Never Tie a Ribbon on Your Luggage: A Comprehensive Guide to Travel Convenience

When you’re at the airport, the anticipation of travel is often paired with a subtle yet persistent anxiety about your luggage. Watching a seemingly endless parade of identical suitcases on the baggage carousel can be an exercise in frustration. Many travelers attempt to personalize their bags with colorful ribbons, thinking it will make retrieval easier. However, experts warn that this common practice could create more problems than it solves.

In this article, we’ll delve into why you should never tie a ribbon on your luggage and explore alternative ways to ensure your suitcase stands out while adhering to airport best practices.

The Temptation of the Ribbon

The idea behind tying a ribbon to your luggage is simple: it’s a quick and easy way to make your bag identifiable among the sea of generic suitcases. However, Dublin Airport baggage handler John, speaking to RSVP Live, cautions that this popular trick can backfire in unexpected ways.

The Hidden Risks of Tying a Ribbon

1. Interference with Scanning

John explains that ribbons can cause issues during the automated scanning process in the baggage hall. If your bag cannot be scanned properly, it may require manual processing. This extra step could result in delays and even cause your luggage to miss your flight altogether.

“Ribbons that people tie onto their suitcases to help identify themhttps://www.iflscience.com/airport-worker-explains-why-you-should-never-tie-ribbons-to-your-luggage-74578#:~:text=This%20is%20because%20identifying%20tags,scanned%20in%20the%20baggage%20hall. can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall,” says John. “If the bag can’t be scanned automatically, it can end up in manual processing, which could mean your bag doesn’t make it to the flight.”

2. Added Stress on Conveyor Systems

Ribbons and other decorative elements can get caught in conveyor belts or scanning equipment. This not only puts your luggage at risk of damage but can also disrupt airport operations.

3. Potential for Confusion

Contrary to the intent of making your bag stand out, ribbons might actually cause confusion. A ribbon tied by a previous owner or airport personnel could easily resemble yours, leading to mistaken identity and the possibility of someone else taking your bag.

Best Practices for Bag Identification

To avoid these issues, here are some effective and airport-friendly alternatives:

1. Choose Unique Luggage

Invest in luggage that already stands out. Consider bold colors or patterned designs that make your suitcase easily identifiable without the need for additional markers. Bright colors like red, orange, or turquoise are less common and instantly noticeable on a baggage carousel.

2. Use Fabric Paint or Stickers

If you’re not ready to replace your existing luggage, customize it with fabric paint or durable stickers. These methods allow for personalization without interfering with scanning equipment.

3. Label Your Bag Clearly

Attach a sturdy luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address. For added security, use a tag with a privacy flap to keep your details hidden from prying eyes.

4. Protect Your Bag’s Integrity

Remove any old travel stickers or tags from previous trips. John notes that these outdated markers can confuse scanners and potentially delay your bag’s journey.

Additional Tips for Smooth Luggage Handling

1. Position Your Bag Correctly

When placing your suitcase on the check-in conveyor belt, ensure it is wheels-side up. This small step can help prevent damage to the bag’s wheels during handling.

2. Avoid Packing Prohibited Items

Be mindful of what you pack. For example, marzipan—a sugary almond treat—can trigger security alarms due to its density, which resembles certain explosives. Items like this can cause your bag to be flagged and subjected to additional searches, potentially delaying your flight.

Why This Advice Matters

Airports handle thousands of bags daily, and ensuring smooth operations requires cooperation from travelers. Small actions like avoiding ribbons and following recommended practices can make a significant difference in preventing delays and mishaps.

Conclusion

While tying a ribbon on your luggage may seem like a harmless way to make it stand out, the potential risks outweigh the benefits. From interfering with automated scanning systems to causing delays, this seemingly simple solution can complicate your travel experience. Instead, opt for airport-friendly identification methods such as unique luggage designs, custom stickers, or clear labeling.

Travel should be an exciting and stress-free experience. By taking proactive steps to ensure your luggage is easily identifiable and compliant with airport systems, you can avoid unnecessary hassles and focus on the journey ahead. The next time you pack for a trip, remember: leave the ribbon at home and embrace smarter alternatives for identifying your suitcase.