Baggage Handler Reveals Why You Should Never Tie a Ribbon on Your Luggage

Baggage Handler Reveals Why You Should Never Tie a Ribbon on Your Luggage

Traveling can be stressful, and many passengers go to great lengths to ensure their luggage is easily identifiable on the baggage carousel. One popular method is tying a colorful ribbon or bow around the handle of a suitcase. While it may seem like a simple and effective way to make your bag stand out, a seasoned baggage handler has revealed why this practice could actually do more harm than good.

The Problem with Ribbons

According to baggage handlers, ribbons—no matter how eye-catching—pose several risks that travelers might not consider:

1. Ribbons Can Get Caught in Machinery
   Airports are equipped with complex conveyor belt systems designed to transport luggage safely from check-in counters to airplanes and back again. However, loose items like ribbons can easily get snagged in the machinery. “A ribbon might seem harmless, but it can wrap around gears or rollers, causing delays and potential damage to both the system and the luggage,” explains one veteran baggage handler. This not only disrupts operations but also increases the likelihood of mishandling your bag.
2. Increased Risk of Damage
   When a ribbon gets caught, it often leads to rough handling as ground staff attempt to free the luggage. In some cases, bags have been torn open or damaged during these efforts. Even if the ribbon doesn’t cause mechanical issues, its presence can make loading and unloading more cumbersome for handlers who are working under tight schedules.
3. Confusion Among Travelers
   While personalizing your luggage is important, using a ribbon can ironically create confusion rather than clarity. “People think they’re making their bag unique, but then someone else ties a similar ribbon on theirs,” says the baggage handler. With so many travelers adopting the same tactic, what was meant to differentiate your suitcase can instead lead to mix-ups at the baggage claim.
4. Security Concerns
   Ribbons can also raise red flags during security checks. Some airport scanners may flag them as suspicious objects, leading to additional inspections. This not only slows down processing times but also increases the chances of your belongings being handled by multiple personnel, raising privacy concerns.

Better Alternatives to Identify Your Luggage

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