Travelers warned not to tie ribbons on luggage

Traveling can be exhausting, especially when it comes to dealing with luggage. Many of us have experienced the frustration of trying to find our bags on a crowded conveyor belt.

To make their luggage stand out, people often tie colorful ribbons or strings to their suitcases. However, a luggage handler from Dublin Airport named John shares why this might not be the best idea.

Why Ribbons Can Cause Problems

John explains that ribbons and bows on suitcases can interfere with the scanning process in the baggage hall. If the automatic scanners can’t read the bag’s information, it may need to be manually processed, which can cause delays and even result in your luggage missing your flight.

Better Ways to Identify Your Luggage

To avoid this issue, John suggests using unique or personalized luggage. Bags with distinctive colors, patterns, or personalized designs are easier to recognize without affecting the scanning process. You can also use fabric paint or stickers to make your suitcase stand out.

Remove Old Labels

Another tip from John is to remove any old labels or tags from previous flights. These can confuse the electronic scanners and send your luggage to the wrong destination.

Handle Your Luggage with Care

John also advises travelers to place their luggage with the wheels facing up when weighing it or handing it off to airline staff. This helps protect the wheels from damage.

Unusual Items to Avoid Packing

Interestingly, John mentions that packing certain items like marzipan can cause problems. Because marzipan has a similar density to some explosives, it can trigger security alerts, leading to your luggage being searched and possibly removed from the plane.

Packing Tips from Experts

Apart from John’s insights, seasoned travelers and other experts offer additional packing advice. They recommend laying out all your items before packing to ensure you have everything you need and to avoid overpacking.

Soft Bags for Carry-On

While hard suitcases are preferred for checked luggage, soft bags are ideal for carry-ons. They are more flexible and easier to fit into overhead compartments. Having a few disposable or reusable bags can also help keep your belongings organized and protect them from any spills or dirt.

Roll, Don’t Fold

When it comes to packing clothes, rolling them instead of folding can save space and help keep your items organized. Rolling clothes together can also create more room in your suitcase.

Traveling with these tips in mind can help make your journey smoother and ensure your luggage arrives safely and on time.