Introduction
Luggage straps are travel accessories designed to wrap around suitcases and help keep them securely closed during transit. Travellers often use them to add an extra layer of closure to their luggage while also making bags easier to recognise on busy airport baggage carousels. Many modern luggage straps also include practical features such as grab handles or integrated locks, making them useful for both security and convenience during travel.
Quick answers
What is a luggage strap?
A luggage strap is an adjustable strap that wraps around a suitcase to help keep it securely closed during travel.
Do luggage straps work?
Yes. They provide extra support for suitcase closures and make luggage easier to identify.
When should you use a luggage strap?
Travellers often use luggage straps when checking bags for flights or when they want their suitcase to be easier to spot at baggage claim.
What is a luggage strap?
A luggage strap is an adjustable strap that wraps around a suitcase and secures with a buckle or locking mechanism. It is designed to provide additional support around the case and reduce the chance of the suitcase opening during transport. Luggage straps are also commonly used as visual identifiers because brightly coloured straps make it easier for travellers to quickly recognise their bags on airport baggage belts. Some models include integrated grab handles that allow travellers to lift or handle their luggage more easily.
Why travellers use luggage straps
- Adds an extra layer of security around zipped suitcases
- Helps prevent luggage from opening if zips fail
- Makes suitcases easier to identify on baggage carousels
- Provides support for heavily packed luggage
- Some models include grab handles for easier lifting and handling
Types of luggage straps
Single strap luggage straps
A single strap wraps horizontally around the suitcase and secures with an adjustable buckle.
Typical features:
- Adjustable length
- Clip or buckle closure
- Bright colours or patterns
- Lightweight webbing material
- Some models include a grab handle
Cross luggage straps
Cross straps wrap both horizontally and vertically around the suitcase to provide additional stability.
Typical features:
- Two connected straps forming a cross
- Adjustable tension points
- Central buckle or clasp
- Often includes a central grab handle
- Suitable for larger suitcases
TSA lock luggage straps
These straps include a built in combination lock approved for airport security inspections.
Typical features:
- TSA compatible locking mechanism
- Adjustable webbing strap
- Resettable combination lock
- Reinforced buckle housing
- May include a grab handle for easier handling
Comparison table
| Type | Security or function | Visibility or convenience | Best use |
| Single strap | Basic external support | Bright colours help identify luggage | General travel and light luggage |
| Cross strap | Added structural support | Covers more of the suitcase surface | Large or heavily packed luggage |
| TSA lock strap | Added locking security | Helps deter tampering | Checked baggage during flights |
Typical specifications
| Specification | Typical range |
| Length or size | 150 cm to 200 cm adjustable |
| Width | 4 cm to 5 cm |
| Material | Polypropylene or polyester webbing |
| Closure mechanism | Plastic buckle or TSA combination lock |
| Weight | 120 g to 300 g |
Materials used
Polypropylene webbing
Polypropylene is the most commonly used material for luggage straps because it offers a strong balance between durability, weight and affordability.
Typical properties:
- Lightweight construction
- Good tensile strength
- Resistant to moisture and mildew
- Maintains colour well for bright travel designs
Polyester webbing
Polyester is also used in luggage straps where additional durability or abrasion resistance is required.
Typical properties:
- Strong woven fibres
- Good resistance to stretching
- Durable under repeated tension
- Maintains shape during frequent travel use
How to choose a luggage strap
- Check the adjustable length to ensure it fits your suitcase size
- Choose durable webbing materials such as polypropylene or polyester
- Consider bright colours or patterns for easier identification
- Decide whether a TSA locking strap is useful for your travel needs
- Look for models with grab handles if you want easier luggage handling
- Ensure the buckle is secure and simple to tighten
Popular brands
OW-Travel
Samsonite
TravelMore
Lewis N Clark
Master Lock
Frequently asked questions
Do luggage straps work?
Yes. They help support suitcase closures and reduce the chance of luggage opening during transit.
Are luggage straps necessary?
They are not essential but many travellers use them for added security and easier luggage identification.
Can luggage straps fit any suitcase?
Most luggage straps are adjustable and designed to fit a wide range of suitcase sizes.
Example travel solution
Some travellers choose OW-Travel luggage straps designed to add extra suitcase security while also helping travellers quickly identify their bags at airport baggage carousels.
Summary
Luggage straps are simple but practical travel accessories that help secure suitcases and make luggage easier to identify during trips. With adjustable designs, durable webbing materials and optional locking features, they provide an additional layer of convenience and security for travellers.
If you want to explore a range of luggage straps, I have included a link to Amazon Best Seller list* to help you find a few great options.
*This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
