Why You Should Never Tie a Ribbon on Your Luggage (According to a Baggage Handler)
A veteran baggage handler recently revealed a little-known airport security risk: that innocent-looking ribbon you tie on your suitcase to spot it easily? It could make your bag a target for theft, damage, or even accidental destruction. Here’s why:
1. Ribbons Can Get Caught in Conveyor Belts & Machinery
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Loose ribbons, straps, or dangling tags can snag in baggage carousels, sorting machines, or airplane cargo loaders.
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Result? Ripped handles, torn zippers, or even a bag pulled into machinery and destroyed.
2. Makes Your Bag a Target for Theft
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A unique ribbon (especially a bright one) flags your bag as “high-value” to thieves scanning luggage.
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Criminals assume travelers who mark bags may have expensive items inside.
3. Confuses Automated Scanning Systems
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Some airport scanners use AI to detect suspicious shapes—a flapping ribbon might trigger a false alarm, leading to unnecessary manual checks or delays.
4. The “Ribbon Trick” Is Outdated
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Many travelers copy the old tip of tying ribbons to ID their bag, so now half the suitcases have them—defeating the purpose!
What to Use Instead of a Ribbon
✔ Unique luggage straps (hard to replicate, less likely to snag).
✔ Distinctive stickers or patches (flat, no snag risk).
✔ Bright-colored duct tape (applied neatly in a unique pattern).
✔ GPS trackers (like Apple AirTag or Tile) for real-time tracking.
Pro Tip from Baggage Handlers
“If you must use a ribbon, tie it tightly around the handle—never let it dangle. Better yet, just remember your bag’s brand/color combo!”
Bottom line: Skip the ribbon—opt for flat, secure identifiers to keep your luggage safe and avoid delays.
Safe travels! ✈️
P.S. Want a hack for preventing lost luggage? Ask me about the “inside-out tag” trick!
