Why Baggage Handlers Say You Should Avoid Ribbons on Suitcases

Many travelers tie colorful ribbons to their luggage because they make suitcases easier to recognize at baggage claim. However, airport staff often advise against the practice because modern baggage systems depend heavily on automated scanners and conveyor equipment.

If a ribbon hangs over or near the baggage tag, it can make the barcode or other identifying information harder for scanners to read. When a bag cannot be processed automatically, it may require manual handling, potentially slowing its journey and increasing the chance of delays, particularly when connecting flights are involved.

Loose ribbons can also create physical problems. They may become caught in conveyor belts, rollers, or sorting equipment, or flip over baggage tags and become tangled with other luggage. These issues can interfere with the automated sorting process and require staff to intervene.

For travelers who want their suitcase to stand out, sturdier options such as distinctive luggage straps, suitcase covers, or secure identification tags may be more practical. While ribbons can make luggage easier to spot, they may interfere with the systems designed to move bags efficiently through modern airports.