If you’ve ever stood at a baggage carousel, anxiously scanning for your suitcase among rows of nearly identical bags, you’re not alone. It’s a common source of stress for travelers, whether you’re flying for business, vacation, or anything in between. To make their luggage easier to identify, savvy travelers often tie bright ribbons, attach colorful straps, or add unique markers to their suitcases. However, a surprising warning from an experienced airport baggage handler might make you rethink this approach.
While these personal touches seem like a practical solution, they can unintentionally create more problems than they solve. A baggage handler at Dublin Airport, identified as John, recently shared insights into how ribbons, straps, and similar identifiers could interfere with the baggage handling process—leading to delays that might keep your luggage from making it onto your flight.
The Stress of Losing Luggage
Losing your luggage is a nightmare scenario for any traveler. It doesn’t matter how experienced you are; the idea of arriving at your destination without your belongings is enough to make anyone anxious. To minimize this risk, many travelers take extra precautions, like marking their suitcases with bright ribbons or colorful tags. These identifiers make it easier to spot a bag quickly and help prevent someone else from mistakenly taking it.
While the intention behind these personal markers is good, John explains that they can cause unintended complications. In an interview with RSVP Live, he warned that such additions can interfere with the airport’s automated baggage scanning systems.
How Ribbons Can Cause Delays
Most major airports rely on highly efficient automated systems to handle baggage. These systems scan, sort, and route luggage to the correct flights using advanced technology. However, when travelers add ribbons, straps, or other items to their suitcases, these can obstruct the scanners.
“Ribbons that people attach for easy identification can block the scanner, causing the bag to be processed manually,” John explained. “This delay might prevent the luggage from making it onto the flight.”
Once a bag is flagged for manual processing, it’s removed from the automated system and inspected by hand. This process takes significantly more time and increases the likelihood that the bag might miss its intended flight. For travelers already worried about delays or tight connections, this is an added risk that’s better avoided.
Other Common Mistakes: Old Travel Stickers
Ribbons and straps aren’t the only culprits. According to John, leaving old travel stickers or tags on your suitcase can also cause problems. These outdated markers can confuse the scanners, leading to misrouting or delays.
“People often forget to remove tags from previous trips,” John said. “This can lead to the system reading the wrong information, sending the bag to the wrong place or causing unnecessary delays.”
To avoid such issues, always remove old stickers and tags before your next trip. A clean, uncluttered suitcase is easier for the automated system to process, reducing the chances of a delay.
Smarter Ways to Identify Your Luggage
If tying ribbons or straps isn’t ideal, what’s the best way to make your suitcase stand out? Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives that won’t interfere with the baggage handling process:
- Choose a Unique Bag: Opt for a suitcase in a distinctive color or pattern. Many brands offer bold, eye-catching designs that make it easy to spot your bag without needing additional markers.
- Use Luggage Tags: Invest in a durable, brightly colored luggage tag with your name and contact information. A unique tag is less likely to obstruct scanners and still helps your bag stand out.
- Add Non-Intrusive Markers: Small items like colored zipper pulls or unique handle wraps can personalize your suitcase without interfering with automated systems.
- Consider a Luggage Cover: A custom luggage cover not only makes your bag instantly recognizable but also provides an extra layer of protection during transit.
Surprising Packing Tips
John also noted that travelers should be mindful of what they pack, as certain items can trigger delays during the scanning process. For example, he mentioned marzipan—a dense almond-based confection—that scanners can sometimes flag as suspicious due to its texture. While marzipan may not be a common packing item, it serves as a reminder to carefully consider what goes into your suitcase.
A Hassle-Free Travel Experience
Traveling is stressful enough without adding unnecessary complications. By avoiding ribbons, straps, and old stickers, you can help ensure your luggage passes through the airport’s systems without delay. Choosing a distinctive suitcase or using subtle identifiers can achieve the same goal—helping you spot your bag quickly—without risking interference with the scanners.
Ultimately, the goal is to make sure your suitcase arrives at your destination on time, just like you. While it may feel like a small detail, avoiding ribbons and similar markers can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth travel experience.
Next time you pack for a trip, keep these tips in mind. You’ll not only save yourself the headache of delayed luggage but also make life a little easier for the hardworking baggage handlers who keep your journey running smoothly. Safe travels!
