A Comprehensive Guide To Adding Tags For Airport Navigation

Southwest Airlines offers self-tagging of baggage at the airport. The process involves using a self-serve kiosk to obtain tags and paper tickets. Passengers can then attach the tags to their bags and bring them to the counter for weighing and check-in. Some airports also provide the option of digital bag check-in, where passengers can check their bags ahead of time through an app or online. This can save time and provide bag tracking features. However, it is important to note that passengers still need to print their bag tags at the airport kiosk even after checking in digitally.

Using the BAGTAG app

To use the BAGTAG app with Southwest Airlines, first, select the airline from the menu. Then, fill out your booking reference and email address, and select your flight to start your journey. You are now ready to check in your baggage. Proceed to the electronic baggage check-in and select your flight. Your baggage will be checked in automatically. Click the "activate with NFC" button to start scanning. Hold your phone on top of the tag until the light on the BAGTAG turns a continuous blue. Your label should then be sent to your BAGTAG. If it doesn’t upload correctly, simply try again.

BAGTAG has been used in over 350 airports worldwide. The app is available for use with several airlines, including Qatar Airways, Alaska Airlines, Lufthansa, Austrian, Swiss, China Southern, and Air Dolomiti.

Checking in at the electronic baggage kiosk

Next, you will need to click the 'activate with NFC' button and scan your phone by holding it on top of the tag until the light on the BAGTAG turns a continuous blue. The label should then be sent to your BAGTAG. If it doesn't upload correctly, simply try again.

At the airport, you can also use the self-service kiosks to print your luggage tags. You will need to enter your confirmation number, Rapid Rewards number, or the credit card used for the reservation. Once you have retrieved your reservation, you can select your flight and the kiosk will generate your boarding pass.

There are usually two queues for baggage check-in. One is a full-service line where an agent will print your boarding pass and luggage tags. The other is a bag drop line, where you will need to obtain your tags from the kiosk before proceeding to the counter to have your bags weighed.

Printing your own luggage tags

Step 1: Measure and Choose a Template

First, measure the space in the tag if you have equipment or luggage with plastic luggage tag holders. If you need tag holders, you can purchase blank ones from office supply stores. Alternatively, if you plan to use labels, you have more freedom in designing the tags, so consider the space where you'll place them.

Step 2: Select a Design

You can use Microsoft Word's online template gallery to find a pre-designed tag that suits your aesthetic. Search for "tags", "address tags", or "luggage" in the template gallery, and download your preferred template. If you use Google Docs, you can also convert a Google Doc into an address label.

Step 3: Customize Your Information

Double-click on any element of the chosen template to customize it with your information. Include essential details such as your name, contact information, and any relevant company or logo information. Leave a space blank for the name of the traveller if you plan to use the tags for multiple people.

Step 4: Design and Experiment

This step is for those who want to get creative and design their tags from scratch. You can use platforms like Canva to design unique luggage labels. Experiment with different fonts, vector graphics, illustrations, and even photos from your last family vacation. Play around with placements, sizes, and textures to make your tag truly yours.

Step 5: Print Your Tags

Once you're happy with your design, it's time to print. Printing your luggage tags is similar to printing any other document. Go to "File", then "Print", and finally, "Print Preview" to ensure your labels look the way you want them to. Keep in mind that printing one tag per page ensures better quality, but you can also fit multiple tags on a single page to save paper.

Step 6: Finalize Your Tags

After printing, carefully cut out each tag. If your tags have adhesive sections, be sure to line them up correctly. You can write in the traveller's name by hand, or print out the names separately and affix them to the tags.

And that's it! You now have personalized luggage tags that will make your luggage stand out at the baggage carousel. Happy travelling!

Attaching the tags to your luggage

Step 1: Obtain Your Luggage Tags

If you are flying with Southwest, you can obtain your luggage tags at the self-serve kiosks. These kiosks are usually located near the ticket counter or the baggage drop-off area. You can input your confirmation number on the kiosk, follow the prompts, and print out your luggage tags. Some kiosks may also allow you to print your boarding pass at the same time.

Step 2: Prepare the Luggage Tag

Before attaching the tag to your bag, you need to prepare the tag itself. Most luggage tags have a long, clear or coloured plastic loop or strap. Take the loop and pass it through the hole in the tag. You may need to stretch the loop slightly to get it through. This will create a secure loop to attach to your luggage.

Step 3: Attach the Tag to Your Luggage

Now it's time to attach the tag to your suitcase. Identify a handle on your luggage that you want to use. It could be the top handle or the side handle, depending on your preference. Pass the free end of the loop through the handle, and then pass the tag itself through the loop. Pull the tag and the loop tight to ensure a secure fit. Make sure that the tag is facing outwards and is easily visible.

Step 4: Double-Check the Tag's Position

Once you have attached the tag, double-check its position. The tag should be secure and not easily detachable. Also, ensure that the tag is not obstructed or blocked by any part of the luggage. This will ensure that it can be easily scanned and identified by baggage handlers.

Step 5: Consider Additional Measures

While the provided luggage tags are usually sufficient, you may want to consider additional measures to ensure your luggage is properly identified. Some travellers recommend placing a label or a business card with your contact information inside your bag. This can be helpful in case the external tag gets detached or damaged. Additionally, you can use zip-ties or luggage tag chains instead of the provided plastic loops for a more secure attachment.

By following these steps, you can confidently attach luggage tags and provide clear identification for your checked baggage. Remember to double-check that your tags are secure and visible to ensure a smooth journey for your luggage.

Checking your luggage at the counter

For international flights, the recommended arrival time is 120 minutes before departure. Additionally, you must verify your passport with an agent or kiosk at the Southwest Airlines Ticket Counter at least 60 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Once you're at the airport, you can check your luggage at the counter. The latest time to check your luggage is 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights. If you don't meet these check-in times, your bag may not be guaranteed to make it aboard your flight, and you may not be allowed to board.

To save time, you can check your bag digitally after checking in online. Then, you can print your luggage tags at an airport kiosk and hand over your tagged luggage to a customer service agent at the counter. Remember to allow time to go through security, especially if you're close to the time limit for check-in.

Frequently asked questions