Ryanair, the popular low-cost airline, has issued a warning to passengers who frequently travel with black, navy, or grey suitcases.
These common colours are challenging to identify at baggage claim, often causing confusion and delays as travellers try to locate their belongings – so, the airline is advising them to make their luggage more recognisable.
The warning comes after Ryanair saw a record 19.3 million passengers travel on its flights in June alone. The airline notes that “99.9 per cent of the population” opt for dark luggage, which can easily lead to accidental luggage swaps on the conveyor belt.
Ryanair’s advice is simple yet effective: “Make it easier to spot your checked-in luggage on the carousel, especially if your luggage is black, navy or grey. Add a colourful luggage tag or ribbon to the handle so that there’s no confusion on arrival.”
Practical tips
To help passengers follow Ryanair’s advice effectively, here are a few tips on how to make your suitcase stand out at the baggage claim without creating complications:
- Choose bright colours: Consider luggage in bold hues like yellow, red, or green. If you prefer a more personalised look, patterns such as animal prints or unique designs can also be effective.
- Use luggage covers or colourful labels: A vibrant luggage cover or a boldly coloured label with your name and contact information can make your suitcase more recognisable while ensuring it’s easily traceable if lost.
- Take a photo of your luggage: Before you check in, take a clear picture of your suitcase. In the event it gets lost, a photo can serve as a useful reference for airline staff.
- Consider smart tags: Devices like AirTags or Tiles placed inside your luggage can provide real-time tracking and help locate your suitcase if it’s misplaced.
Tips for stress-free travel
In addition to luggage advice, Ryanair suggests passengers take proactive steps to safeguard essential travel documents.
- Copying your passport, driving licence, and other identification, and emailing them to yourself, ensures you have backup access even if your original documents go missing.
- Saving digital copies on your mobile for offline access can also be a wise move when travelling abroad.
Following these straightforward recommendations can help make your next trip through baggage claim smoother, ensuring you locate your luggage quickly without confusion.