Last year, on a short trip to Austin, my suitcase just vanished. I stood there at the baggage claim, watching the same bags go around again and again. And mine was nowhere. I’d used one of those little combo locks and figured that was enough. But it wasn’t. No tracker, no idea where it ended up. I spent half a day filling out forms and stressing instead of enjoying my first night.
After that mess, I started looking for something better. Not just tougher, but smarter. That’s when I heard about SmartLock from one of my friends. It’s a small travel lock that actually connects to your iPhone. You can see where your bag is on a map, make it ring if you’re nearby, and you don’t need to install anything extra. It even survives TSA checks without getting destroyed.
I’ve taken it on a few trips since, and it’s honestly made things easier. I lock it, pair it, and don’t worry. If you’ve ever felt that awful “my bag’s gone” feeling, this SmartLock review should give you a good idea of what it’s like and whether it’s worth it for you.
SmartLock is a small but clever travel gadget that works as both a luggage lock and a tracker. It uses Apple’s Find My feature, so you can keep an eye on your bag straight from your iPhone. And the best part is that it’s built into the lock itself.
- TSA-Approved Mechanism
- Custom 3-Digit Combo Dial
- Sound Alert Function
- Replaceable Battery Setup
- It only works with Apple devices
What is SmartLock?
SmartLock is a small but clever travel gadget that works as both a luggage lock and a tracker. It uses Apple’s Find My feature, so you can keep an eye on your bag straight from your iPhone. And the best part is that it’s built into the lock itself. You don’t need to throw in a separate tracker or mess with extra stuff. Just lock your luggage and connect it to your phone.
You don’t need to install anything new here. Just press the little button on the lock to turn it on. Then open the Find My app on your iPhone, tap the plus sign, and pick “Add Other Item.” Tap it when the lock shows up on the screen, give it a name if you prefer, and that’s it. After that, you can check where your bag is anytime, or make the lock beep if you’re close but can’t spot it. There are no logins or setup hassles.
The battery inside powers the tracker, but the lock works either way. So, if the battery runs out, it still keeps your bag locked. It’s TSA-friendly too, which means security can open it without breaking it. With strong cable, solid body, and easy to use, SmartLock keeps things simple while giving you way more peace of mind when you travel.
Features of SmartLock
SmartLock might look like a simple travel lock at first, but there’s a lot going on under the surface. Here’s a quick overview of what it actually comes with.
- Apple Find My Support: This lock works with Apple’s built-in Find My app. It pairs the same way you’d add something like an AirTag. No extra apps, no weird setup steps. Just your iPhone and the lock.
- TSA-Approved Mechanism: With a universal tool, airport staff can unlock and relock the device in accordance with TSA rules. They won’t have to cut it off like a regular padlock.
- Custom 3-Digit Combo Dial: It uses a three-number combination system. You can reset the combo whenever you want by pressing a button underneath with a pen or something similar.
- Sound Alert Function: A small speaker inside the lock lets it beep when triggered from your iPhone. Handy when your bag is nearby but hidden, like under a seat, behind furniture, or mixed with other luggage.
- Replaceable Battery Setup: SmartLock runs on a CR1632 coin battery. It powers only the tracking. The lock stays functional if the battery dies. Replacing it takes seconds, just twist the back open and pop in a new one.
- Strong Cable & Metal Build: It’s made with a thick alloy cable and a solid shell that feels sturdy. It’s not flimsy like cheaper locks, and it’s built to handle being tossed around during travel.
- Simple Pairing Button: There’s a small button on the side that you press when pairing it with your phone. Hold it down, open Find My, and it pops up. That’s all there is to it.
First Impressions & What’s in the Box?
Right when I opened the package, it looked like what I expected; nothing fancy, but clean. SmartLock wasn’t wrapped in layers of packaging or decorative inserts. Just a straight-to-the-point product that felt like it belonged in a real travel bag.
Solid First Feel
The lock feels strong in the hand. It’s compact, not too light or too heavy. No loose pieces or rattling sounds. It doesn’t feel cheap, which was a relief. You can tell they didn’t cut corners with the materials or the build.
Durable Alloy Shell
To the touch, the lock casing feels solid. It’s not glossy, more of a dull finish that doesn’t scratch easily. No rough edges or weird textures either. Just a clean, tough shell that seems ready for normal wear without falling apart.
