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The Best Portable Door Lock

Last updated on March 2, 2023

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If you’ve ever worried about the strength of the locks in your hotel room, you know the benefits a travel lock can bring. In fact, with more people staying in vacation rental homes than ever, portable security locks have gained attention in recent years. You don’t know who has access to your vacation home when you’re staying there, so an extra lock can provide protection against previous guests who still have the keycode.

A secondary lock should be small enough to slide into the pocket of a purse or suitcase without weighing you down or getting in the way. But it should also be sturdy enough to provide the security you need, use after use. Hopefully, you’ll never have to test its strength in a real break-in situation, but you’ll want the security of knowing it will work if necessary.

For best results, look at the materials used to put the security device together. It should be made of heavy-duty materials like steel. Any secondary pieces should easily hold up. Some security locks are built to slide over the strike plate, while others are more of a doorstop, sliding under the bottom of the door to keep it from budging.

With the type of lock that fits over the strike plate, the key is to fit over the existing setup without damaging it. These devices can vary in how they work, but usually, you can put them in place in a matter of seconds. You may need to follow the instructions the first couple of times but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it’s easy.

Before you buy a portable door lock, check the door specifications. Many of them only work with a door that opens inward. These locks are designed for hinged doors, too. If you have a sliding door, you’ll need a different kind of security lock.

Our Picks For The Top Portable Door Locks

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

VINCREY Stainless Steel Security Portable Door Lock

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

VINCREY

Stainless Steel Security Portable Door Lock

Add a layer of safety to your home, Airbnb or hotel room with this portable door lock. It's constructed using a strong stainless steel and is designed to fit most doors. The lock installs in just three quick steps. When not in use, you can store the door lock in the provided carry bag.

Overall Take

Compact Yet EffectiveThis portable door lock measures 1.18 inches by 6.6 inches.

 Runner Up

REOKA Universal Easy Install Portable Door Lock

REOKA

Universal Easy Install Portable Door Lock

Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, this portable door lock is a must! It has a universal design and can be used to prevent intruders from entering your temporary accommodations. You don't need any extra tools to install it and it's small enough to fit neatly inside any travel bag.

Overall Take

Attractive Blue ColorThis portable door lock comes with a complimentary carry bag.

 We Also Like

Addalock Easy Install Metal Portable Door Lock

Addalock

Easy Install Metal Portable Door Lock

This portable door lock has a versatile design that allows it to be usable on most inward-swinging doors with a hinge. It installs in seconds by simply sliding it into position on the strike plate and closing the door. You can even test it to ensure it will work before you fully install it.

Overall Take

Versatile DesignThis security lock works with most doors that are hinged and open inward.

 Strong Contender

AceMining Compact Universal Portable Door Lock, 2-Pack

AceMining

Compact Universal Portable Door Lock, 2-Pack

Ladies will love these portable door locks, which are pink in color. Each of the two locks is constructed using a strong stainless steel, so you can count them lasting. When inserted into any door, the security lock prevents anyone from opening your door from the outside, keeping you and your loved ones safe.

Overall Take

No Tools NeededThe compact design of this portable door lock means you won't have any trouble packing it in your carry on.

What to Look For

  • If you’re buying a portable door lock for use in vacation homes and hotel rooms, make sure the design won’t damage the door.
  • Although you can easily tuck your portable door lock into a pocket, having a storage pouch can be useful. If your lock doesn’t come with one, consider purchasing one separately.
  • With some portable door locks, the red handle is everything. This is the piece that blocks the door when someone tries to open it. Look for a handle that’s thick and solid and can withstand great force.
  • Some portable door locks come with a built-in alarm. If someone tries to open the door, the alarm makes an ear-piercing noise. It’s not connected to emergency personnel, but it could be enough to scare someone away.
  • Before you slide the lock into place, look carefully at any instructions. Some will let you test it before you install it.
  • You may want to test the lock to make sure it’s secure after it’s installed. Have someone stand outside the door and try to open it.
  • Although portable door locks are great for traveling, if you’re looking for something for a longer-term residence, like an apartment or dorm room, it might be worth investing in a deadbolt lock. If one isn’t provided, check with your landlord or dorm advisor to ask if it’s okay to install such a thing.
  • How the device behaves when it’s removed is important, as well. You’ll want a lock that doesn’t break into multiple pieces as soon as you extract it from the door.
  • For hotel rooms, doorstop-style locks work well. They can handle a wide range of door stops and will easily store in your luggage or carry-on bag.
  • Try to avoid leaving valuables in your rental house or hotel room when you’re out. You won’t have your extra security lock to protect everything. You may want to use the hotel room’s safe or bring your own if you’re staying in a rental house.

More to Explore

A lock is just one safety measure you can take when vacationing. If you’re staying in a hotel, you can also put the Do Not Disturb sign on the door when you leave the room. This will give the impression someone’s inside. You may also want to close blinds and curtains if it’s possible someone outside can see in.

If a stranger knocks on your door, you should always use caution. If you aren’t expecting someone, don’t open the door, even if the person claims to be an employee. When in doubt, pick up the phone and call the front desk to verify the employee’s identity.

More to explore