Why Passengers Are Being Warned About Ribbons on Luggage
You may have seen warnings telling travelers not to tie ribbons, straps, or other decorations to checked baggage. There is some truth behind the advice, but it is not a universal airport rule.
The main concern is that loose ribbons or straps can become caught in baggage-handling and conveyor equipment. They may also interfere with automated baggage sorting or become detached during handling.
What travelers can do instead
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Use the airline’s official baggage tags for identification.
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Remove loose ribbons, dangling straps, and other protruding decorations from checked bags.
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Put your name and contact details inside the luggage as well as on the exterior tag.
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Choose a distinctive suitcase color or pattern if you want your bag to be easy to recognize.
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Photograph your luggage before checking it in.
What about colorful ribbons?
A ribbon isn’t inherently dangerous, and airports don’t universally prohibit them. The issue is loose material that can catch on machinery, particularly during automated sorting.
Bottom line: If you’re checking a bag, keeping the exterior smooth and free of dangling items is a sensible precaution. Follow the specific baggage instructions of your airline and departure airport, since procedures can differ.
