How to Change a Suitcase Lock Password

It can be a bit challenging if you’ve never set a suitcase lock before. Each lock type differs slightly, so it’s advisable to consult the instructions that come with your suitcase or search online for help. Nonetheless, most locks operate on the same basic principle, so once you get familiar with the mechanism, you’ll likely only need to use a button, latch, or U-shaped hook on the lock.

Unlock first. You can typically only change your password when the lock is open. Turn the dials to the old password and check if the lock opens.

• For new suitcases, the password is often provided in the documentation. You can also try the code "000".

Locate the reset button. Typically, you'll find a small reset button either at the bottom or along the edge of the lock. Use a paperclip, pen, or pencil to press the button and initiate the password reset process.

Enter your new password. While holding down the reset button, turn the dial to set your new password. Choose any combination of numbers you like, as long as it is both memorable and secure.

Release the reset button. Once you've set your new password, release the reset button. Keep in mind to switch to a different combination before locking your suitcase when you are ready to travel.

Find the lock lever. The lock lever may be inside the suitcase or on the outside near the rotating dials. Before you start, ensure you know the current password to unlock and release the zipper.

Slide the lock lever to the reset position. To change the password, the lock lever must be moved to the lock setting position. Generally, you just need to slide the lever to the second position.

Change the password. Turn the dials to set the new password. Choose a combination of numbers that is easy to remember, then turn each dial to the correct position.

Lock the suitcase by turning to a random combination. Push the lock lever back to its original position. Check by turning to a random combination, then try setting the password you just created to see if the lock opens. If everything works fine, turn the dials randomly to lock the suitcase.

Open the U-hook. First, unlock the lock by turning the numbers to the correct combination (which might be "000" for a new suitcase) and pull up the U-hook.

Rotate the U-shaped hook 90 degrees and press it down. The method of rotating and pressing the U-shaped hook depends on your lock type. Use the keyhole's position as a reference. Start by turning the U-shaped hook 90 degrees, then press it down and rotate it an additional 180 degrees from the keyhole's position.

• If this action doesn't work, try rotating the U-shaped hook 180 degrees from the keyhole's position, press it down, and then rotate it back to the 90-degree angle. Afterward, change the combination. Check by rotating the dial randomly to lock and unlock with the new code. If the lock opens, you've successfully changed the combination.

Reset the new number combination. If your lock has a dial, turn the new combination while holding down the U-shaped hook. For those with a larger dial, rotate it to enter the new password.

Return the U-shaped hook to its original position. Once the new password is set, rotate the U-shaped hook back to its original position and lock it. Perform a test to ensure the new combination unlocks the lock.