Rugged Cable Design
The cable loop is coated, so it’s not bare metal. It bends just enough to wrap through zippers or handles without being stiff. When I clicked it shut, it didn’t wiggle or feel loose. That gave me a bit of confidence right off the bat.
Clean, Minimal Branding
They didn’t overdo the branding. There’s a small logo, and that’s about it. No loud colors or pointless text. It doesn’t try to stand out, which I actually liked. It blends in with your luggage instead of making it look like a tech product.
What’s in the Box
Inside, there’s the lock itself, the battery already inside, and a tiny instruction sheet. That’s it. The guide shows you how to set it up with a few pictures. No clutter or extras, just the stuff you actually need.
Overall First Impression
SmartLock feels like it was made for people who actually travel. It doesn’t look like a scam. The build feels tough, the design is clean, and it came ready to go. And it felt solid to me at first glance.
Setup Experience
I didn’t expect the setup to be this quick. A lot of gadgets these days need apps, accounts, and updates before they even work, but SmartLock skips all of that. I had mine ready to go in less than a minute.
Press the “Find My” Button
There’s a small button on the lock. I gave it a quick press and let go. A little light blinked, which meant it was ready to connect. That’s really all it takes to start the setup without requiring any long holding or weird timing.
Connect to Apple Find My
I opened the Find My app on my iPhone, tapped the plus icon, and chose “Add Other Item.” Within seconds, SmartLock showed up on the list. I tapped to pair the device, gave it a name, and that was it. There was no hassle of downloading new apps or anything else.
Set the Combination Lock
The lock comes set to 000. To change it, I just pressed the small button on the bottom using a pen. While holding it, I turned the dials to my new numbers. That’s how I saved the new combo.
Ready to Use in Under a Minute
From start to finish, the setup took only a minute. I didn’t have to make an account or scan any QR code. Just paired it, set the combo, and it was good to go. Honestly, it felt more like setting a regular lock than anything high-tech.
Using It During Travel: Real-Life Performance
I’ve used SmartLock on three trips now, two flights and one long-distance train ride. One domestic, one international. I didn’t want to just test it for a day and call it good. I needed to see how it would actually hold up when things get hectic. Here’s how it went:
Locking and Unlocking Was Always Quick
I used the lock on two soft-shell suitcases and once on a duffel. Every time, it was simple to loop the cable through the zippers and snap it shut. Unlocking with the combo was smooth. The dials didn’t jam or feel stiff. It just worked every time.
Bag Stayed Secure the Whole Way
I kept checking the lock during layovers, baggage pickup, and hotel check-ins. Not once did I find it loose or shifted. The cable held firm, and the lock didn’t get bent or scratched, even after being handled by baggage crews. That was a nice surprise.
Tracking It Was Genuinely Helpful
On my flight back from Boston, my bag didn’t show up on the carousel. I opened the Find My app and saw it was still in the back area of the terminal. A few minutes later, it showed up on the belt. Being able to see it on the map saved me from stressing out.
Play Sound Feature Worked Like a Charm
My suitcase ended up behind the front desk at the hotel when it was moved for cleaning. I couldn’t spot it, so I used the Play Sound feature. Within seconds, I heard it beeping. I wouldn’t have found it as fast without that.
Left Behind Alerts Came in Handy
I once walked out of a lounge and got an alert saying I left my item behind. Turns out I’d forgotten my carry-on at the table. That little nudge helped me avoid leaving something important behind. I didn’t even realize SmartLock did that until it happened.
Tried Lost Mode (Just in Case)
Through the app, I tested the Lost Mode by marking the lock as lost. It let me add a phone number and message, which would show up if someone found it. I didn’t need it for real, but it was good to see it worked as promised.
Battery Didn’t Interfere With Locking
One trip ran longer than I expected, and the battery ran low. I got a warning on my phone, but the lock itself kept working. Since the battery only powers tracking, I had zero problems opening or closing it.
No Issues Through Security or Customs
TSA agents didn’t cut the lock or ask questions. It went through just like any other TSA-approved lock. I was honestly glad not to deal with broken zippers or missing locks like I’ve experienced in the past.
SmartLock didn’t just survive real travel; it made things easier. No pairing issues, no weird malfunctions. The lock did its job, and the tracking gave me peace of mind. It fits in with my usual travel gear without standing out, and it’s now part of my routine. If someone asked me whether it’s worth it, I’d point them to this SmartLock review and say yes, especially if you’ve ever had that sinking feeling at baggage claim.
