There is one simple way to make sure you don’t end up picking up the wrong luggage
When it comes to selecting luggage, most travellers instinctively opt for black, grey or navy cases. They appear safe, timeless and seem sensible – until you find yourself at the baggage carousel surrounded by numerous other cases that appear identical.
All of a sudden, your case becomes difficult to identify and you face the possibility of grabbing the wrong one – or another passenger mistakenly taking yours. Because of this, Ryanair has urged passengers who frequently travel with black, navy or grey cases to ‘alter’ their baggage to prevent any mix-ups upon arrival.
The budget airline recommended holidaymakers make their checked luggage more recognisable on the carousel due to how common these shades are, reports the Express.
In a statement last year, Ryanair said: “Make it easier to spot your checked-in luggage on the carousel, especially if your luggage is black, navy or grey (like 99.9 percent of the population). Add a colourful luggage tag or ribbon to the handle so that there’s no confusion on arrival.”
The popular airline also advises passengers to make copies of their passport, driving licence and/or ID card and email them to themselves. It’s also recommended to photograph these documents and save them on your phone for offline access at your destination.
According to research carried out by luggage brand Eminent, over 40% of travellers choose black hard-sided cases. Jamie Frazer, a travel guru from US summer camp Wild Packs, shared with the Economic Times: “Vibrant colours are far easier to spot on the baggage carousel than the typical black hard-sided suitcase.
“If you still want to use a black suitcase, include colourful luggage tags, stickers, or patterned straps so that it stands out in a crowd.”
He further advised that you should “include your name, phone number, and email address on the tag, as these are typically the quickest ways to get in touch.” He then concluded the warning by urging people to always “avoid listing your home address to reduce safety risks.”