When traveling, it’s common to want your luggage to stand out, especially when it comes to identifying your bag in a sea of similar-looking suitcases at baggage claim.
Many of us opt to tie colorful ribbons, attach quirky tags, or plaster travel stickers on our bags. But according to John, a seasoned baggage handler at Dublin Airport, this well-meaning practice might actually lead to issues that can cause your luggage to be delayed or even misplaced.
So before you decorate your suitcase, here’s why you should think twice.
The Need for Personalizing Your Luggage
Let’s face it—finding your suitcase on a crowded luggage carousel can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s why so many travelers opt for ribbons, tags, and stickers to make their bags more recognizable.
Personalizing your luggage helps prevent mix-ups and ensures your belongings don’t end up with someone else. Some tech-savvy travelers even go as far as attaching a GoPro to their suitcase to track its journey!
But while these decorations may seem harmless, John offers a critical insight into how they can sometimes backfire.
The Real Problem with Ribbons and Decorations
As much as a ribbon might help you spot your bag more easily, John warns that it could disrupt the baggage scanning process.
Airport scanners are designed to quickly process large volumes of luggage, and anything that interferes with this—like ribbons or tags that obstruct the barcode—can cause issues.
If the scanner fails to read the tag correctly, your bag may not get processed automatically, leading to manual handling. And when that happens, there’s a chance your suitcase could miss your flight altogether.
Imagine the frustration of having your luggage held back simply because the scanning system couldn’t detect the barcode due to a decorative ribbon. It’s a risk most travelers would rather avoid.
Old Stickers Can Also Cause Delays
Another key tip from John is to remove any expired stickers from previous trips. Old stickers can confuse automated systems, as outdated barcodes might get scanned instead of the current ones.
This mix-up can result in delays or, worse, your luggage being sent to the wrong destination. While travel stickers can be sentimental, it’s best to clean up your suitcase to ensure a smooth journey.
The Importance of Properly Positioning Your Baggage
Beyond avoiding ribbons and stickers, John shared another practical tip: always place your suitcase with the wheels facing upwards. This small adjustment can protect the wheels from damage during transport, ensuring your suitcase arrives in good condition. It’s an easy fix that helps prolong the life of your luggage and ensures a hassle-free experience.
The Hidden Danger of Marzipan in Your Luggage
Are you a fan of baking or love bringing sweets home from your travels? If so, you may want to avoid packing marzipan in your suitcase. According to John, marzipan—a sweet treat made from sugar, almonds, and eggs—has a density that resembles certain explosives.
Yes, you read that right. This can trigger security alarms, leading to a detailed inspection of your bag, which could cause significant delays or even make you miss your flight.
Think about the inconvenience of having your luggage subjected to extra screenings just because of a small amount of almond paste. It’s certainly not worth the trouble, and it could derail your entire travel plan.
How to Make Sure Your Luggage Arrives Smoothly
To ensure your suitcase arrives at your destination without delay, here’s a quick checklist based on John’s expert advice:
- Avoid ribbons and decorations: While they may help your bag stand out, they can interfere with airport scanners and delay your luggage.
- Remove old stickers: Clear away any outdated travel stickers to prevent scanning errors.
- Position your suitcase properly: Place it with the wheels facing upwards to protect your luggage during transport.
- Be mindful of what you pack: Avoid packing marzipan or other dense items that may trigger security concerns.
By following these simple tips, you can reduce the risk of lost or delayed luggage and enjoy a smoother travel experience.
Conclusion: Keep Your Suitcase Simple and Travel Hassle-Free
While personalizing your luggage might seem like a smart way to make it easier to spot, it’s worth reconsidering this habit. Ribbons and old stickers can cause unnecessary problems at the baggage claim, potentially delaying your luggage or causing it to be left behind.
Instead, keep your suitcase clean and simple to ensure a smooth journey. And when it comes to packing, avoid any items that could raise red flags at security, such as marzipan.
So, leave the ribbons and stickers at home, follow these helpful tips from a seasoned baggage handler, and have a safe and stress-free trip!
