You’ve probably seen, and maybe even adopted, this trick: attaching a colorful ribbon to your suitcase so it’s easy to spot on the baggage claim carousel.

This seems like a practical idea, especially when all the suitcases look the same.

However, the baggage handler warns against this habit, which can cause serious inconvenience.

Behind the scenes at airports

Behind the scenes, airports are automated to handle the massive baggage flow. From the moment you check in, bags pass through automated sorting and scanning systems to ensure they’re on the right plane. However, a simple ribbon can disrupt everything.

John, an experienced baggage handler at Dublin Airport, explains that ribbons or anything else attached to a suitcase can prevent the machines from scanning your luggage properly.

Result?

Your suitcase is put aside and must be processed manually.

It may not be loaded onto the plane in time.

It may arrive late, sometimes several days later.

In the worst-case scenario, your luggage could be lost forever, joining the long list of lost suitcases that airlines struggle to return.

Risk of delay or loss of luggage

Every year, thousands of suitcases don’t arrive at their destinations on time. In France, approximately 7.6 pieces of luggage are lost for every 1,000 passengers on international flights.

Reasons?

Sorting errors caused by incompatible items attached to suitcases.

Overloaded baggage, forcing airlines to reassign some baggage to other flights.

Connections too short, which means no time to hand over luggage.

How to avoid losing your suitcase?

Instead of tying a ribbon, here are some safer alternatives:

Choose a colorful suitcase or a unique design to make it easy to recognize.

Use an ID badge securely attached to the holder, with your contact information.

Choose protective covers to personalize your luggage without the risk of it being blocked by the scanner.

Track your suitcase with AirTag or a GPS tracker to know where it is in real time.

One last tip:

To maximize your chances, avoid checking valuables into your checked luggage. Keep important documents, electronic devices, and anything else you might need in case your suitcase is delayed.

Application

What seems like a simple, practical gesture can actually result in delays or loss of luggage. To avoid this inconvenience, it’s best to choose safer solutions, approved by airline professionals. Next time you fly, forget about the ribbon and travel with peace of mind.