stuff in the first place.
To lock your tent from the outside, you’ll want to use a tent lock like a combination lock or a padlock with a key that can secure the zipper ends together. A luggage travel lock is also a great substitute for a tent lock.
How To Lock A Tent From Inside
If you’re more concerned about the safety of your family while you sleep, knowing how to lock a tent from inside will be valuable.
Follow these steps to lock your tent from the inside:
- Close the tent door by zipping the inside door zipper fully closed.
- Insert the tent lock cable (or a zip tie, shoestring, or other small rope) through the eyelets in each zipper.
- Secure the tent lock cable (or tie a knot in the rope or shoe string if using those materials).
- Be sure not to tie a complicated knot, as you will want to be able to easily undo it for bathroom breaks at night or for quick escape in case of an emergency in your tent.
How To Lock A Tent At Night
Presumably you’ll be locking your tent from the inside if you are concerned about how to lock a tent at night, so you can follow the same steps we outlined above:
- Close the tent door, making sure to fully close the door and zip it shut.
- Insert the zip tie, small rope, or tent security lock through the eyelets in each zipper.
- Tie a knot in the rope or secure the tent lock cable.
- Use a simple knot so you can easily undo it in case of a tent emergency or so that you can get out easily for bathroom breaks at night.
The 6 Best Tent Locks
Forge 2-Pack Combination Tent Lock
- MOST DURABLE TSA RECOGNIZED AND ACCEPTED TSA LOCK. Forge TSA appproved locks are designed from the ground up to be the toughest luggage locks around. Our special alloy lock bodies, tightly braided and sheathed steel cables, hardened steel cable lock ends as well as patented internal mechanisms can take such a pounding that we back our product up with an unconditional lifetime guarantee. If you can find a way to break these locks, we’ll gladly refund or replace them.
- EASY TO SET 3 DIGIT COMBINATION. Our combination locks have an easy to use lever mechanism to set the combination. Simply set the locks to the factory default combination of 0-0-0, flip the lever with a pen and enter your personal combination. The combination can also be changed as many times as you like. Never worry about accidently changing your lock to the wrong combination or your combination being changed during rough handling.
- SECURITY WITH THE FLEXIBILITY OF A CABLE LOCK. Cable locks can handle situations that normal lock shackles simply can’t. Our lock’s cable is thin enough to thread through all standard sized zippers and hard case lock holes but strong enough to protect your belongings. At a length of 4 in from end to end and an internal looped length of 1.5 in when locked, our cable offers the flexibility to secure nearly any suitcase, hard case, gun case, etc. on the market.
- ALWAYS RELOCKED, ALWAYS PROTECTED. Most TSA locks on the market do not need to be re-locked by a TSA agent after their inspection is completed. With our TSA luggage lock, the agent has to re-lock your suitcase to remove their key. With Forge you never worry about your suitcase locks being left open again.
- MANY USES WITH LOTS OF VARIETY. Forge travel locks can be used on a wide variety of items besides suitcases or luggage. These locks can be used on a briefcase, gym locker, purse, backpack or laptop bag.
These tent zipper locks can be used for both tent security and luggage, making them able to perform double duty.
Since they come in a two-pack, you can use one to lock your tent and the other to secure your stuff inside a duffel bag or backpack inside the tent, furthering your protection.
These are the most durable and TSA-approved locks available, and have an easy to set 3-digit combination, making them good for kids since three numbers are easy to memorize.
The flexible cable locks make them easy to lock your tent through the small holes in the zippers.
Forge Key Tent Lock 4-Pack
- Durable TSA approved luggage locks: Forge tsa locks are engineered to be the most rugged luggage locks available. Crafted with special alloy lock bodies, premium steel shackles, and patented internal mechanisms, these key locks can withstand significant impact.
- The most secure TSA locks on the market: Forge luggage locks utilize an advanced dimple key and hardened steel tumbler system. Unlike most luggage locks that use old-style single-bitted keys, which are vulnerable to lock picking and freezing up at the worst possible times, Forge key locks provide peace of mind with their tamper-proof design and perfect reliability.
