Have you ever thought about tying a bright ribbon to your luggage handle to make it stand out? You’re not alone—many travelers do this to spot their bags quickly in a busy airport. But, before you start decorating, here’s a bit of insight that could change your mind!
When flying, a common concern is identifying luggage quickly in the crowded baggage claim area, where countless bags look almost identical. This desire for easy recognition has led travelers to personalize their suitcases with things like ribbons, stickers, and tags. It seems like an easy solution, but it might actually cause unexpected trouble.
John, a baggage handler working at Dublin Airport, has seen the effects of these well-meaning decorations firsthand. While it makes sense to mark our luggage uniquely, John suggests that these accessories might create more problems than they solve, particularly when it comes to scanning the bags. His advice may save you some time, and perhaps even prevent a missed flight!
It’s easy to see why so many of us want our suitcases to stand out. Few things are as frustrating as watching the conveyor belt spin round and round, only to realize that your bag has either gone missing or looks exactly like the dozens of others making their way along. Some travelers take things a step further by attaching electronic devices, like a GoPro, to monitor their bag’s journey from one place to another. But as John warns, adding certain items to your luggage might have unintended consequences.
One common practice, tying a ribbon to the handle, can actually interfere with the automated scanning process. According to John, “If someone attaches a ribbon to their bag to make it identifiable, it could disrupt the scanning process at baggage claim.” This can be more than a minor issue: if the system fails to scan the bag properly, it might be set aside for manual processing, which increases the chance of it missing its connecting flight. The last thing anyone wants is to arrive at their destination only to realize their carefully packed belongings didn’t make it on board.
Imagine this scenario: the scanner can’t properly detect your suitcase because of that cute little ribbon tied on the handle, causing it to be overlooked and not loaded onto your flight. Missing a bag for something as minor as a ribbon might not seem likely, but as John highlights, it’s a very real possibility. Is it worth the risk for just a bit of decoration?
Beyond ribbons, there are other items on our suitcases that could use a second look. John recommends removing any old, expired travel stickers from your bag before your next flight. Many travelers like to keep these stickers as small souvenirs, reminders of past journeys. While these stickers are often sentimental, they can complicate things for both the scanning systems and the baggage handlers. When a scanner reads an old sticker with a different destination or flight code, it can cause confusion, potentially leading to delayed or even misplaced luggage. A clean, sticker-free suitcase allows for faster scanning, reducing the chance of mishaps.
John also shared a helpful tip on how to prevent damage to your suitcase: place it on the conveyor belt with the wheels facing up. By positioning the suitcase this way, you reduce wear and tear on the wheels, which can get damaged from getting caught in the machinery or when the bag is moved through automated handling systems. This small adjustment can help preserve the life of your luggage, keeping it functional for future trips.
One more consideration is for those with a sweet tooth or who enjoy baking. If you’re a fan of marzipan, it’s best not to pack it in your suitcase. Marzipan, made from sugar, ground almonds, and eggs, has a density similar to some explosive materials. Yes, you read that correctly! This density can trigger security alarms, potentially leading to an extensive inspection of your luggage. Security staff may even pull you aside to inspect your bags closely, which could delay you or, worst-case scenario, cause you to miss your flight. No one wants to end their travel plans over a piece of almond paste, right?
Think of the inconvenience and stress of having your baggage pulled for extra screening just because you packed a small block of marzipan. Missing a flight due to almond paste is not exactly the ideal start to any trip!
All these details add up to one main point: while it may be tempting to decorate your suitcase with personal touches like ribbons or stickers, it’s usually a better choice to keep things simple. This advice isn’t only about aesthetics; it’s about avoiding delays, confusion, and unnecessary issues during your travel. If you must pack specialty items like marzipan, consider putting them in your carry-on bag to avoid the hassle at checked baggage screening.
Ultimately, following these practical recommendations can make a big difference, leading to a smoother and less stressful travel experience. So, maybe leave those colorful ribbons and old travel stickers at home, and enjoy a hassle-free journey. Keeping your luggage free from decorative extras could mean the difference between a smooth vacation and an unexpected hold-up.
Here’s to safe, easy, and happy travels!
