Avoid Tying Accessories to Your Suitcases: A Baggage Handler’s Insight

Baggage Handler’s Advice: Skip the Ribbon on Your Luggage

As you embark on your much-anticipated holiday, brightening your suitcase so it’s easy to spot might seem like a great idea. However, a baggage handler from Dublin Airport has a different perspective, suggesting that decoration might create challenges.

In an attempt to prevent mix-ups and potential vacation hiccups, travelers often embellish their baggage with unique accessories. Ensuring that your luggage stands out is certainly tempting, especially when you imagine a chaotic conveyor belt full of similar-looking bags. The idea is to avoid the dreaded scenario of embarking on a trip with nothing but a spare pair of socks.

We’ve all experienced it—shopping for essentials at the hotel gift shop and piecing together an ensemble from limited options. So, who can blame anyone for wanting their bags to be easily recognizable? Some travelers even attach high-tech gadgets, like a GoPro, to monitor their luggage’s adventures behind the scenes.

Adding ribbons, stickers, or personalized tags has become a ritual for many travelers hoping to quickly spot their suitcase as it emerges from the depths of the baggage claim.

However, John, a seasoned baggage handler from Dublin Airport, warns that such personal touches might backfire. Instead of smooth sailing to your holiday destination, these embellishments might cause your luggage to miss the flight altogether.

John explains, “Ribbons or any such items can interfere with the automatic scanning process in the baggage hall. If the scanning is disrupted, your bag might need manual handling, which increases the risk of it being left behind.”

Moreover, old travel stickers should be removed, as they might also confuse the scanning systems.

Sharing further wisdom, John advises travelers to always position their suitcases wheels up during check-in. This simple tip helps prevent unnecessary damage.

A surprising caution is to avoid packing Marzipan. For baking enthusiasts, this might come as a surprise, but the density of Marzipan is akin to certain explosives, prompting security checks that could delay you and your luggage.

If you’re considering celebrating with homemade treats, it may be wise to find an alternative that’s less likely to raise suspicions at the airport. Missing out on your vacation just because of Marzipan certainly isn’t ideal.

In essence, to ensure your luggage accompanies you on your journey, it would be wise to skip the ribbons and be cautious with what items you pack. A hassle-free flight sets the stage for a wonderful vacation.