Attaching Airport Luggage Tags: A Step-By-Step Guide

Attaching a luggage tag to your suitcase is a simple yet critical step in ensuring the security of your belongings while travelling. Luggage tags play a significant role in helping your bags find their way back to you if they are lost or mishandled, which is not an uncommon occurrence. In this paragraph, we will explore the best practices for attaching luggage tags to suitcases, maximising the chances of a safe and smooth journey for you and your luggage.

Where to attach the tag

Where you attach your luggage tag can impact its effectiveness. One of the most common and effective ways to attach luggage tags is to secure them to the exterior handle of your suitcase. This placement makes it easily visible to both airport staff and fellow travellers, making it easier to identify your bag among similar-looking luggage.

When using a 30-inch suitcase or any large luggage, make sure to use durable luggage tags that won't tear or get damaged during transit. Attach the tag to the outside of your bag, but also pack a second label or tag inside the bag on top of your belongings. This second tag acts as a backup in case the external tag is damaged or removed.

If you're using a tie-in luggage tag, follow these steps:

• Slide a luggage loop or durable zip tie into the slot of the luggage tag.
• Slide the loop under the bag’s handle or strap.
• Pull the loop or zip tie tight.

For leather belted luggage tags, follow these steps:

• Open the buckle on the luggage tag.
• Slide the tag onto the luggage handle.
• Close the buckle securely around the handle.

If your suitcase has built-in shelves, you can attach your luggage tags to the shelves themselves. This keeps your identification details easily accessible, and you won't have to worry about tags getting snagged on conveyor belts or other luggage during handling.

What to write on the tag

When it comes to what you should write on your luggage tag, it's important to include enough information for airlines to contact you quickly without providing sensitive personal information.

• An up-to-date phone number or email address. To keep your main email address private, set up a secondary email just for travel.
• Your name.
• Your flight number and hotel information so that airlines can return luggage to you at your destination, rather than your home address. Be careful with these two pieces of information, as they provide revealing details that you may want to keep private.
• For added security, write a unique codeword or PIN on your luggage tag. If someone claims to have your bag, you can verify it by asking for this code.
• If you are an international traveller, include your home and destination addresses.
• Include a local contact number, such as that of your hotel, in case your primary phone number is not reachable.
• Avoid including your home address on your luggage tag for safety reasons.

How to attach the tag

Attaching a luggage tag to your suitcase is a simple yet critical step in ensuring the security and smooth handling of your bags during your travels. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to attach a luggage tag to your suitcase:

Step 1: Prepare the Luggage Tag

If you have a tie-in luggage tag, start by sliding a luggage loop or durable zip tie into the slot of the tag. This will be used to secure the tag to the handle or strap of your suitcase. For leather belted luggage tags, simply open the buckle to prepare for the next step.

Step 2: Position the Luggage Tag

Place the luggage tag on the exterior handle of your suitcase. This is one of the most common and effective ways to attach a luggage tag, as it is easily visible to both airport staff and fellow travellers. Make sure the tag is attached to a part of the luggage that is secure and will not come loose or break free. If using a suitcase with built-in shelves, you can attach the tag to the shelves themselves for easy accessibility.

Step 3: Secure the Luggage Tag

For tie-in luggage tags, slide the loop or zip tie under the bag's handle or strap and pull it tight. Then, follow by sliding the tag through the long slotted end of the strap to secure it in place. For leather belted luggage tags, slide the tag onto the luggage handle and close the buckle securely around the handle.

Step 4: Additional Considerations

To protect your luggage tag from wear and tear, consider using a luggage tag holder or sleeve. These transparent plastic covers shield the tag from dirt, moisture, and rough handling, ensuring your contact information remains legible. Additionally, make sure your tag is easily visible and not obscured by other tags or decorations. Avoid overcrowding the handle or strap with too many accessories.

Step 5: Include Essential Information

The primary purpose of a luggage tag is to provide necessary information in case your bag is misplaced. Include your first and last name, up-to-date phone number or email address, and where the bag should be sent. You can also add your social media handle or a photo of yourself to make it easier for someone to identify you and reunite you with your luggage.