Pros and Cons
After using SmartLock on multiple trips, a few things stood out right away. Some features really made travel easier, while one small thing could be better, but nothing that would stop me from using it again.
Battery Life and Replacement
What I liked about SmartLock is that it doesn’t need charging or any extra gear. It’s powered by a small coin battery that lasts a while, and swapping it out takes barely any effort.
Uses a Simple Coin Battery
This lock runs on a CR1632 battery, the same kind used in remotes or small electronics. No charging needed. Just slide a new one in when the old one runs out, and it’s back to normal.
Long Battery Life
From what I saw during my own trips, the battery holds up well. After two flights and several days of use, I still hadn’t replaced it. When it does start to run low, you’ll get a heads-up right on your iPhone.
Easy to Replace
Changing the battery doesn’t take much. I used a coin to twist open the back, pulled out the old one, and slid the new battery in without requiring any tools. It was done in under a minute.
Battery Powers Tracking Only
Even when the battery started dying, the lock itself kept working fine. That’s because the battery only powers the tracking. Locking and unlocking still work normally, which gives me peace of mind.
Who Should Use SmartLock?
SmartLock isn’t one of those over-complicated gadgets you buy and forget. It’s actually useful and not just for one type of traveler. After using it myself, here’s who I think it makes the most sense for.
- People Who Fly a Lot: If you're in and out of airports all the time, this is a no-brainer. You won’t need to worry about your bag disappearing, and the lock holds up well through all the usual travel chaos.
- Anyone Who Travels for Work: When you’re carrying stuff you can’t afford to lose, like a laptop, hard drive, or samples, this lock helps you keep an eye on it without much effort.
- iPhone Users: This is built for Apple people. If you use an iPhone or iPad, you’ll like how easily it connects. No extra app and no weird pairing steps. It just shows up and works.
- People Flying Overseas: International travel comes with extra checks, and not every lock survives customs. This one does. TSA agents can open it without cutting anything, which means fewer problems on your return trip.
- Anyone Who’s Had a Bag Go Missing: If you’ve ever stood at baggage claim waiting for a bag that never shows up, you already know why this matters. Seeing your suitcase on a map brings real peace of mind.
- Travelers Who Hate Carrying Extra Gear: No one wants to mess with a separate lock and a tracker. This combines both in one, and it doesn’t take up any extra space in your bag or brain.
- Parents, Couples, or Group Travelers: When you’re not traveling alone, it helps to share tracking info. SmartLock lets more than one person check in on a bag, which is great when you’re managing stuff for others.
What Makes It Different From Other Locks?
There are a lot of travel locks and tracking gadgets out there, and most people just go with whatever is cheap or popular. But after using SmartLock, I noticed right away that it’s not trying to do too much. It just solves a real problem in a simple way.
Most standard locks just keep the zipper shut, and that’s it. If the TSA needs to check your bag, they’ll usually cut it off without a second thought. On the other hand, a tracker like an AirTag helps you see where your bag is, but it doesn’t keep anyone out of it. And if it’s not attached well, it can fall out without you noticing.
SmartLock changes that. It combines the tracking part and the locking part into one single device. You don’t need to carry two things, install extra apps, or worry about charging. It connects with Apple’s “Find My” right away, and once it’s in your bag, it stays there until you take it off. That combination of real security and real tracking is what made me write down this SmartLock review.
Comparison Chart – SmartLock vs Others:
| Features | SmartLock | Basic Lock | Other Smart Locks |
| Lock and Tracker Combined | Yes | No | Sometimes |
| TSA-Approved | Yes | Usually | Varies |
| Works with Apple Find My | Built-in | No | Rare |
| Easy Setup Without App | Yes | Yes | Often requires an app |
| Cut by TSA During Inspection | No | Yes | Depends on design |
| Securely Attached to Bag | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Lock Still Works if Battery Dies | Yes | Yes | Not always |
What I liked about SmartLock is how it keeps things simple. It locks your bag and helps you keep track of it, all in one piece of gear. You don’t need anything extra, and you don’t have to think twice once it’s on. It just does what it’s supposed to.
