If you’ve ever found yourself anxiously waiting at the baggage carousel, desperately hoping to spot your suitcase among the sea of identical ones, you know the frustration and stress. Many savvy travelers have resorted to tying colorful ribbons to their bags to make them easily distinguishable. However, according to a Dublin Airport baggage handler named John, this common trick might do more harm than good. In this article, we’ll explore John’s valuable insights on why you should leave the ribbon at home and discover other tips for hassle-free travel.
Avoid the Ribbon Hassle
John explains that attaching ribbons and other distinguishing markers to your luggage can cause delays and even result in your belongings missing the flight altogether. When bags with ribbons cannot be automatically scanned, they end up in manual processing, leading to potential mishaps. John advises removing old travel stickers and ribbons from your bags to prevent confusion during the scanning process. By checking in your suitcase without any identifiers, you increase the chances of an easy and seamless journey.
Another unexpected item that can cause trouble with airport security is marzipan. Due to its density, marzipan has a similar signature to some explosives, which may lead to your bag being flagged for additional scrutiny. To avoid unnecessary hassles and delays, it’s best to leave the marzipan at home or consume it prior to your journey.
Lastly, be mindful of how you place your luggage on the conveyor belt. To prevent any damage, make sure that the wheels are facing up. This simple step can help ensure the safety of your belongings.
Embrace Vibrant and Unique Luggage
Gone are the days of basic black, brown, or navy suitcases. Modern luggage options offer a variety of patterns and vibrant colors that can make your belongings stand out without the need for ribbons. By opting for suitcases in bold colors or unique patterns, you eliminate the maddening search for your bag among a sea of monotonous ones. According to Travel & Leisure, black is a versatile color, but if you want your luggage to be easily identifiable, consider opting for a suitcase in a bold color like hot pink or a suitcase with an eye-catching pattern.
If you’re not ready to part with your current luggage, fear not. You can use fabric paint or stickers to add personal touches that won’t interfere with scanning processes. This way, you can have a visually distinctive bag while still maintaining its functionality.
John’s tips from his experience as a Dublin Airport baggage handler are sure to alleviate some stress for travelers worldwide. Do you have any additional tips to share? We’d love to hear your thoughts and stories. Don’t forget to share this article to help others travel hassle-free.
