Airport Worker Exposes the Real Reason Your Bag Might Miss the Flight

Most of us have been there—standing by the baggage carousel after a long flight, waiting for what feels like forever for our suitcase to appear. It’s one of those little travel annoyances that can put a damper on your holiday excitement before it even begins.

So, many people have come up with their own tricks to spot their luggage faster. One of the most common methods? Tying a bright ribbon or piece of string around the handle. It seems harmless, even clever, but according to one airport worker, this popular hack might actually make your journey more stressful, not easier.

John, a baggage handler who works at Dublin Airport, recently explained why travelers might want to think twice before decorating their suitcases. He told RSVP Live that ribbons and other identifiers can actually interfere with how airport systems process luggage.

“Ribbons people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall,” he said. “If the bag can’t be scanned automatically, it can end up in manual processing, which could mean your bag doesn’t make it to the flight.”

In other words, your cute little ribbon could be the reason your bag gets delayed or, worse, left behind altogether. That’s definitely not the kind of surprise anyone wants on the way to a long-awaited vacation.

Airport Worker Reveals Stickers and Wheel Direction Could Affect How Safely and Quickly Your Luggage Travels.

And it’s not just ribbons causing trouble. John explained that stickers, another favorite way for travelers to personalize their bags, can also create confusion for airport systems.

“Take old stickers off the bag,” he advised. “They can cause confusion with the scanning process.”

So, while those souvenir tags from past trips might look nostalgic, they could actually slow your luggage down.

John also shared a few other insider tips to help travelers avoid unnecessary hassle. One of his suggestions might sound odd, but it makes sense once you think about it.

He recommends placing your suitcase on the conveyor belt with the wheels facing upward. According to him, it helps reduce damage to your luggage during handling. It’s a simple adjustment that could save you from having to deal with a broken wheel or a dented corner later on.

Pexels

But perhaps the most unexpected warning was about something many people wouldn’t even think twice about: marzipan. Yes, the sweet almond treat that’s popular for baking and holiday desserts.

John explained that marzipan has a density similar to that of certain explosives, which can cause major problems during airport security screenings.

“It has the same density as some explosives, so your bag will be removed, and you’ll be called from the plane for a bag search,” he said.

So, if you’re planning to bring marzipan as a gift or snack, it might be better to buy it at your destination rather than risk an awkward and time-consuming search. John’s advice highlights just how many small things can unexpectedly impact your travel plans.

What seems like a harmless personal touch or simple packing choice can end up triggering airport security or slowing down baggage processing systems. And while ribbons, stickers, and marzipan might sound like minor details, they can quickly turn into big inconveniences if they cause your luggage to miss a flight or get flagged for inspection.

Understanding Baggage Handling Protocols

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), a single tag or label discrepancy can lead to a suitcase being redirected to manual screening. This is often due to security protocols that prioritize passenger safety over efficiency.

Experts in airline operations recommend using unique identifiers for your luggage, such as brightly colored tags or stickers. This can aid in quicker identification and minimize the likelihood of your bag being flagged for additional review, thus improving your travel experience.

Check Your Medication Before Traveling to Avoid Legal Trouble Abroad.

His tips come as travelers face more warnings about what they can and can’t bring abroad. Recently, people have been reminded to double-check their medication before traveling.

Some painkillers and prescription drugs that are legal in one country might be considered controlled substances in another. Taking them across borders without the right paperwork could result in fines or even jail time.

To stay safe, it’s a good idea to check that any medicine you’re carrying complies with the UK’s Misuse of Drugs Act 1971. If it contains a controlled drug, you’ll need a doctor’s letter to confirm it’s for medical use.

And before you pack anything, take a quick look at the entry requirements for your destination country; some countries have strict rules on importing medication, even over-the-counter products.

Pixabay

At the end of the day, most of these precautions boil down to one thing: being prepared. A few small adjustments, like removing old stickers, skipping the ribbon, and checking your luggage contents, can make your trip smoother and help you avoid unnecessary stress.

After all, travel should be about relaxing, not worrying about whether your bag will make it to the plane or get pulled aside for a search. Sometimes the best travel hacks aren’t the flashy ones you see on social media; they’re the quiet, practical tips shared by the people who actually see what happens behind the scenes every day.

A former airport baggage handler, Mike Johnson, emphasizes the importance of proper luggage labeling. He states, "Many bags go missing simply due to unclear tags or damaged labels. Keeping your tags intact and legible is crucial."

Additionally, he advises travelers to use robust locks and ensure their bags are securely closed. This not only protects the contents but also facilitates the smooth handling of luggage during transit. Following these simple recommendations can significantly decrease the chances of delays and lost belongings.

In summary, understanding the nuances of baggage handling is vital for a seamless travel experience. Experts highlight that the smallest details, like clear labeling and secure luggage, can prevent unnecessary complications.

By implementing these practices, travelers can minimize the chances of their bags being delayed or lost. As Mike Johnson points out, awareness of airport protocols can transform the often frustrating wait at baggage claim into a more efficient process. So, the next time you travel, remember to take these insights to heart for a smoother journey.