Why Baggage Handlers Advise Against Tying Anything to Your Suitcase

Have you ever tied a bright ribbon to your luggage handle to make it easier to spot? You might want to reconsider after hearing this surprising advice!

Many travelers personalize their suitcases with ribbons, tags, or stickers to avoid mix-ups at busy airports, but John, a baggage handler at Dublin Airport, suggests these well-intended decorations may cause more problems than they solve.

It’s understandable why you’d want to make your luggage stand out. After all, nothing’s more frustrating than searching through a sea of identical bags at baggage claim. Some even go as far as attaching cameras like GoPros to track their luggage. But according to John, tying a ribbon to your suitcase might not be as helpful as it seems.

John explains, “If someone attaches a ribbon to their bag, it could interfere with the automated scanning process at baggage claim. If the bag can’t be automatically scanned and requires manual handling, there’s a chance it might not make it onto your flight.”

In other words, a simple ribbon could cause your bag to be overlooked, which is definitely not a risk worth taking. John also advises travelers to remove any old travel stickers from their luggage. Expired stickers can confuse the scanners, potentially causing delays or misplacing your bag. Even though those travel stickers might hold sentimental value, it’s best to part with them for smoother travels.

John also shared a practical tip: always place your suitcase with the wheels facing up when you’re checking it in. This helps prevent damage to the wheels, keeping your suitcase in better condition.

And here’s one for travelers with a sweet tooth: avoid packing marzipan. While it may seem harmless, marzipan’s density is similar to certain explosives, which can trigger a detailed inspection. This could cause delays and even risk you missing your flight—all because of a little almond paste!

So, while it might be tempting to add a personal touch to your luggage or pack some sweet treats, it’s best to leave ribbons and marzipan at home to ensure a hassle-free trip.

Stick to these tips, and you’ll be on your way to a smoother, more stress-free journey!