- Keyed alike to lighten your keyring: Every tsa lock in the package is compatible with every key included. You only need to keep a single key on your person; the other keys included can be stored in a safe place or given to a family member or friend. Additionally, this key can't be duplicated in stores, so purchasing a larger pack ensures matching keys and locks for convenience and enhanced security, as each key is uniquely designed and cannot be replicated elsewhere.
- Always locked, always protected. Trust Forge TSA-approved locks to safeguard your luggage from unauthorized access, whether it's unwanted persons or TSA agents at the airport. Forge key travel locks feature the reliable TSA006 key system for high security, and their compact size makes them ideal for lightweight travel. Each lock measures 1'' by 1'' and is 0.7'' thick, weighing just 1.5 oz.
- Many uses with lots of variety. Forge travel key locks are versatile and can be used on a wide range of items beyond just suitcases or luggage. These luggage locks are suitable for securing a briefcase, gym locker, purse, backpack, laptop bag, and more. Best part, no combination to remember.
If you prefer a key method versus a combination tent security lock, then this version is for you.
You get four total locks and the best part is that the same key works on all four, so you can give one to each person in your family.
You can also lock up to four different items, whether that’s locking multiple tents or bags and you don’t have to worry about remembering which key goes to which lock. Same goes for if you lose a key, so this is super convenient.
Master Lock 1548DCM Ring-Style Combination Tent Lock
- Suggested uses, luggage, backpacks, bags, briefcases, computer bags, for indoor use only
- Contemporary reflective colors for a unique and fun look
- 3 dial set your own combination locking mechanism for keyless convenience
- 3-5/16 in. (94 mm) rugged metal body for durability
- Includes one set your own combination backpack lock
This affordable and compact tent lock is only 3.5” long and has an easy-set 3-digit combination to secure your tent, bag, luggage, or whatever else you need.
Throw it in your glove box and you’ll always be ready!
Samsonite Travel Sentry 2-Pack Brass Tent Lock Kit
- Durable brass construction to withstand the rigors of baggage handling.Note: Measure your door's backset, cross bore and thickness to ensure you find the right fit.
- Each lock ships with 2 keys (4 per set)
- Accepted and Recognized by the TSA
- 0.8x2.4x8.6
These Samsonite tent locks feature durable brass construction and has two keys per lock so you can distribute them among your family members while camping.
The small hooks make them easy to fit in the zipper holes on your tent, and they’re super affordable.
Lewis N. Clark Steel Cable Combination Tent Lock & Luggage Lock
- TSA LUGGAGE LOCK: Keep your luggage locked and safe during travel through the airport. TSA screeners can inspect and relock luggage with this specially engineered combination lock
- DURABLE: The toughest TSA travel lock you can buy to keep your suitcase protected. 70 mm flexible steel cable won’t break on conveyor belts or during luggage loading/unloading
- SET YOUR OWN: Set and reset your own 3-digit combination in less than 30 seconds, and reset it as many times as you’d like. Detailed instructions are included
- COMFORT GRIP: Non-slip thermoplastic material provides a comfortable grip as you travel through the airport or to your hotel
- VERSATILE: This combo lock keeps your suitcase and luggage safe and it’s TSA friendly. It’s also perfect for a gym lock, briefcase, laptop bag, purse, backpack, and more. Available in Blue, Orange, Red, and Black
This tent lock comes in four colors so you can choose one that best blends in with the color of your tent, which is a nice advantage.
This tent lock is the toughest TSA-approved lock you can buy and features a 70mm flexible steel cable that won’t break.
You can set and reset your own 3-digit combo in under 30 seconds.
Lewis N. Clark Thin Cable Combo Tent Lock
- SAFETY FIRST: Keeps luggage, bikes, guns, work equipment, briefcase, purse, doors, gates, and many other items safe. Group items together and protect them, don’t fumble with keys.Note: Measure your door's backset, cross bore and thickness to ensure you find the right fit.
