Ah, this is actually more important than it sounds! Baggage handlers see thousands of suitcases every day, and even a small ribbon can cause unexpected problems. Here’s why:
✈️ Why you should never attach a ribbon to your luggage
1️⃣ It can get caught in machinery
- Airport conveyor belts, sorting machines, and bag scanners have moving parts.
- Loose ribbons, strings, or fabric tags can wrap around rollers or gears, sometimes ripping the luggage or causing it to jam.
2️⃣ It may slow down processing
- Extra ribbons can confuse automated scanners, especially those using optical sensors.
- Bags may get flagged for manual inspection, slowing your travel.
3️⃣ Security risk
- A ribbon could obscure barcodes or TSA tags, leading to misrouting.
- In rare cases, it might be mistaken for unauthorized material.
4️⃣ It can be removed or stolen
- Decorative ribbons are fragile and easy to snag.
- Thieves can grab or tear them, potentially damaging your bag.
5️⃣ Risk of damage to your bag or others’ bags
- Even sturdy ribbons can catch on zippers or handles.
- If one bag gets stuck, it can pull other bags off track in the sorting system.
✅ Safe alternatives
- Bright luggage tags – durable, readable, and TSA-approved
- Luggage straps – color-coded, secure, and easy to spot
- Unique stickers or decals – won’t interfere with machinery
- Colored handles or covers – safe and visible
Bottom line
Even if it looks cute, a ribbon is not worth the risk. It might seem harmless, but baggage handlers see it all the time: it can cause jams, damage, or delays.
If you want, I can make a list of 5 ways to easily personalize luggage that are totally safe for airports—so your bag still stands out without risking mishaps.
Do you want me to do that?
