Your Suitcase Wants a Better Identity

Why that old ribbon trick may be hurting more than helping — and smarter ways to spot your bag at baggage claim

There are few moments in travel more stressful than standing at baggage claim, watching what feels like 437 identical black suitcases circle endlessly past you.

Every seasoned traveler has developed a strategy.

Some buy bright luggage. Others slap on giant luggage tags. And many of us — especially those of us who grew up before AirTags and smartphone apps — have tied a colorful ribbon around the handle and called it a day.

Turns out, that beloved little ribbon may not be the travel genius we thought it was. According to baggage handlers, loose ribbons, bows, and dangling decorations can interfere with automated baggage scanners. If a bag can't be scanned properly, it may have to be pulled from the automated system and processed manually — which increases the chances of delays or even missing your flight altogether. Airport workers also recommend removing old airline tags and stickers for the same reason.

So if ribbons are out, what should travelers do instead?

Glad you asked.

1. Embrace the Handle Wrap

One of our favorite low-cost tricks is a brightly colored luggage handle wrap. Unlike ribbons, these fit snugly around the handle and don't dangle into scanners or conveyor belts.

Bonus: they make your suitcase much easier to spot from across the carousel.

And if your traveling companions all have black luggage (and let's be honest, they probably do), everyone can choose a different color.

2. Think Bigger Than a Tag

Traditional luggage tags are important, but don't stop there.

Add something distinctive that's securely attached:

• A colorful luggage strap around the middle of the suitcase

• A patterned luggage cover

• Bright duct tape wrapped around a corner or handle

• A large vinyl decal or sticker

The keyword is securely. If it flaps, dangles, or swings, airport machinery may not appreciate your creativity.

3. Go Old School With Duct Tape

This may be the cheapest travel hack on the planet.

Buy a roll of brightly colored duct tape and place a strip on all four sides of your suitcase.

We've seen everything from neon green to Kentucky Wildcat blue.

It's inexpensive, easy to replace, and incredibly effective.

Just don't cover airline barcode tags.

4. Add Technology to the Mix

Even the most distinctive suitcase occasionally decides to go on its own adventure.

That's why many experienced travelers now tuck a tracking device such as an AirTag inside checked luggage. It won't prevent delays, but it can provide tremendous peace of mind if your suitcase decides to spend an unexpected night in Amsterdam while you're already in Athens.

5. Make Your Bag Unique Before You Buy It

Here's a slightly provocative travel opinion:

The sea of identical black rolling bags at baggage claim is entirely self-inflicted.

When you're shopping for luggage, consider navy, burgundy, olive, forest green, or even a subtle pattern.

Your future self, standing exhausted after an overnight flight, will thank you.

One Final Tip

Before every trip, snap a quick photo of your suitcase with your phone. If your luggage is delayed, that photo can make describing it to airline staff much easier. Because "It's black and has wheels" describes roughly 83% of all luggage on Earth.

At Lindsey Adventures, we believe travel should create memories — not baggage claim anxiety. And if you're on the bus, you're one of us... even if your suitcase arrives a few minutes later.

Happy travels.

— George & Deanna