If you’ve ever stood anxiously beside the baggage carousel at the airport, scanning dozens of nearly identical suitcases while hoping yours appears, you know how stressful that moment can be.
With so many travelers carrying similar luggage, it’s easy to see why people look for ways to make their bags stand out.
A very common trick is tying a colorful ribbon, scarf, or tag to the handle so it can be spotted quickly.
However, according to an experienced baggage handler at Dublin Airport, this simple habit might actually create unexpected problems during the baggage handling process.
Why ribbons can cause issues
John, who has worked for years in airport baggage operations, explains that while ribbons may help passengers recognize their luggage faster, they can interfere with the airport’s automated sorting systems.
Modern airports rely heavily on advanced baggage scanners and conveyor systems designed to move thousands of bags efficiently every hour.
These machines read barcode labels attached to luggage and direct each bag to the correct aircraft within seconds.
When extra items such as ribbons, straps, or decorative accessories are attached to the suitcase, they can sometimes block or confuse the scanning equipment.
If the scanner cannot clearly read the barcode tag, the system may reject the bag and send it for manual inspection.
Once a bag leaves the automated system, it must be handled by airport staff, which slows down the process significantly.
In busy travel periods, this can result in delays — and in rare cases, luggage might even miss the intended flight.
According to baggage handlers, this is one of the main reasons travelers are advised to avoid tying ribbons or similar objects to their luggage handles.
Surprising items that may trigger extra screening
Ribbons aren’t the only unexpected travel item that can cause complications at the airport. John also points out that certain foods packed in checked luggage can sometimes raise flags during security screening.
One unusual example is Marzipan. This sweet treat, made primarily from almonds and sugar, has a density that can appear similar to certain restricted materials on security scanners.
When airport security equipment detects objects with suspicious density levels, bags may be pulled aside for additional checks.
While there is nothing illegal about traveling with marzipan, the resemblance on scanner images can lead to longer inspection times and unnecessary delays.
For travelers rushing to catch connecting flights, this type of unexpected inspection can add stress to an already busy journey.
Better ways to identify your luggage
So how can travelers make their luggage easy to spot without interfering with airport systems?
Experts recommend choosing a suitcase that already stands out visually.
Instead of the traditional black or dark gray luggage that fills most carousels, selecting a bright or distinctive color can make a big difference.
Another creative option is personalizing your suitcase itself. Travelers often decorate their bags with stickers, patterned luggage covers, or custom paint designs.
These methods allow you to recognize your bag instantly without attaching anything that could interfere with scanning equipment.
Luggage covers, in particular, have become increasingly popular. They protect the suitcase while also making it unique and easy to identify from a distance.
Small travel tips that make a big difference
Airports handle millions of bags every year, and even small details can affect how smoothly luggage moves through the system.
By avoiding ribbons, loose straps, or unusual attachments, travelers can help ensure their bags pass through automated scanners without interruption.
Combined with smart packing and clear identification tags, these simple precautions can reduce the chances of delays or misplaced luggage.
In the end, a small change in how you mark your suitcase could make your entire travel experience smoother — helping your bag arriveafely and on time at your destination.
