Travel Experts Reveal: Why That Ribbon on Your Luggage Could Ruin Your Trip!

Air travel has its fair share of stressors—from canceled flights to long security lines—but one of the most nerve-wracking moments for any traveler comes at baggage claim. Watching endless identical suitcases spin on the carousel while wondering if yours will appear (and in one piece) is a universal experience. To make it easier to spot their bags, many people have adopted a simple trick: tying a colorful ribbon, tag, or scarf to the handle.

While it might seem like a clever hack to avoid baggage confusion, travel experts are now warning against this widely-used practice. It turns out, that little ribbon may do more harm than good.

The Common Belief: Ribbons Make Bags Easier to Identify

At first glance, the idea makes perfect sense. Airports are a sea of black and navy-blue suitcases. A bright ribbon or decorative accessory helps your bag stand out instantly. Instead of anxiously inspecting each bag, travelers can easily grab the one with the hot pink bow or neon scarf tied to the handle.

This trick has been a go-to method for years, even recommended by frequent flyers and seasoned vacationers. However, behind the scenes at airports, luggage handlers and security personnel have a different perspective—and it’s not in favor of ribbons.

Why Experts Advise Against Ribbons and Accessories

According to several airport employees and travel professionals, there are key reasons why adding ribbons, scarves, or tags to your luggage might actually cause problems:

1. Risk of Damage to Your Bag

Airport baggage systems involve conveyor belts, automated sorting machines, and sometimes rough handling. Anything loose hanging from your suitcase can easily get caught in the machinery. This doesn’t just risk damaging the ribbon—it can also jam the conveyor system, tear zippers, or even rip the handle off your bag.

One travel expert shared:
“I’ve seen countless ribbons get tangled in conveyors, leading to the bag being pulled aside, delayed, or worse, damaged. It might seem harmless, but it causes significant issues behind the scenes.”

2. Security Delays

Airports operate under strict security protocols. Unusual attachments on luggage—especially ones that conceal parts of the bag—may trigger additional inspections. Security agents might be required to remove ribbons, tags, or other accessories to ensure nothing is hidden underneath. This can delay your bag’s arrival at the carousel or result in missing items.

3. A Target for Thieves

Bright ribbons or identifiers can sometimes make your luggage stand out for the wrong reasons. Experienced thieves may target bags with visible accessories, assuming they belong to tourists or contain valuable items. It’s better not to draw unnecessary attention.

4. Confusion Rather Than Clarity

Ironically, the more common this trick becomes, the less effective it is. Many travelers use ribbons, so you may still end up with several bags featuring similar markers. Worse, someone else may mistake your bag for theirs if it has a distinctive but non-unique identifier.

Smarter Alternatives for Identifying Your Luggage

Fortunately, there are better, safer ways to make sure you can easily spot your suitcase without risking damage, delays, or confusion.

1. Opt for a Unique Suitcase

Instead of relying on external markers, consider investing in a suitcase with a distinctive color, pattern, or design. Brands offer a wide variety of bright, non-traditional options. A bold red, a floral print, or even a custom luggage cover can help you find your bag quickly.

2. Use Durable Luggage Tags

A high-quality, securely fastened luggage tag is essential. Opt for sturdy plastic or metal tags that won’t tear off easily during transit. Include your name, contact information, and destination address inside the tag—not visibly outside—for added privacy.

3. Add Internal Identification

For added security, always place a copy of your ID and contact info inside the bag. In case external tags get removed or lost, airline staff can still identify the owner.

4. Tech-Savvy Solutions

Consider using GPS luggage trackers, like Apple AirTags or Tile devices. These small gadgets can be hidden inside your bag and synced with your phone, allowing you to track your suitcase in real time—a much more reliable method than relying on ribbons.

What Travel Experts Say

A former baggage handler shared:
“We understand why people want to mark their bags. But honestly, we recommend using luggage that’s unique in itself or using durable, minimal tags. Extra accessories like ribbons can backfire.”

Another travel advisor noted:
“When traveling internationally, customs officers may take extra time to inspect anything unusual tied to bags. Keeping it simple speeds up the process.”

Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Travel Safe

While the colorful ribbon trick might seem like a convenient solution to a common problem, it’s not without its risks. Instead of attaching accessories that could potentially delay or damage your luggage, opt for safer, smarter identification strategies. Whether it’s investing in a distinct suitcase, using durable tags, or leveraging technology, there are plenty of effective ways to ensure your belongings arrive safely and are easily recognizable—without the need for a ribbon.

So next time you pack for a trip, skip the bow and choose a method that keeps both your luggage and your peace of mind intact.