Planning your next holiday and thinking of buying a new suitcase? Wait! You might want to reconsider your choice of color, or want to make an informed decision while buying.
With regard to this, travel expert Jamie Frazer, from US summer camp Wild Packs, explains why black luggage isn’t the best option. “Hard-sided black suitcases are the most common globally, making them the hardest to identify and most likely to go missing,” he says. “If your bag is misplaced, you don’t want it to blend in with the countless others.”
What should you do then?
Frazer recommends choosing colorful or uniquely marked luggage to stand out. Vibrant suitcases are far easier to spot among the sea of black on baggage carousels. To make them easily identifiable, he advises attaching distinguishing markers to those affixed to their black suitcases, such as bright luggage tags, stickers, or patterned straps.
Tips to avoid the risk of losing your luggage
To minimise the risk of your suitcase being lost or misplaced, Frazer advises travellers to:
1. Arrive early: Checking in your luggage well in advance gives airline staff enough time to tag and load it correctly.
2. Use secure luggage tags: Attach a clear, durable tag with your name, phone number, and email. Avoid including your home address for safety reasons.
3. Personalize your bag: Try adding colorful ribbons or custom-made posters to easily distinguish your bag from others.
Why black is risky
The ubiquity of black suitcases often leads to confusion and mix-ups, especially in busy airports. Frazer highlights the importance of being proactive: “Personalizing your luggage is a simple step that ensures your travel experience remains stress-free.”
Although black luggage appears like a timeless and sensible option, their widespread use creates problems in crowded airports. You can avoid confusion or delays by choosing colourful luggage or artistically personalising your suitcase.
So, here you get all the advantages and disadvantages of carrying or buying a black suitcase, and some of the tips that can ensure a smoother travel experience. As it’s always best to spend more time enjoying your holiday and less time hunting for your suitcase at the baggage carousel.
