Luggage Tips: 10 Terrific Ideas on How to Make Them Stand Out
Are you tired of being the black sheep of the luggage carousel and need ideas to make them stand out?
Well, fear not my fellow traveler! We have some tips to help you make your suitcase stand out like a “black diamond” in a sea of plain ol’ black suitcases.
First things first, let’s address the elephant in the room (or rather, on the carousel) – black is the most popular color for luggage and it’s easy to understand why.
The Facts About Black Luggage
The transportation of luggage from one destination to another is brutal. Bags are tossed, thrown, and conveyed from point to point so they are bound to incur damage. It’s popular because it is less likely to show dirt and scratches, making it look newer and cleaner for longer.
Black luggage is also a choice among travelers because it is a classic color that never goes out of style.
Often used by business travelers, it gives a professional and sophisticated look. Black luggage is often perceived as more secure than other as it doesn’t draw attention and makes it a target for theft or baggage handlers who might be tempted to take it home by mistake.
Did you see the picture of the sea of luggage that was sitting at the airports recently? 95% were black! I’m sure many wish they had used some of these DIY luggage identifiers.
Ideas to Make Your Luggage Stand Out
Here are some ways to make yours stand out so that it’s like a bright light in a sea of darkness.
Belts and Straps
Luggage straps are a convenient way to identify your bags, they also help secure and hold bags closed. They can be made of various materials such as nylon or leather and come in different widths and lengths and locking features.
T-shirt
Using a plain t-shirt that you own is not only economical but very practical. You can take an old, but interesting, t-shirt and “dress” in your suitcase. Just put the handle through the neck hole and tuck the sleeves inside.
You will also need to make sure that the shirt is snug enough to stay on or loose enough that you can tie it on.
Apply Tape
We use brightly colored duct tape on our handles. It works perfectly! Choose interesting colors like pink, blue, and orange and add them to the sides, top, front, and back of your bags. You can also wrap it around the handle. Some have appealing designs and it’s a great way to personalize them.
Bandanas and Ribbons
If you’re not quite ready to give up on your trusty black suitcase, there are still ways to make it stand out. A brightly colored ribbon tied to the handle can be a beacon on the carousel of black luggage. The entire world does this, especially in Europe. So, the more unique the pattern, the better.
Suitcase Covers
You can add a suitcase skin or cover to give your suitcase a unique pattern and make it easier to spot. There are several artistic designs available to purchase online.
What I love most is that they also help protect your bags from marks and they work well on hard and soft sided luggage.
Stickers and Iron-ons
Another tip is to personalize your hard suitcase, like adding a sticker or a decal that shows your favorite band, sports team, or even a picture of your pet, this way your suitcase will be the “rockstar” or the “superfan” among the crowd.
You can also use iron-on if you have soft suitcases. Just be careful to set the iron to the right temperature so you don’t melt your suitcase.
Fabric Handle Covers
Fabric handle covers are sleeves that slip over the existing handles to provide extra comfort and grip. They are often made of neoprene or padded fabric and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
They are a great way to personalize and protect the handles while making it easier to carry.
Customized or Novelty Luggage Tags
Luggage tags are the ultimate accessory for your suitcase, because let’s face it, no one wants to accidentally grab the wrong bag at baggage claim and end up in Timbuktu instead of Tahiti.
Plus, with your own personalized tag, your bags will stand out like a diamond in a sea of black suitcases. And who doesn’t want to add a little personality to their suitcase?
Paint
Paint is a cool and colorful way to make your bags stand out. It doesn’t work well on the plastic hardcase or handles. However, you can create designs, paint your name, or a favorite travel quote. You’ll want to get paint that is specifically made for fabrics so that it doesn’t peel or flake off.
Colorful and Unique Designs
But just because everyone else is doing it, doesn’t mean you have to. So why not break the mold and opt for a suitcase in a bright and bold color? Take a look at these unique carry-on spinner bags for your next destination.
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Final Thoughts on How to Make Your Luggage Stand Out
Statistics have shown that black suitcases are the most common color on airport carousels, making it easy for travelers to mistakenly grab the wrong suitcase.
This can lead to confusion and frustration, as well as the potential loss or delay of important items.
With these ideas, you can quickly identify your bags and be on your way home or to the hotel.
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Safe travels!
