We all know the feeling of standing by the airport conveyor belt, anxiously trying to spot our suitcase among a sea of similar ones. It’s a common trick for travelers to tie a ribbon on their bags to make them easier to identify. However, a seasoned baggage handler from Dublin Airport has shed light on why this seemingly clever strategy might actually be a bad idea.
The idea of losing your luggage or having it mistakenly taken by someone else is enough to cause concern for even the most experienced traveler. To avoid such issues, many resort to tying colorful ribbons on their suitcases in hopes of distinguishing them.
However, according to John, an airport baggage handler, this practice isn’t as helpful as one might think. He warns that tying ribbons can lead to delays and complications, making it possible for your luggage to miss the flight altogether.
Why You Should Skip the Ribbon
In a conversation with RSVPLive, John elaborated on the pitfalls of using ribbons to identify luggage. “Ribbons can impede the baggage scanning process,” he explained. “When a suitcase can’t be scanned automatically due to ribbons or other markers, it often requires manual processing, increasing the risk of it not making it onto the flight.”
He further suggests that cleaning old stickers off your luggage can help reduce any scanning confusion. “Old travel stickers can cause mix-ups when the bag is being scanned,” John noted.
Another surprising tip from John is to avoid packing marzipan. While it might seem harmless, marzipan could potentially lead to security red flags due to its density resembling that of certain explosives.
“Avoid putting marzipan in your checked luggage,” John advised. “Its density may trigger security alerts, resulting in your luggage being pulled from the plane for inspection.”
Finally, to minimize potential damage, John recommends placing your suitcase wheels-side-up before handing it over to baggage handlers.
Spice Up with Stylish Luggage
The world of luggage has expanded considerably, offering a range of colorful and patterned options beyond the ubiquitous black or navy suitcases of the past.
According to travel experts, choosing a suitcase in vibrant hues or distinctive patterns can make it easier to spot on the baggage carousel, eliminating the need for ribbons altogether. Bold colors like hot pink or bright blue could be just the ticket.
And if you’re not keen on swapping out your current luggage, there are alternative options available. Consider utilizing fabric paint or durable stickers to add your personal touch without affecting the official handling processes.
Thanks to these insightful tips from John, travelers can alleviate some travel-related stress and potentially ensure a smoother journey for both themselves and their luggage.
