We’ve all been there—standing around the luggage carousel after a long flight, watching a seemingly endless stream of identical black suitcases go by.
You’re tired, possibly jetlagged, and just want to grab your bag and go. But how do you make sure you spot your suitcase fast without playing a guessing game?
Good news: with a few simple tricks, you can make your luggage stand out in a crowd.
Here are 6 smart and easy ways to quickly identify your luggage at the conveyor belt—and save yourself time, stress, and potential mix-ups.
1. Tie a colorful ribbon or scarf
The easiest and most budget-friendly method? Tie a bold ribbon or scarf to your suitcase handle. Choose something bright—like neon green, polka dots, or a patterned scarf that’s easy to recognize at a glance. Make sure it’s tied securely so it doesn’t come off in transit.
2. Choose unique or colorful luggage
If you’re in the market for new luggage, skip the plain black or navy and go for something a bit more eye-catching. Bright colors, patterns, or hard-shell prints are not only stylish but also much easier to spot on the conveyor belt. Plus, fewer people will have the same bag.
3. Use distinctive luggage tags
A custom luggage tag with a bold design, funny quote, or unique shape can double as an identifier and a personal touch. Look for tags that are sturdy and easy to spot, and make sure your contact information is up to date.
4. Add stickers or decals
Turn your suitcase into a travel canvas! Add travel-themed stickers, decals, or patches to personalize your bag and make it instantly recognizable. Just be sure they’re weather-resistant so they hold up during travel.
5. Invest in a luggage cover
Not only do luggage covers protect your suitcase from scratches and dirt, they come in countless colorful and quirky designs. From tropical prints to geometric patterns, a cover can make your suitcase one-of-a-kind and easy to grab in a crowd.
6. Use reflective or glow-in-the-dark tape
For late-night flights or dim baggage areas, reflective tape or glow-in-the-dark strips are a genius move. Just add a few strips to the sides of your bag and you’ll spot it from across the room—even in low light.
Final tip: Take a photo before you fly
In case your luggage gets lost or delayed, snap a quick photo of your suitcase before checking it in. It’ll be easier to describe to airline staff, and help speed up recovery if needed.
By using one—or a combination—of these tricks, you’ll never have to stand at the carousel wondering which bag is yours again. A few minutes of preparation can save you a lot of hassle at your destination.
Safe travels! ✈️
