A travel expert explains why it’s a bad idea to tie a ribbon to your bags.

John, a veteran luggage handler at Dublin Airport, claims that these widely used strategies can backfire.

Actually, with their help, your worst travel nightmare may come true.

Forget the Bow

According to John, who spoke to RSVP Live, attaching unique ribbons to your bags can cause delays, which might cause your possessions to miss their flight.

While inspecting bags at the baggage claim, “ribbons that travelers tie onto their suitcases for easy identification can cause complications,” John told the news source. “If a bag cannot be scanned automatically, it will be processed by hand, which increases the possibility that your bag will not be allowed onto the flight.”

If you want to increase the likelihood that your bag will arrive at its destination on time, try checking it without the following identifiers: ribbons and old travel stickers.

“Take off any old stickers from your bags; they might mess up the scanning procedure,” John says.

The delicious almond-flavored dessert marzipan is another possible luggage hazard. John says that transporting marzipan can make you a target for airport security.

“Marzipan should never be carried in a suitcase. The Dublin baggage expert warned that since it has the same density as certain bombs, your suitcase might be searched and you could be asked to leave the aircraft.

As a last precaution, turn your luggage wheels up before feeding it to handlers like John on the conveyor belt.

Say Goodbye to Plain Old Baggage

Modern luggage designs have gone a long way from the days of plain old black, brown, or blue bags.

Black is “one of the most—if not, the most—versatile colors, which is why it’s so prevalent,” according to Travel & Leisure.

“So, if you want your bags to stand out at baggage claim, it’s worth choosing a different hue,” the source says. Think of a brightly colored or patterned luggage, like a fiery pink one.

If you’re not a fan of pink, there is an abundance of other vivid hues available for baggage that will guarantee that your belongings stand out.

You may also use fabric paint or stickers to add distinguishing elements to your baggage that won’t interfere with scanning, which is a good option if you’re not ready to leave with your present set.

Travelers from all over the world should feel a little less anxious after reading John’s views!

Do you have any suggestions on how passengers might be safe while they are at the airport? Leave a comment telling us what you think, and share this story so we can hear from more people!