If you’ve ever spent time at an airport, anxiously watching the luggage carousel for your suitcase, you know how stressful it can be. Hundreds of nearly identical bags roll past on the conveyor belt, making it difficult to spot your belongings in the crowd.

Many travelers have found a simple solution—tying a brightly colored ribbon to their luggage. It’s a common trick meant to help bags stand out. However, an airport employee warns that this practice could do more harm than good, potentially causing delays or even resulting in your bag being left behind.

Additionally, certain items—like marzipan—can trigger security concerns that might lead to a frustrating travel experience. Let’s explore why airport staff recommend avoiding these mistakes and what you can do instead to ensure smooth travels.

Why Ribbons on Luggage Can Be a Big Mistake

Even experienced travelers worry about losing their luggage. To minimize the chances of someone else taking their bag by mistake or missing it on the carousel, many people tie ribbons or other personal identifiers to their suitcases. While this may seem like a smart idea, John, a baggage handler at Dublin Airport, cautions that it can actually backfire.

Speaking to RSVP Live, John explained that ribbons and other add-ons can interfere with the airport’s automated baggage scanning system. If a bag cannot be scanned properly, it has to be manually processed, which increases the risk of it getting delayed or even misplaced.

“If the bag cannot be automatically scanned, it may be processed manually, which may result in your bag being lost or delayed on the flight,” John said.

To avoid this issue, travelers should keep their luggage free of unnecessary additions. Instead of using ribbons, John suggests opting for a distinct suitcase design that stands out naturally without interfering with the scanning process.

Outdated Stickers Can Also Cause Delays

Beyond avoiding ribbons, John advises travelers to remove old travel stickers from their bags. Stickers from previous flights can confuse the automated scanning system, leading to errors in baggage routing.

“Take old stickers off the bag; they can cause confusion during the scanning process,” John explained. By keeping your suitcase free of clutter, you improve its chances of arriving at the right destination on time.

Why You Should Never Pack Marzipan in Checked Luggage

While some packing mistakes cause delays, others can trigger security alerts. One surprising item that travelers should avoid in checked luggage is marzipan, a sweet almond-based treat. According to John, marzipan has the same density as certain explosives, which means it can cause your bag to be flagged for additional screening.

“Never include marzipan in your checked luggage. Your suitcase will be taken off the plane, and you’ll be called for a bag search since it has the same density as some explosives,” John warned.

To prevent unnecessary security concerns, it’s best to leave marzipan out of your luggage or keep it in your carry-on, where it can be easily inspected if needed.

The Best Way to Ensure Your Luggage Stands Out

For years, black, brown, and navy blue have been the most common suitcase colors. While these shades are classic and versatile, they make it harder to identify your luggage quickly at baggage claim.

According to Travel & Leisure, black luggage remains one of the most popular choices, but opting for a different color can make it easier to find your bag in a sea of lookalikes. Brightly colored suitcases or those with unique patterns can stand out without interfering with security screening.

If you’re not ready to invest in a new suitcase, there are alternative ways to personalize your luggage. Instead of ribbons, consider using fabric paint or distinctive stickers that don’t obstruct scanning. These small adjustments can help you recognize your bag instantly without causing any baggage processing issues.

A Simple Trick to Prevent Luggage Damage

Another common mistake travelers make is placing their suitcase upside down when checking it in. To prevent damage, always send your luggage through the conveyor belt with the wheels facing upward. This small step helps protect your bag and ensures that handlers can move it efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Traveling can be stressful, but small adjustments can make a big difference in ensuring a smooth experience. Avoiding ribbons, removing outdated stickers, and steering clear of problematic items like marzipan can help prevent unnecessary delays. Additionally, choosing luggage with a distinctive color or pattern can make it easier to identify your belongings without interfering with security or baggage processing.

By following these simple tips from an experienced baggage handler, travelers can reduce stress and avoid common airport mishaps. The next time you pack for a trip, keep these guidelines in mind to ensure your luggage arrives safely and on time.