For many campers, a tent is not complete without a lock.
A camping tent lock adds another layer of security to your vulnerable shelter.
And while they won’t keep an overly determined threat from entering your tent, they will keep away opportunistic burglars from an easy score and even buy you time if somebody tries to enter your tent at night while you’re sleeping.
So, let’s look at the 3 best camping tent locks available today and find the right option for your camping needs.
Camping Tent Lock Comparison Chart
| Description | Type | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Editor’s Choice  | Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination Lock | Combination Lock | ||
 | Lewis N. Clark Cable Lock | Combination Lock | ||
 | Travel More Flexible Mini Key Padlock | Key Lock |
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Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination Lock
Master Lock’s 4688D TSA-Approved lock is a great way to protect your suitcase while traveling… and your tent!
The combination lock allows you to set your own 3 digit combination for security. You can also use the Master Lock as a hiking backpack lock or cooler lock.
This travel lock is constructed with a metal body for durability and an abuse-resistant vinyl-covered cable.
It’s available in black, red, blue, and silver.
Here’s a quick overview of the features and benefits of the 4688D lock.
Product Features
- Combination lock – no key to lose!
- Extremely durable and versatile
- Set and reset your own combination
- TSA-Approved so you can use it for flying as well as on your tent
- The flexible cable design should fit through most tent zippers
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Master Lock
- Model: 4688D
- Dimensions: 0.65 x 1.19 x 3.15 inches
- Weight: 2.4 ounces
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination Lock
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Lewis N. Clark Cable Lock
The Lewis N. Clark Cable Lock is another great solution for securing your tent, backpack, or other valuables while traveling abroad.
The cable lock comes with a flexible 30-inch stainless steel cable that retracts inside of the lock. The ABS casing makes this lock extremely durable, especially in outdoor elements.
This lock provides an easy way to secure your tent doors and protect your belongings while still remaining lightweight and compact enough to fit into your hiking backpack.
The thermoplastic rubber housing provides a comfortable grip that’s easy on the hands when securing items.
Product Features
- 3-dial combination lock – no key to lose!
- The thermoplastic rubber and ABS housing make it durable and versatile
- Set and reset your own combination
- TSA-Approved (so it can double as a luggage lock when flying)
- The retractable steel cable design should fit through most tent and backpack zippers
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Lewis N. Clark
- Model: LOC88
- Dimensions: 3 x 2 x 5 inches
- Weight: 2.08 ounces
- Warranty: 1-year
Lewis N. Clark Cable Lock
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Travel More Flexible Mini Key Padlock
The Travel More Flexible Mini Key Padlock is a sturdy, sleek, and well-designed lock.
Like all of the locks in this list, this lock was designed with travel in mind and is TSA approved. These locks don’t lack in durability as they are made from an extremely tough Zinc Alloy that’s perfect for the great outdoors.
The uniquely designed key lock comes with a detachable wire stem. It includes two keys and you can use it just like any other traditional zipper lock.
These locks are available in black or orange and come with a 100% money-back guarantee.
Product Features
- Locks and unlocks with a key (two keys included)
- Constructed with high-strength zinc alloy
- Fits nicely through tent door zippers
- TSA-Approved (so it can double as a luggage lock when flying)
- 100% money-back guarantee
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Travel More
- Model: N/A
- Dimensions: 1.6″ x 0.6″ x 0.6″
- Weight: 0.3 ounces
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Travel More Flexible Mini Key Padlock
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Camping Tent Lock Buyers Guide
Camping tent locks are essentially locks that attach to the zippers on your tent door. There aren’t specific locks designed and being sold as a “camping tent lock” (at least at this time).
So, the next best alternative to secure your tent is with a “zipper lock”, most of which are designed for luggage and travel use.
Here are some of the things you should know about these types of locks and what you should look for when purchasing one for your tent.
Lock Type
The first consideration when choosing a tent lock is going to be the type of lock.
Typically, padlocks come with either a shackle or a cable locking mechanism. While you might get a shackle to work on your tent door zippers, a cable-style lock is preferred as the cable can go through the two zippers much easier.
Combination or Key?
Portable padlocks lock and unlock in two main ways: with a key or by using a combination.
Either will work, but we prefer using a combination style lock for two reasons:
- With a combination lock, you don’t have to worry about carrying around or losing the key.
- If you’re inside a locked tent, you may have to get out fast! Unless you have the key ready to go, a combination lock is usually quicker, especially if you leave the lock combo only one digit off from being unlocked. You could technically leave the key in the lock (in the locked position), but then you risk the key falling out and losing it.
Again, this is purely preference, but we prefer combo-style locks.
Ease of Use
You want a tent lock that is easy to use! And by that we mean:
- A lock that is easy to lock and unlock quickly
- Is easy to change or reset the combination
- Easily fits through tent zippers
The harder it is to lock/unlock your tent lock, or fit it through the tent zippers, etc. the less likely you are to actually use it.
By keeping things easy and simple, you are more likely to take the extra measures to keep your tent and valuables safe.
Portability
All of your camping gear is designed for portability – your tent, backpack, and so on – so why not your tent lock, as well?
While even the largest zipper-lock won’t be much of a burden, if you have to carry multiple locks for multiple tents, your backpack, cooler, and so on, then portability becomes a higher priority.
All of the locks featured on the list above are ultra-lightweight and easy to carry.
FAQS
Can You Lock a Tent From the Inside?
You can lock a tent from the inside using a zipper-lock, a shoestring, or any device that can secure two zippers together. You simply zip your tent doors shut and secure the two zippers together with your lock so an intruder can’t gain easy access.
Check out our preferred way to lock a tent with a simple step-by-step tutorial in our guide on How to Lock a Tent From the Inside.
How Do I Secure My Tent When Camping?
Tent locks will provide a very basic level of security when tent camping. Of course, they won’t stop a determined threat from gaining access, but they can slow down or even stop an opportunistic burglar from an easy score.
Beyond camping tent locks, choosing a safe campsite will be your best bet in securing your tent and other valuables. Camping in groups, setting up a camp perimeter alarm system, and taking your dog camping are all great ways to help secure your tent.
Check out our top 10 tent security tips for more ways to secure your tent and campsite when camping.
How Do I Stop Someone From Stealing My Tent?
If you’re worried about someone stealing your camping tent, the best way to stop them is with p-locks. P-locks essentially “lock” your tent to the ground so nobody can steal it.
P-Locks Theft Deterrent Anchoring System
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And again, choosing a safe campground, keeping valuables out of sight, and camping in groups will go a long way in preventing your tent from being stolen on your next camping trip.