Extra tags create confusion, not clarity
Old luggage tags are one of the most common mistakes travelers make. Leaving outdated airline tags, hotel tags, or cruise labels on your suitcase can confuse scanners and staff alike.
Airline systems are designed to read a single, current barcode. When multiple tags are present, scanners may pick up the wrong one, sending your bag to the wrong destination. This is a leading cause of misrouted luggage, and it’s entirely preventable.
Airline employees often say that one of the easiest ways to protect your luggage is simply to remove every old tag before a new trip.
Decorative doesn’t mean durable
Another problem with ribbons and decorative add-ons is durability. Items tied on at home may seem secure, but they aren’t designed to withstand high-speed belts, drops, pressure, and constant friction.
When accessories tear off mid-journey, they can damage other bags, get stuck in machinery, or cause safety issues that delay hundreds of passengers. For airline staff, this turns a personal travel choice into an operational headache.
What airline staff actually recommend instead
If you want to identify your suitcase quickly without causing problems, airline staff recommend safer alternatives:
Choose a suitcase in a unique color or pattern instead of black or gray
Use a flat, sturdy luggage tag with clear contact information
Add a distinctive but built-in feature, such as colored wheels or a patterned shell
Place identification inside the suitcase as a backup
These options won’t interfere with baggage systems and are far less likely to cause delays or losses.
A small habit that makes a big difference
Most airline staff understand that travelers mean well. Ribbons, straps, and extra tags aren’t added out of carelessness—they’re added out of concern for lost luggage. But ironically, these accessories often increase the very risk travelers are trying to avoid.
By keeping your suitcase simple, streamlined, and scanner-friendly, you’re helping airport systems work as intended—and giving your bag the best chance of arriving exactly where you do.
Sometimes, the safest way to stand out… is not to stand out at all.
