If you’ve ever anxiously scanned the baggage carousel at the airport, you know the stress of finding your suitcase among a sea of similar-looking bags. While many travelers attach colorful ribbons to their luggage to make it stand out, a Dublin Airport baggage handler warns against this common practice.

According to John, the baggage handler, “Ribbons that people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall.” He explains that if a bag can’t be scanned automatically, it may require manual processing, potentially causing delays and even missing your flight.

Another surprising tip: avoid packing marzipan. “Don’t ever pack marzipan in your luggage. It has the same density as some explosives,” John says, warning that this could lead to your bag being flagged for a security search.

Instead of using ribbons, consider choosing a suitcase in a bold color or adding fabric paint or stickers that won’t interfere with scanning. By following these tips, you can reduce the risk of airport mishaps and ensure your luggage arrives safely at your destination.

Finding your luggage at the airport can be a stressful experience, especially when faced with a sea of similar-looking bags on the baggage carousel. Many travelers turn to attaching colorful ribbons to their suitcases in an attempt to make them stand out. However, according to a Dublin Airport baggage handler named John, this common practice may actually do more harm than good.

John cautions against tying ribbons onto luggage, explaining that these ribbons can cause issues when the bag is scanned in the baggage hall. If a bag cannot be scanned automatically due to the ribbon obstructing the process, it may need to be manually processed. This could potentially lead to delays, and in some cases, even result in missing your flight. To avoid this unnecessary hassle, John suggests opting for alternative methods to make your luggage easily identifiable.

In addition to warning against ribbons, John also advises against packing marzipan in your luggage. Surprisingly, marzipan has the same density as some explosives, which could raise red flags during security screenings and prompt a thorough search of your bag. By being mindful of what you pack and how you decorate your luggage, you can prevent any unwanted delays or complications during your travels.

Rather than relying on ribbons, consider choosing a suitcase in a bold color that will naturally stand out among the sea of bags. If you prefer a more personalized touch, you can use fabric paint or stickers to customize your luggage without interfering with scanning processes. These simple adjustments can help streamline the baggage handling process and ensure that your belongings arrive safely at your destination.

By following John’s advice and making thoughtful choices when it comes to identifying and decorating your luggage, you can minimize the risk of airport mishaps and enjoy a smoother travel experience. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to navigating the busy world of air travel.