If you’ve ever anxiously scanned the baggage carousel at an airport, searching for your suitcase among a sea of nearly identical bags, you know the stress it can cause. To solve this problem, many savvy travelers tie colorful ribbons to their luggage, making it easier to spot. However, an airport worker has recently issued a cautionary note: using these personal markers might come with unintended consequences that you can’t simply ignore.
The Common Practice: Why Travelers Use Ribbons on Luggage
The fear of losing luggage or someone else mistakenly taking your bag is enough to make even the most seasoned traveler uneasy. To minimize these risks, many travelers attach colorful ribbons or other unique identifiers to their suitcases. These markers make it easier to spot your bag on the carousel, saving you the trouble of examining every black suitcase that comes around. But while this practice seems harmless, it may be doing more harm than good.
The Hidden Risk: What Airport Workers Say About Luggage Ribbons
According to John, a seasoned baggage handler at Dublin Airport, tying identifying ribbons to your luggage might actually cause delays. Speaking to RSVP Live, John explained that these popular tricks could turn your worst travel nightmare into reality. “Ribbons that people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall,” John shared. “If the bag can’t be scanned automatically, it may need to be processed manually, which could mean your bag doesn’t make it onto the flight.”
This revelation is particularly concerning for those who rely on these markers to ensure their luggage isn’t misplaced. The idea that a simple ribbon could cause your bag to miss its flight is enough to make anyone think twice about using this common trick.
Why Ribbons and Old Stickers Could Delay Your Luggage
One of the reasons ribbons pose a problem is because they can interfere with the automated scanning systems used in many airports. These systems are designed to quickly and efficiently scan luggage tags and sort bags to their correct destinations. However, if the system can’t get a clear scan due to ribbons, tags, or old stickers, your bag might be flagged for manual processing. This not only delays your bag but could also lead to it being mishandled or, in the worst case, left behind.
John suggests that checking in your suitcase without these identifiers gives it a better chance of arriving on time and intact. He also advises removing any old travel stickers from your bag, as they can cause confusion during the scanning process. “Remove old stickers from your bag, as they can cause confusion during the scanning process,” John advised.
Other Unexpected Items That Could Cause Issues
Ribbons aren’t the only thing that could cause problems with your luggage. John also shared a surprising tip about another item to avoid packing: marzipan. This delicious almond-based treat, popular around the holidays, could lead to security issues. “Never pack marzipan in your luggage. It has a similar density to some explosives, so your bag might be removed, and you could be called off the plane for a bag search,” John warned.
This tip might sound odd, but it’s a good reminder that some seemingly harmless items can cause unexpected complications during air travel. Just like you wouldn’t pack prohibited items, being mindful of what else you put in your suitcase can help avoid unnecessary delays.
How to Safely Identify Your Luggage Without Causing Delays
So, if ribbons are a no-go, how can you make your luggage stand out without risking delays? The answer lies in choosing the right luggage or using alternative methods to make your bag identifiable.
One of the simplest solutions is to opt for a suitcase in a bold or unique color. According to Travel & Leisure, black luggage is “one of the most—if not the most—versatile colors, which is why it’s so popular.” But if you want your luggage to stand out at baggage claim, consider selecting a different hue. Colors like hot pink, bright blue, or even patterned designs can make your suitcase instantly recognizable without the need for additional identifiers.
If you’re not ready to part with your current suitcase, consider using fabric paint or stickers to add unique identifying features that won’t interfere with the scanning process. These methods allow you to personalize your bag in a way that won’t cause issues during the automated scanning process at the airport.
Additional Tips for Stress-Free Travel
While ensuring your luggage is easily identifiable is important, there are other steps you can take to minimize stress when traveling. For example, arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare can reduce the anxiety of rushing through check-in and security. Also, consider using top-rated probiotics for gut health or best vitamins for the immune system to keep your health in check during your travels.
Moreover, staying organized with your packing can make a world of difference. Using packing cubes or compartments within your suitcase helps you quickly locate items, reducing the time spent rummaging through your bag. Finally, always keep essential items like medications, chargers, and documents in your carry-on to avoid the worst-case scenario of being separated from them.
Conclusion: Rethinking the Ribbons on Your Luggage
While it might seem like a harmless way to spot your suitcase, tying ribbons to your luggage could lead to unexpected delays. With the potential to interfere with automated scanning systems, these personal markers might do more harm than good. Instead, opt for a suitcase in a distinctive color or use alternative methods to make your bag stand out without causing issues during check-in. By taking these simple precautions, you can ensure that your luggage arrives at your destination on time and intact, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