Step 6: Attach a Second Luggage Tag Inside

In addition to the external luggage tag, it is recommended to pack a second label or tag inside your bag on top of your belongings. This serves as a backup in case the external tag is damaged or removed during transit.

Choosing the right tag

Durability and Quality

Opt for tags made from durable and high-quality materials such as plastic, silicone, metal, or leather. Leather tags can be long-lasting and stylish, but they require proper care. Consider the attachment mechanism as well—strong straps, clips, or stainless steel loops will prevent the tag from falling off during transit.

Visibility and Recognition

Select a tag that is easily recognisable and stands out from the crowd. Bright colours, unique patterns, or personalised touches like monograms or photos can make your luggage distinct. This not only helps you spot your bag quickly but also deters potential thieves.

Privacy and Security

Look for tags with privacy flaps or shields that cover your personal information. Lockable tags provide an extra layer of security, especially when travelling to destinations with higher incidents of theft. Smart tags or electronic tags with radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology offer advanced security by storing your data electronically, making it accessible only to authorised users.

Ease of Updating Information

Choose a tag with a removable card or insert so you can easily update your contact details as needed. This is particularly important if you travel frequently or have multiple trips planned, as having up-to-date information increases the chances of your luggage being correctly identified and returned if misplaced.

Compatibility with Luggage Type

Consider the type of luggage you have and how the tag will attach to it. For suitcases with built-in shelves, you can attach tags directly to the shelves for easy access and to prevent snagging on conveyor belts. If you have a traditional suitcase, opt for tags that securely attach to the exterior handle, ensuring they are visible and not overcrowded by other tags or accessories.

Special Features

Some tags offer additional features like waterproof capabilities, which are ideal for adventure trips involving water-based activities or rugged terrain. You can also find luggage tag holders or sleeves that protect your tags from wear and tear, keeping your contact information legible throughout your journey.

Extra precautions

• Use lockable luggage tags: For added security, use lockable luggage tags that can be fastened with a secure lock. This prevents unauthorised removal or tampering with your identification details. This is especially useful when travelling to destinations with higher incidents of baggage mishandling or theft.
• Duplicate tags: Place a duplicate tag or a travel itinerary with your contact information inside your luggage. This helps airport personnel reunite you with your belongings in case the external tag gets lost or damaged during transit.
• Luggage tag holders: Invest in luggage tag holders or sleeves to protect your tags from wear and tear. Transparent plastic sleeves shield the tags from dirt, moisture, and rough handling, ensuring your contact information remains legible and intact.
• Incorporate tags into luggage with shelves: If your suitcase has built-in shelves, attach the tags to the shelves. This keeps your identification details easily accessible and reduces the risk of tags getting snagged on conveyor belts or other luggage during handling.
• Avoid overcrowding: Ensure your luggage tags are easily visible and not obscured by other tags or decorations. Avoid overcrowding the handle or strap with too many accessories, as this can make it challenging for airport staff to read the necessary information quickly.
• Personalise your tags: Add a unique identifier or distinguishing feature to your luggage tags to make your luggage stand out. This can help deter potential thieves and make it easier for you to spot your bag on the carousel.
• Keep tags updated: As your contact information or travel plans change, remember to update your luggage tags accordingly. Having up-to-date tags ensures your bags are correctly identified and returned to you if they are misplaced.
• Register your luggage: Some airlines and luggage manufacturers offer luggage registration services that allow you to register your bag's unique identification number. This can expedite the process of locating and returning your bag if it is lost.
• Use technology: Consider using GPS tracking devices, Bluetooth-enabled luggage tags, or QR code tags to enhance the security of your luggage. These technologies can help you locate your bags and send notifications to your smartphone if they are moved outside a specified range.
• Double-check tags during layovers: During multi-leg journeys, it's essential to double-check that your luggage tags are still securely attached after each segment of your trip. Airport handling processes can be rough on luggage, and tags may become loose or damaged.

Frequently asked questions