If you’ve ever experienced that mix of excitement and anxiety while watching the baggage carousel at the airport, you’ll know the specific stress of spotting your suitcase among dozens of similar-looking bags. Travelers have developed various tricks to make their luggage more recognizable, with colorful ribbons being one of the most popular solutions. However, a Dublin Airport baggage handler named John has shared a little-known tip that might make you reconsider using ribbons on your suitcase.

According to John, adding colorful ribbons to your luggage might seem like a simple way to set it apart, but it can cause unexpected issues. “Ribbons that people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause problems with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall,” he explains. The ribbons, which dangle from handles or straps, can sometimes block scanning equipment, causing a bag to be marked for manual processing. While this might not seem like a big deal at first, John emphasizes that any bag flagged for manual handling can face delays in reaching the intended flight, leading to a late arrival or, in some cases, a missing bag that never makes it onto the plane. This seemingly harmless trick can, therefore, lead to airport delays or even missed flights for unsuspecting travelers.

Instead of ribbons, John suggests exploring other options to make your luggage more distinctive without interfering with scanning equipment. One option is to choose luggage in a bold or unusual color; colors like bright orange, teal, or even deep purple can help make a suitcase easier to spot on the carousel without relying on external accessories. Another creative alternative is to personalize your luggage with subtle but noticeable markings that won’t interfere with airport machinery, such as fabric paint, stickers, or a permanent marker. By customizing your suitcase this way, you’ll maintain the benefits of easy identification while sidestepping any potential scanning issues.

In addition to ribbon-related advice, John shared another unexpected travel tip: avoid packing marzipan in your luggage. He explained, “Don’t ever pack marzipan in your luggage. It has the same density as some explosives,” which can lead to a security flag. Marzipan, a confection made of almonds and sugar, has a similar density to certain explosive materials, and the baggage screening equipment at the airport might interpret it as a potential threat. If this happens, your suitcase will likely be flagged for a security search, leading to added delays. Though a marzipan-related search may seem humorous, it’s a real scenario that could disrupt your travel plans, so it’s best to leave this treat out of your packed bags.

These tips underscore the importance of considering how seemingly small choices can impact the airport’s logistical systems. In a busy airport environment, any additional manual handling or security checks can disrupt the smooth processing of baggage. Even something as simple as a ribbon or marzipan can create delays in an airport’s high-stakes, fast-paced atmosphere.

To avoid these unexpected baggage mishaps, following John’s advice can give you a more seamless airport experience. Select a bold-colored suitcase or use subtle, non-intrusive ways to mark your luggage for easy identification. And if you’re traveling with marzipan, consider packing it in your carry-on or leaving it out entirely to avoid security complications.

Ultimately, these thoughtful adjustments can go a long way in ensuring that your luggage arrives safely at your destination, saving you time, stress, and the hassle of navigating potential delays. So the next time you pack for a trip, keep these insights in mind for smoother travels from start to finish.