Many travelers tie ribbons or fabric strips to the handle of their suitcase, believing it will help them spot their bag faster. But baggage scanners often interpret these additions as irregular shapes.
If the system can’t clearly scan the luggage tag or the bag doesn’t move smoothly through the conveyor, it may be flagged for manual handling. While that sounds harmless, manual handling means your bag takes longer to process and increases the chance it won’t make it onto the plane in time—especially during tight connections.
Straps that wrap around the suitcase are another issue. If they loosen or shift, they can jam equipment or trigger safety stops, which airport staff must resolve immediately.
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 Leaving outdated airline tags, hotel tags, or cruise labels on your suitcase can confuse scanners and staff alike.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
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