After a long, tiring day of travel, collecting your luggage can feel like a small battle. With so many similar suitcases circling the conveyor belt, it’s easy to grab the wrong one. To avoid confusion, many travelers tie colorful ribbons or strings around their bags for quick identification — but according to one airline employee, this popular trick might actually cause problems.
A Luggage Handler’s Warning
John, a baggage handler at Dublin Airport, recently shared insights from his experience working behind the scenes. One of his biggest tips? Avoid tying ribbons or bows to your suitcase. “The ribbons people use to identify their bags can cause issues when luggage is scanned,” John explained. “If the bag can’t be processed automatically, it might have to be handled manually — and that could mean it won’t make it onto your flight.”
Few things are more frustrating than waiting at baggage claim only to discover your suitcase didn’t arrive. John suggests a better alternative: invest in distinctive or personalized luggage that’s easy to spot without obstructing scanners. You can also decorate your bag with stickers or fabric paint — they’ll add color and character without interfering with airport systems.
Other Smart Travel Tips
John also advised travelers to remove old airline tags before checking in again. “Leftover labels can confuse scanners and send your bag to the wrong destination,” he warned.
Another overlooked detail involves how you position your suitcase before check-in. Most travelers set their bags down with the wheels on the bottom, but John recommends flipping them so the wheels face up — this helps prevent damage during handling.
And then there’s one unexpected warning: don’t pack marzipan in your checked luggage. “Marzipan has a density similar to some explosives,” John said. “It could trigger alarms and lead to a full security inspection.”
Packing Smarter, Not Heavier
Travel experts agree that organization is key to efficient packing. Lay everything out before you start to ensure your outfits match and you’re not overpacking. Rolling clothes instead of folding them saves space and reduces wrinkles, while small bags — such as zip-top or reusable fabric pouches — help separate items like jewelry, electronics, or dirty clothes.
While hard-shell suitcases are best for checked baggage, soft bags are ideal for carry-ons because they’re easier to fit into overhead compartments. And if you want to go eco-friendly, consider using reusable storage bags instead of disposable plastic ones.
In the end, the goal is simple: travel light, travel smart, and make sure your luggage arrives with you — ribbons or not.