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Luggage straps are not essential travel gear, but they solve a few annoyances surprisingly well.
They can help keep an overstuffed suitcase closed, make a plain black bag easier to spot at baggage claim, and add an extra layer of security if a zipper fails.
For travel nurses who fly with heavy bags every few months, that can be worth the few ounces of extra weight.
Shopping for luggage straps for travel nurses?
Quick Picks
| Pick | Best For | Style | Why We Like It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsonite Luggage Strap | Best overall | Adjustable buckle | Simple and durable |
| Travelon Luggage Strap | Best TSA-friendly | Locking strap | Extra security and easy identification |
| SwissGear Adjustable Luggage Strap | Best value | Adjustable buckle | Straightforward and reliable |
| BlueCosto Luggage Straps | Best budget multi-pack | Adjustable | Cheap way to outfit several bags |
| Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps | Best colorful set | Adjustable | Makes bags easy to identify |
| Samsonite Cross Luggage Strap | Best for extra security | Cross-style | Wraps around suitcase in two directions |
Our Overall Pick: Samsonite Luggage Strap
For most travel nurses, a basic Samsonite Luggage Strap is exactly enough.
It is simple, adjustable, and useful on almost any suitcase.
Why we like it:
- Easy to tighten.
- Bright color options can help identify luggage.
- Adds backup if a zipper fails.
- Lightweight.
- Reusable across assignments.
Best for: Most travel nurses.
Shop: [Amazon affiliate link — Samsonite Luggage Strap]
1. Samsonite Luggage Strap — Best Overall
The classic luggage strap does not need to be complicated.
Wrap it around the suitcase, tighten it, and buckle it.
Why we like it
Travel nurses may repeatedly push suitcases near their practical capacity.
A strap provides another layer of support around the bag.
Keep in mind
A strap will not magically make an overloaded suitcase stronger.
Stay within the suitcase manufacturer’s and airline’s weight limits.
Best for: Frequent assignment travel.
Shop: [Amazon affiliate link — Samsonite Luggage Strap]
2. Travelon Luggage Strap — Best TSA-Friendly Option
Travelon offers luggage straps with lock-style features designed for travel.
Why we like it
If you like the idea of combining a visible strap with an added deterrent, this is a useful category.
Keep in mind
No luggage strap makes a suitcase theft-proof.
The real value is organization, bag identification, and helping keep the case closed.
Best for: Travelers who want a little extra security.
Shop: [Amazon affiliate link — Travelon Luggage Strap]
3. SwissGear Adjustable Luggage Strap — Best Value
The SwissGear Adjustable Luggage Strap is another dependable basic option.
Why we like it
It is easy to match with common suitcase sizes and comes from a familiar luggage brand.
Keep in mind
Check the maximum strap length if you use unusually large luggage.
Best for: Standard checked suitcases.
Shop: [Amazon affiliate link — SwissGear Luggage Strap]
4. BlueCosto Luggage Straps — Best Budget Multi-Pack
If you travel with two or three checked bags, a multipack makes sense.
Why we like it
Buying several straps at once lets you use the same color coding across all your luggage.
Keep in mind
Budget buckles may not feel as substantial as premium versions.
Best for: Nurses traveling with multiple bags.
Shop: [Amazon affiliate link — BlueCosto Luggage Straps]
5. Untethered 4-Pack Luggage Straps — Best Colorful Set
Bright straps are useful because baggage claim is a sea of nearly identical black suitcases.
Why we like it
High-visibility colors make it easier to identify your luggage quickly.
Keep in mind
Do not rely on color alone. Always check the luggage tag before walking away.
Best for: Busy airports and multiple checked bags.
Shop: [Amazon affiliate link — Untethered Luggage Straps]
6. Samsonite Cross Luggage Strap — Best for Extra Security
A cross-style strap wraps the suitcase both horizontally and vertically.
Why we like it
That gives better overall containment than a single strap.
Keep in mind
It takes longer to install and remove.
Best for: Older suitcases or heavily packed bags.
Shop: [Amazon affiliate link — Samsonite Cross Luggage Strap]
What Luggage Straps Actually Do
A luggage strap can:
- Help prevent a suitcase from popping open.
- Keep exterior pockets compressed.
- Make a bag easier to identify.
- Add a small theft deterrent.
- Keep broken zipper sections contained temporarily.
What They Do Not Do
They do not:
- Make an overweight bag acceptable.
- Prevent determined theft.
- Replace a damaged suitcase.
- Guarantee the airline will not open your bag for inspection.
Bright Colors Are Useful
If you buy only one strap, consider a bright color.
It is much easier to spot:
- Orange
- Yellow
- Red
- Neon green
- Bright blue
than another black strap on another black suitcase.
TSA Locks and Straps
If a strap includes a lock, make sure it is designed appropriately for airline travel.
Security agents may need to inspect checked luggage.
Rules and screening procedures can change, so verify current TSA guidance before travel.
Single Strap vs. Cross Strap
Single strap
Best for:
- Normal suitcases
- Fast installation
- Bag identification
Cross strap
Best for:
- Older bags
- Overstuffed luggage
- More complete containment
Frequently Asked Questions
Are luggage straps worth it?
For frequent travelers, yes. They are cheap, lightweight, and useful.
Can a luggage strap stop a suitcase from opening?
It can help, especially if a zipper fails, but it is not a guaranteed repair.
Should I use one on every checked bag?
That depends on preference. Many travelers use them mainly on heavy or older suitcases.
Can TSA remove a luggage strap?
Security personnel may remove or inspect anything necessary during screening.
What color is best?
A bright color that stands out from your suitcase.
Our Verdict
A basic Samsonite Luggage Strap is our favorite overall because it does exactly what most travel nurses need without adding bulk.
If you travel with several checked bags, a colorful multipack such as Untethered or BlueCosto can make your luggage much easier to identify.
This is inexpensive gear, but it can make repeated assignment travel a little less chaotic.
Ready to pick one?