Baggage handler issues warning to anyone that ties a ribbon around luggage

Is there a bigger nightmare scenario than losing your suitcase on holiday? It's hard to think of a worse way to start what should be a trip of relaxation and adventure then having to stress about all your lost possessions.

With the vast majority of suitcases all looking vaguely similar - dark coloured heavy rectangles on wheels - travellers have long been making their baggage stand out from the crowd by attaching something that distinguishes it.

Be it colourful bandanas, ribbons, name tags, straps, scrunchies, just a little something different to ensure the right bag is picked up and and the trip can be enjoyed without the crushing realisation you've taken a stranger's clothes.

However, one baggage handler has explained how you might actually be taking a bigger risk by doing so.

Holidaymakers might want to reconsider adding a ribbon to their suitcases (Getty stock image)

One vigilant passenger even strapped a GoPro onto their luggage to keep track on it after it left their possession and began its journey along the maze of conveyer belts.

Which says a lot about some of our trust issues, but that's another story.

Travellers add trinkets, key rings, luggage tags, colourful strings, or stickers to their bags so that they're easy to clock when coming around on the carousel - and tying a ribbon on the handle is also a popular method.

But according to a baggage handler at Dublin Airport, distinguishing your luggage in this way could end up completely derailing your holiday.

The employee, named John, explained that personalising your precious baggage could actually do more harm than good, as your belongings might not even make it onto the plane.

He told RSVP Live: "Ribbons people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall.

A baggage handler at Dublin Airport warned personalising your luggage can sometimes do more harm than good (Getty stock images)

"If the bag can’t be scanned automatically it can end up in manual processing, which could mean your bag doesn’t make it to the flight," he added.

"Take old stickers off the bag, it can cause confusion with the scanning process."

John also shared a couple of handy tips for travellers to take note of if they want a stress-free experience with their luggage, such as placing your suitcase wheels up to avoid damage.

The one thing you should never pack in a suitcase

John also gave another piece of advice that he warned travellers to follow above all others.

His golden rule is to never pack Marzipan in your luggage - so if you're something of a baker, you better think of a flight-friendly back up to take with you.

The baggage handler explained that the thick paste made from ground almonds, sugar and egg has the 'same density' as some explosives - so don't be surprised if you and you're bag are pulled aside for a thorough search.

Missing the family holiday for a bit of Marzipan just isn't worth it really, is it?

So it sounds like it's best to leave the ribbons and cake supplies at home if you want to make your flight this summer.