Why You Should Stop Tying Ribbons to Your Luggage
Anyone who has stood at an airport baggage carousel knows the tense moment of watching bag after bag roll past, all looking more or less the same. To make their suitcases easier to recognize, many travelers tie bright ribbons, scarves, or tags to the handles.
However, a baggage handler at Dublin Airport says this popular luggage hack can actually cause more problems than it solves.
How Ribbons Can Disrupt Baggage Scanning
John, who works in baggage handling, explains that decorative ribbons can interfere with the automated systems that read and sort checked bags.
According to him, “The ribbons that people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall.”
When the scanner can’t properly read a bag’s tag or barcode because something is in the way, that suitcase may have to be pulled aside and handled manually. This slows down the entire process and increases the chances of:
- Delays in getting your luggage onto the aircraft
- Your bag missing the flight altogether
- Longer waiting times at the destination carousel
In other words, a small piece of ribbon meant to help you spot your suitcase quickly could contribute to it not arriving on time.
What Not to Pack: The Marzipan Warning
John also shares another unexpected piece of advice: be very careful about packing marzipan in your suitcase.
“Don’t ever pack marzipan in your luggage. It has the same density as some explosives,” he says.
Because security screening equipment looks at density and composition rather than just appearance, marzipan can resemble certain prohibited substances on the scanner. That can lead to:
- Your bag being flagged for additional security checks
- Extra screening and delays
- Possible opening and inspection of your luggage
While marzipan isn’t dangerous, it can trigger alarms and slow down your journey.
Safer Ways to Make Your Suitcase Stand Out
You don’t have to give up on identifying your bag easily—just choose options that don’t interfere with airport technology. Instead of tying ribbons to your luggage, consider:
- Buying a suitcase in a bright or unusual color so it’s easy to spot on the carousel
- Using fabric paint or permanent markers to add a distinctive pattern or initials
- Adding bold, flat stickers or decals that don’t dangle or cover the bag tag
- Choosing a unique luggage strap that stays clear of barcodes and scanning areas
Make sure any personalization stays away from the airline tag and the areas where barcodes are placed.
Travel Smarter to Avoid Airport Hassles
By skipping ribbons, avoiding items like marzipan that confuse scanners, and choosing smarter ways to customize your luggage, you can:
- Reduce the risk of baggage handling delays
- Lower the chance of your suitcase missing the flight
- Help ensure your bags arrive smoothly at your destination
A few small changes to how you mark and pack your suitcase can make your entire airport experience less stressful and more efficient.
