This one suitcase color and type is most likely to get lost at airports; learn how to avoid losing your luggage
When preparing for a holiday, picking the perfect suitcase often takes precedence. Size, durability, and style are typical considerations, but there’s one factor you may not have thought of: the color of your luggage. Travel experts are warning that the most common suitcase color — black — may be the one most likely to go missing or be misidentified at airports.
Black Luggage: A Popular But Risky Choice
A recent survey by luggage brand Eminent revealed that over 40% of travelers opt for black hard-sided suitcases. While black is sleek, versatile, and timeless, this choice comes with a significant drawback. According to travel expert Jamie Frazer, black luggage is the hardest to identify on a baggage carousel, making it much more likely to go missing.
Frazer explains, “Hard-sided black suitcases are the most common luggage type globally. With so many bags looking alike, it becomes incredibly difficult for passengers and airport staff to distinguish one suitcase from another.” This confusion often leads to mix-ups, especially during busy travel seasons when baggage carousels are crowded.
Why the Color Matters
The challenge with black luggage is its prevalence. It’s not just a matter of style — it’s about visibility. Since many travelers choose this color, spotting your bag among a sea of black suitcases can be nearly impossible.
Frazer advises travelers with black suitcases to arrive at the airport early. “Arriving ahead of time allows airline staff to take extra care when tagging and loading your bag. This reduces the chance of your luggage being mishandled or misplaced.”
Simple Ways to Make Your Luggage Stand Out
For those who want to avoid the hassle of lost luggage, Frazer recommends opting for a colorful or uniquely marked suitcase. Brightly colored bags are far easier to spot on the carousel than black ones, making it less likely they will get mixed up with another traveler’s luggage.
If you’re set on your black suitcase, don’t worry — there are easy ways to personalize it to make it stand out. “Attach vibrant luggage tags, patterned straps, or colorful stickers to your bag,” Frazer suggests. These simple additions can make a huge difference in ensuring your luggage is easy to identify.
Don’t Forget Your Contact Information
In addition to personalizing your suitcase, don’t forget to attach a secure luggage tag with your contact details. Frazer recommends including your name, phone number, and email address. However, avoid putting your home address on the tag for security reasons.
Make Traveling Stress-Free
While black luggage remains a popular choice, personalizing it with unique identifiers can help prevent frustration at the baggage carousel. Whether you add a bright ribbon, custom stickers, or a bold luggage strap, making your suitcase stand out will save you time and stress.
By following these expert tips, travelers can avoid the headache of lost luggage and focus on enjoying their trip without unnecessary worry. Remember, a few small changes can make all the difference in ensuring your luggage makes it to the right place, at the right time.
