If you’ve ever found yourself waiting anxiously at the baggage carousel, scanning each suitcase as it rolls by, you know the stress of trying to identify your bag among a sea of identical ones. It’s enough to make you feel like your suitcase will never appear. While many travelers have turned to colorful ribbons or unique markers to help their luggage stand out, an airport worker is warning that these well-intentioned tricks might not be as helpful as you think.
So, why should you reconsider using ribbons or packing marzipan? Read on to discover why these popular travel hacks might cause more problems than they solve.
Losing luggage is a nightmare no one wants to experience. Even seasoned travelers can’t help but feel a twinge of anxiety when watching dozens of similar suitcases pass by. To reduce the risk of grabbing the wrong bag, travelers have long been attaching brightly colored ribbons to their suitcases. This small detail is meant to make their luggage more recognizable and, hopefully, avoid the embarrassment of walking off with someone else’s bag.
However, according to John, a Dublin Airport baggage handler, these markers might actually make things worse. John, who has firsthand experience handling thousands of bags, explains that adding ribbons to your suitcase can interfere with the smooth processing of your luggage, potentially causing delays and even preventing it from making it onto your flight.
John explains that the ribbons can obstruct the automated scanning systems at the airport. “If the bag can’t be scanned properly due to these markers, it could end up going through manual processing,” he warns. “And that might mean your luggage doesn’t make it to the flight on time.” So, while the idea of marking your bag with a ribbon seems like a smart move, it could backfire and cause unnecessary stress as your bag misses its chance to board.
In addition to ribbons, John advises travelers to remove any old stickers from their luggage. “Old travel stickers can confuse the scanners,” he explains. “Take them off to avoid any mix-ups during the check-in process.” By keeping your luggage as simple and clean as possible, you give it the best chance of making it through the system smoothly and without delay.
Another surprising tip John shares is about marzipan. Yes, the sweet almond confection that many travelers pack for a treat or a gift. It turns out that marzipan has a similar density to certain explosives, which can trigger alarms during security checks. “Don’t ever pack marzipan in your luggage,” John warns. “It could cause your bag to be flagged by security, leading to a bag search and potentially even delays to your flight.” So, while marzipan might be a delicious treat, it’s better to leave it off your packing list if you want to avoid unnecessary hassle.
Lastly, John shares a final tip that might seem obvious but is often overlooked: make sure your suitcase is packed properly before sending it down the conveyor belt. “Always place your luggage with the wheels facing up,” he advises. This simple step can help protect your suitcase from damage as it’s handled and transported through the airport.
With these tips in mind, it’s clear that luggage technology and travel norms have evolved over the years. The days of basic black, brown, or navy suitcases are slowly fading, as more travelers opt for bold colors and unique designs to make their bags stand out. Travel experts, like those at Travel & Leisure, suggest avoiding black luggage entirely, as it’s the most common color and can easily blend into the crowd. Instead, consider choosing a patterned suitcase or a bright color, like hot pink, to make your bag more recognizable.
But what if you’re not ready to part with your old suitcase? No problem! You can easily customize your bag using fabric paint, stickers, or other non-intrusive markers that won’t interfere with airport scanners. This allows you to add a personal touch while ensuring your luggage remains easily identifiable.
By following the advice from the Dublin Airport handler, travelers can minimize the chances of losing their luggage, avoid potential delays, and make the entire travel experience a little less stressful. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, these simple tips can make all the difference when it comes to ensuring your luggage gets where it needs to go.
