For many travelers, tying a ribbon to a suitcase handle seems like a clever idea. It is a quick way to spot your bag among hundreds on the luggage carousel and can even add a touch of personality.
However, travel experts are warning that this seemingly harmless habit could cause more problems than it solves.
While the colorful bow might make your luggage stand out, it could also slow down your journey, lead to extra security checks, and even put your belongings at risk.
If you are someone who is planning your next holiday, here is why you should think twice before adding that decorative ribbon to your suitcase.
The Hidden Delay Factor
Airport security is stricter than ever. Baggage handling procedures are designed for speed and efficiency.
A ribbon tied to your luggage might seem small, but if it gets caught in conveyor belts or scanning machines, it can cause delays.
Some baggage systems automatically flag items with loose attachments for manual inspection, meaning your suitcase could take longer to arrive on the carousel.
Baggage handlers also have to deal with tight schedules. If a ribbon gets tangled or obstructs a tag, it may require extra time to fix or re-label your bag. In the worst cases, it could miss the intended flight connection.
A Target for Thieves
Another problem is that a ribbon can unintentionally draw attention to your luggage. Criminals at airports are skilled at spotting bags that look distinctive and could belong to tourists.
A unique ribbon, tag, or charm makes it easier for them to identify and follow your suitcase, increasing the risk of theft or tampering.
Some travelers even choose ribbons as a sign that their luggage is theirs without thinking about the fact that anyone could remove or replace it.
If someone else ties a similar ribbon to their bag, it can create confusion and make it easier for them to walk away with your belongings unnoticed.
Security and Customs Concerns
In certain airports, customs and security teams are extra cautious about unidentified objects on luggage.
A ribbon or bow might be harmless, but it can still lead to your suitcase being pulled aside for inspection. This is especially true for international travel, where every unusual detail can raise questions.
The process of opening, checking, and re-closing your bag takes time. It may even result in misplaced items if it is not handled carefully. That little ribbon could turn into a much bigger inconvenience than expected.
Baggage Tag Interference
Modern airports use automated systems to scan baggage tags. A dangling ribbon near the handle can sometimes cover or block part of the barcode, making it harder for scanners to read. This can lead to routing errors where your suitcase ends up in the wrong place.
Even if the ribbon is nowhere near the tag, the motion of the conveyor belt can shift it during handling.
One small obstruction could be enough to make the difference between your bag arriving with you or ending up in another city.
Alternative Ways to Spot Your Luggage
If the main reason you tie a ribbon to your bag is to make it stand out, there are safer alternatives that experts recommend:
- Opt for a distinctive suitcase color or pattern. Bright colors or unique designs help travelers spot their luggage easily without risking anything getting caught in baggage systems.
- Use a personalized luggage cover. These not only make your suitcase stand out but also add an extra layer of protection against scratches and dirt.
- Buy a high-quality luggage tag. Choose one with a durable strap and keep it close to the handle so it does not interfere with scanning.
- Mark your suitcase discreetly inside. Add a label with your name and contact details inside the bag in case the external tag is lost.
The Verdict from Travel Experts
Tying a ribbon to your luggage might be a habit you have relied on for years. The reality is that it can cause more harm than good.
From slowing down baggage handling to making your bag a potential target for theft, the risks outweigh the benefits.
Travel experts agree that there are smarter ways to identify your luggage without creating security issues.
Investing in a distinctive suitcase or secure identification method is a small step that can save you from delays, confusion, or even loss of belongings.
As tempting as it is to give your suitcase a personal touch, it is worth remembering that airports are high-traffic, high-security environments.
The less there is to catch, snag, or raise suspicion, the smoother your journey will be.
So next time you pack for a holiday, leave the ribbon at home and choose a safer alternative. Your trip will be easier and your luggage will be safer.
You will be more likely to see your suitcase waiting for you exactly where it should be.
