Hovering anxiously at the luggage carousel ranks amongst the most nerve-wracking moments of any flight, as passengers scramble to identify their suitcases amongst scores of near-identical bags. Countless travellers depend on straightforward tricks, such as fastening a brightly coloured ribbon or piece of string around their luggage, to make identification simpler.

However, according to airport personnel, certain of these methods could actually prove counterproductive and cause delays. John, a member of staff at Dublin Airport, previously spoke to RSVPLive regarding the potential drawbacks. He explained: "Ribbons that people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall.

"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."

Beyond scanning complications, decorative additions such as ribbons or strings can similarly become entangled in conveyor belt machinery, potentially bringing the entire carousel to a standstill and holding up all luggage.

John further noted that old airline stickers or tags remaining from previous journeys can also baffle scanning equipment, occasionally dispatching baggage to incorrect destinations or triggering further delays.

For those wishing their bags to stand out from the crowd, specialists recommend considerably safer alternatives. Brightly coloured luggage straps, coloured tape on handles, or distinctive stickers can assist passengers in spotting their cases swiftly without risking scanning complications.

Luggage covers present another solution for checked baggage, obtainable in vibrant colours, striking patterns, or even customised designs. These covers not only enhance bag visibility but also offer protection against damage throughout handling.

Certain waterproof covers are obtainable, protecting contents should a bag be exposed to rainfall or positioned on a damp trolley. The colour of a suitcase can equally make a substantial difference.

Black continues to be the most popular selection, but airport personnel caution it can make locating a bag more challenging or heighten the risk of theft.

"Many lost property offices will be full of suitcases of the exact same type and colour," John noted, making it harder for owners to be reunited with their belongings.

"Take old stickers off the bag, it can cause confusion with the scanning process." And when it comes to packing your case he had another top tip.

He said: "Whatever you do, don't pack marzipan in your case. The sweet treat shares a similar density to explosives and, during scanning, could lead to luggage being removed from the plane and you being removed from your flight."

With these practical suggestions, travellers can minimise the anxiety of baggage reclaim and prevent unnecessary hold-ups. Considering bag colour and employing safe, conspicuous markers can guarantee luggage is distinctive while maintaining compatibility with airport scanning equipment and conveyor systems.