Baggage handler reveals why you should never tie a ribbon on your luggage

If you’ve ever found yourself anxiously scanning the baggage carousel at an airport, you’ll know the frustration of trying to spot your suitcase among hundreds of nearly identical ones. It’s a common scene, and many travelers have tried to solve this problem by tying ribbons or attaching other markers to their luggage, hoping to make it easier to identify.

However, an airport worker is now cautioning passengers that these personal touches might bring about more problems than they solve.

Read on to discover why using ribbons on your luggage might not be the best idea, and why packing marzipan could lead to unexpected delays!

The fear of losing luggage haunts even the most experienced travelers. To avoid the nightmare of another passenger mistakenly taking their bag—or the annoyance of repeatedly watching their suitcase circle the conveyor belt—many people have started attaching colorful ribbons to their bags. While this seems like a clever solution, a baggage handler from Dublin Airport, known as John, warns that it could actually backfire.

Speaking to RSVP Live, John explained that these identifying ribbons can cause significant delays, potentially leading to your luggage missing the flight altogether. “Ribbons tied onto suitcases can interfere with the scanning process in the baggage hall,” John shared. “If a bag can’t be scanned automatically, it might have to be processed manually, which increases the risk of it not making it onto the plane.”

John also advised removing any old travel stickers from your luggage, as they can cause similar issues during scanning. “Taking off old stickers can prevent confusion and help ensure your bag reaches its destination without a hitch,” he added.

Another surprising item to avoid packing is marzipan, the sugary almond confection. According to John, marzipan’s density resembles that of certain explosives, which could lead to your bag being flagged by security. “Never pack marzipan in your luggage,” he warned. “Your bag might be removed, and you could even be called off the plane for a bag search.”

Before handing your suitcase over to airport staff, John recommends placing it wheels-side up on the conveyor belt to minimize the risk of damage.

Gone are the days when basic black, brown, or navy luggage was your only option. According to Travel & Leisure, black is the most popular luggage color because of its versatility, but this also makes it harder to spot on the carousel. To stand out, consider choosing a suitcase in a bold color, like hot pink, or opt for a unique pattern. If you’re not ready to replace your current luggage, fabric paint or stickers can help personalize your bag without interfering with the scanning process.

The tips from this Dublin Airport baggage handler could save travelers around the world from unnecessary stress. So, next time you pack for a trip, consider leaving the ribbon at home and opting for a standout suitcase instead!