If you’ve ever waited anxiously at an airport baggage carousel, scanning the endless loop of identical suitcases, you know how stressful it can be. Many travelers have taken to tying colorful ribbons to their luggage, hoping to make it stand out. However, a baggage handler from Dublin Airport, known as John, has a crucial warning: this seemingly harmless tip can lead to serious travel headaches.

The Dangers of Ribbons

While the intent behind using ribbons is to easily identify your suitcase, John explains that they can actually cause more problems than they solve. Tying a ribbon can interfere with the automatic scanning process of baggage handling systems. “Ribbons that people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall,” he stated. If a bag cannot be scanned automatically, it may end up in manual processing, resulting in delays that could cause your luggage to miss your flight altogether.

To ensure smooth processing, John recommends checking in your suitcase without any identifiers like ribbons or old travel stickers. “Take old stickers off the bag; it can cause confusion with the scanning process,” he advises.

Beware of Marzipan

Another surprising tip from John involves packing marzipan. While this delicious almond treat may be a favorite among travelers, its density is similar to that of some explosives. “Don’t ever pack marzipan in your luggage,” John cautioned. Doing so could lead to your bag being flagged for a security search, and you might even be called off the plane for further inspection.

Protecting Your Luggage

Before sending your bag down the conveyor belt, ensure it’s wheels side up to avoid damage during handling. This small adjustment can make a big difference in the condition of your suitcase upon arrival.

Choosing the Right Luggage

Gone are the days of bland black or brown luggage. Travel experts recommend choosing a suitcase in a vibrant color or a unique pattern to help it stand out in the crowd. Travel & Leisure suggests that black luggage, while versatile, can blend in too easily. Instead, consider options in bold colors like hot pink or patterned designs. If you prefer to keep your current bags, you can use fabric paint or stickers to add distinguishing features that won’t interfere with the scanning process.

By following these tips from a seasoned baggage handler, travelers can alleviate some of the stress that often accompanies air travel. What other strategies do you have for avoiding airport mishaps? Share your thoughts, and help spread the word so others can travel smarter!