Real-Life Users Testimonials
Everyone uses it a little differently, but there are moments when this gadget stands out for them. Here’s what a few everyday travelers had to say after trying SmartLock on their own trips.
“I used it on a week-long trip through Europe, and it held up great. The lock stayed tight the whole time, and tracking worked like a charm. Setup was done in under a minute.”
— Jenna
“Airport security didn’t cut it off like my old lock, which was already a win. I also liked that I didn’t need to install anything. Just added it in the Find My app and done.”
— Marcus
“I didn’t even realize it could beep until I lost my bag in the hotel lobby. Tapped a button on my phone and found it under a chair. That feature alone saved me time.”
— Priya
“I’m not really into tech stuff, but this was simple. I pressed one button, set my combo, and that was it. It feels solid as well, not like those cheap locks that break in a week.”
— Brian
“I travel with my kids, and this helped us keep an eye on all our bags. I could check where they were from my phone without asking. Makes group travel a little less stressful.”
— Lauren
Pricing of SmartLock
When I first looked into SmartLock, I was expecting something expensive, especially since it’s got Apple tracking built in. But surprisingly, it’s actually quite affordable. A single lock costs $29.99, which already includes a small discount off the regular price.
Since I needed more than one anyway, I chose the “Buy 3, Get 2 Free” bundle. It cost me $98.97 for five locks, which means each one ended up costing less than twenty bucks. That felt like a pretty good deal, especially considering the extra peace of mind I got while travelling. Besides, shipping was free with the bundle, which helped seal the deal.
You’ll also find two more bundle choices there. The “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” deal costs $65.98, and the “Buy 4, Get 3 Free” option is priced at $131.96. Both came with free shipping when I checked, and there were no weird add-ons or surprise fees during checkout, which I always appreciate.
Where to Buy?
I didn’t spend much time thinking about where to get my SmartLock. I had heard enough about fake listings and scams floating around, so I avoided all of that and just went straight to the official website. That way, I knew what I was getting and also was not worried about whether it would even show up.
The ordering procedure was pretty straightforward. I picked the pack that made sense for me, dropped in my info, and paid the purchase amount without much effort. There were no weird steps or confusing screens. They mailed me the tracking right after, and the lock showed up right when they said it would.
If you’re thinking of buying one, I would suggest sticking with their own website. Here, you know where it’s coming from and you’re not guessing about whether it’s real or not. Besides, if you ever need help or something goes wrong, it’s much easier to resolve since it has a 2-year warranty. That alone made the choice simple for me.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still got a few things on your mind? That’s fair. Here are some quick answers to the questions I had before buying SmartLock myself.
Can I Use SmartLock on Items Other Than Luggage?
Yes, definitely. I’ve used it on my gym bag and even to lock a backpack while out and about. As long as the cable fits, it’ll secure just about anything.
How Does It Handle Rain or Moisture?
The outer shell and cable feel solid and resistant to splashes or light rain. I wouldn’t toss it in a pool, but it holds up well in everyday conditions. Mine survived a rainy airport run with no issues.
Will It Work Inside a Locker or Enclosed Space?
It depends on the signal strength around you. I’ve tested it inside a gym locker, and the location is still updated through my phone. Just don’t expect perfect tracking deep underground or behind thick walls.
Can I Rename My SmartLock After Setup?
Yes, you can change the name anytime in the Find My app. I renamed mine after switching it to a different bag. Just tap the device and edit the name under settings.
Is The Battery Easy to Check Without Removing It?
You’ll get a low battery alert on your iPhone, so you don’t need to open it just to check. I’ve only had to change it once after months of use. It’s quick and doesn’t need any tools beyond a coin.
Final Verdict
SmartLock turned out to be one of those things I didn’t know I needed until I used it. It locked my bag without a problem, connected with my iPhone in seconds, and stayed out of the way the whole time. It just did its job, no hassle.
If you’ve been stuck between using a regular lock or messing with a tracker that might fall out, this SmartLock review should help you decide. It’s simple, solid, and something I’ll be using on every trip from now on.
SmartLock is a small but clever travel gadget that works as both a luggage lock and a tracker. It uses Apple’s Find My feature, so you can keep an eye on your bag straight from your iPhone. And the best part is that it’s built into the lock itself.
- TSA-Approved Mechanism
- Custom 3-Digit Combo Dial
- Sound Alert Function
- Replaceable Battery Setup
- It only works with Apple devices