- TRAVEL ACCESSORY: Whether you are taking public transportation, flying across country, touring the city or on your daily commute, keep your prized possessions safe and secure
- SUPERIOR DESIGN: Durable rugged construction with thermoplastic rubber and ABS housing, means its build to last. Our flexible steel cable provides ease of use while protecting your belongings
- EASY TO RESET COMBO: Reset your combination easily anytime with our three-dial code. The re-programable lock makes it simple to change your combo and protect your valuables
- LEWIS N. CLARK has been a leader in the Travel & Outdoor Gear for over 30 years, helping you to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. We are passionate about travel and exploring the wonder of the world around us, and our designs focus on making any trip more organized, secure, comfortable and convenient
This tent lock is great for tents with multiple zippers or very small zipper holes thanks to the longer and thinner cable that’s available compared to most tent locks on the market.
It’s built to last with durable materials and the combo is easy to quickly reset, making it a great tent lock choice.
Tent Lock Alternatives: 7 Ways To Secure Your Tent & Gear While Camping
Using a tent lock is a quick and easy way to deter theft and increase your campsite’s security.
However, a tent lock will not fully prevent a tent break-in from happening.
Take the following additional steps to increase your campsite and tent security while camping:
Make It Look Like Someone’s There
This concept works the same way with preventing theft in your home: the more “lived in” your place looks, the less anyone is going to try to steal from you for fear of getting caught.
It’s okay to have a camp chair or two by the fire and some supplies out on the picnic table so that it looks like someone might be back at any moment.
This will help keep your campsite more secure.
Store Your Valuables In Your Car
A car is a much better place to keep your important things than your tent.
Cars aren’t nearly as easy to break into as tents and will draw much more attention.
Put your valuables in the glove box or trunk, or cover them up with something and keep them out of plain sight.
Even putting them on the floorboard of the backseat and covering them with a towel or blanket will help secure your items while camping.
Bring The Most Valuable Items With You
Nothing will keep your stuff protected while camping more than keeping it on your person.
Store big items in a day pack or backpack, and bring along a hiking fanny pack for smaller items.
Bring Only What You Need
Space is at a premium when camping, so bring only what you need.
This applies to valuables, too. Just because you can bring along a tablet or laptop doesn’t mean you necessarily should.
Bringing unnecessary items along means you have to worry about securing them while camping, plus you have to fuss with charging them and remembering to pack them up once your camping trip is over.
Same goes for jewelry and small items: it’s best to minimize what you bring and narrow it down to the essentials.
Camp In A Campground
A proper campground is going to have more campers and higher visibility, making it safer to keep your things in your tent (whether you’re using a tent lock or not).
More people means lower chances of someone taking the risk of getting caught trying to steal from your tent.
Choose campsites that have extra levels of security like gated access or hired security personnel when possible.
Choose A Highly-Visible Campsite
Although it can be exciting to find that campsite far off the beaten path and away from others, doing so makes your campsite less secure.
The exception here is campsites that are either very hard to find in the first place or sites with only one way in and out – these also offer enhanced camping security.
Camp In A Large Group
The more people you camp with, the safer you’ll be.
A larger group means the higher chances that someone will be at the campsite at all times to keep an eye on everything, and usually thieves or other ill-intentioned folks are not looking to have a confrontation with anyone.
Tent Locks And How To Lock A Tent: Wrapping Things Up
We hope you learned more about tent lock choices and when it makes sense to use a tent security lock.
Ultimately, locking your tent is a personal choice but is so easy and inexpensive that it is worth it if you are concerned about the security of your gear and family while camping.
While you’re here, check out our other helpful camping guides:
- Tents that fit a queen air mattress
- How to make a DIY camping bed
- The best insulated tents for winter camping
- How much does an air mattress weigh?
- Our guide to air mattress weight limits
- Our top picks for the best e-port tents
- Do camping pods have electricity?
- Find out what wood is toxic to burn
- Find the answer to how long does wood take to dry after rain
- How long does Jetboil fuel last?
- The best campfire cooking kits