A baggage handler reveals why you should never attach a ribbon to your suitcase.

When traveling, we all share the same concern: that our suitcase might go missing, get left behind, or—worse yet—be mistaken for someone else’s. To prevent this, many travelers attach a colorful ribbon, a scarf, or some other easily identifiable accessory to their luggage. At first glance, this seems clever… but according to John, a long-time baggage handler at Dublin Airport, this common practice is actually not a good idea.

His explanation might just make you rethink your habits before your next trip.

Why is a ribbon a problem? For John,