Why You Should Think Twice Before Tying Ribbons to Your Luggage

Many travelers tie ribbons or strings to their suitcases to make them easier to spot at baggage claim. While this seems like a clever hack, a veteran baggage handler from Dublin Airport says it can actually cause problems.

John, with years of experience handling luggage, warns that these add-ons can get caught in conveyor belts or machines. “They might delay the system or even damage your bag,” he explains. Ribbons can cause slowdowns requiring manual fixes, increasing the risk of bags being lost or mishandled.

They’re also not the most reliable for identification—ribbons can fall off or look like someone else’s, leading to confusion at the carousel.

Instead, John recommends using luggage tags with clear contact info, choosing brightly colored bags, or adding durable stickers. If you still want a ribbon, keep it short and tightly secured to avoid issues during transit.