When
it comes to travel, few things are more frustrating than a delayed or lost
suitcase. Many seasoned travelers have developed tricks to make their bags
stand out at the baggage claim—often tying colorful ribbons or straps to them
for easy identification.
But
according to a seasoned baggage handler, this seemingly harmless habit could
cause more problems than it solves. Here's why your trusty ribbon might be
doing more harm than good—and what to do instead.
The
Hidden Risks of Ribbons on Suitcases
Imagine
this: you've just arrived at your destination, eager to begin your trip. As you
wait at the baggage carousel, your eyes scan for your suitcase adorned with
that bright ribbon or strap. But what if that very ribbon is the reason your
luggage didn't make it onto the flight?
John,
a long-time baggage handler at Dublin Airport, recently shed light on a
surprising issue that travelers rarely consider. In an interview with RSVP Live,
he explained that ribbons, straps, or other personalized markers can interfere
with the automated systems that process luggage in airports.
“Ribbons
that people attach for easy identification can block the scanner, causing the
bag to be processed manually. This delay might prevent the luggage from making
it onto the flight,” John revealed.
Modern
airports rely heavily on automated systems to sort and route luggage
efficiently. These systems use a series of conveyor belts and scanners to
identify and direct suitcases to the correct flight. But when a ribbon or strap
gets caught or blocks the scanner, the entire process can grind to a halt.
How
to Ensure Your Luggage Stays on Track
While
it's understandable to want your suitcase to stand out in a sea of black and
gray bags, there are safer ways to achieve this without risking delays. Here
are a few tips to make your luggage identifiable while keeping it travel-ready:
1.
Opt for Unique Luggage Designs:
Consider investing in a suitcase with a bold color or unique pattern. Brightly
colored luggage is easy to spot and doesn’t interfere with airport machinery.
2.
Use Luggage Tags:
High-quality, durable luggage tags with your contact information are a must.
Choose tags that are securely attached and made from materials that won't get
tangled or caught.
3.
Avoid Old Stickers:
If your suitcase still sports tags or stickers from previous trips, remove
them. Outdated labels can confuse automated scanners and send your bag to the
wrong destination.
4.
Stick with Subtle Identifiers:
If you must add a personal touch, choose small and secure options like stickers
or adhesive patches. Avoid loose items like ribbons or straps that can get
caught.
Surprising
Items That Can Delay Luggage
Ribbons
aren’t the only potential culprits when it comes to baggage delays. Here are a
few other common items that might cause issues:
- Edible Goods: Packing certain
foods, like marzipan or fruit, can trigger additional screening. These items
resemble explosives on scanners and may lead to manual inspections.
- Battery-Powered Devices: Unchecked
electronics with lithium batteries can cause delays if not packed properly.
- Overloaded Bags: Overstuffed
suitcases with protruding zippers or uneven surfaces can jam conveyor belts,
slowing the process for everyone.
A
Small Change for Big Peace of Mind
While
tying a ribbon to your suitcase might seem like a harmless way to personalize
your travel gear, it’s worth reconsidering this practice. A little extra
thought when packing can save you the headache of delayed luggage—and ensure
your journey gets off to a smooth start.
Next time you're preparing for a trip, try these tips to keep your bags efficient, identifiable, and on schedule. Safe travels!
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