Have you ever tied a colorful ribbon to your suitcase to make it stand out at baggage claim? It sounds like a clever hack, but it might be doing more harm than good. According to John, a seasoned baggage handler at Dublin Airport, this popular trick could actually disrupt your travel plans.
Decorating your luggage with ribbons, tags, or stickers is common practice for avoiding mix-ups in a sea of identical black bags. Some travelers even attach gadgets like GoPros to track their luggage. But John has a warning: That ribbon could cost you your flight.
“If a ribbon interferes with the automated scanning process,” John explains, “your bag might need manual handling. And if that happens, there’s a chance it won’t make it onto your flight.”
The same goes for those old travel stickers you’ve been meaning to remove. They might bring back fond memories of past adventures, but outdated stickers can confuse scanners and delay your bag—or worse, send it to the wrong destination.
Here’s another tip straight from the pros: always check in your suitcase with the wheels facing up. This simple step can prevent wheel damage during handling, saving your luggage from unnecessary wear and tear.
And for the sweet-toothed travelers out there, take note: avoid packing marzipan. This dense almond treat might seem harmless, but its texture is suspiciously similar to certain explosives. Airport scanners can flag it for a detailed inspection, leading to delays—and possibly missing your flight over a snack.
So, before your next trip, think twice about personalizing your luggage or packing that dessert. Stick to John’s advice, and you’ll be set for a smoother, stress-free journey.
Do you have any quirky travel tips to share? Drop them in the comments or share this article with a fellow traveler!
