Remember the days when a suitcase was just a heavy, boxy thing with a single handle and absolutely no wheels? You’d lug it through the airport, sweating buckets, and hope your arm didn’t fall off before you reached the check-in counter. These days, suitcases are a marvel—lightweight, four-wheeled, and available in every colour of the rainbow.
But as it turns out, that bright, eye-catching suitcase you picked up to stand out on the baggage carousel might be attracting more than just your attention.
A recent warning from security expert Shahzad Ali, CEO of Get Licensed, has sparked a lively debate about whether that bright, eye-catching suitcase is really the best choice for your next trip.
While many of us have been tempted by the cheerful reds, vibrant blues, or even the occasional floral print, Ali suggests that standing out from the crowd could actually make you a target for thieves.
He explained: ‘Although a new and colourful suitcase may look more fashionable, it won’t only be attractive to you. It’s best to choose a more common-looking suitcase, and if possible, a worn-out one, so as not to stand out from the crowd, and with it, a high-quality padlock. This can make a big difference in keeping your items safe.’
So, should we all be swapping our jazzy luggage for something a little more drab? Not so fast! The world of travel advice is rarely black and white (or navy and grey, as the case may be).
The Great Luggage Colour Debate
On one hand, a suitcase that blends in is less likely to catch the eye of opportunistic thieves. On the other hand, if your bag looks like every other black or navy case on the carousel, you run the risk of someone else accidentally (or not-so-accidentally) walking off with it.
To help with this, Ali suggests adding a subtle identifier, like a ribbon or sticker, to your bag. But even this advice is up for debate. Some baggage handlers warn that ribbons and other extras can get caught in airport machinery or interfere with automatic scanners, potentially delaying your bag or even causing damage.
‘You can add an identifier, such as a ribbon or sticker, to avoid getting your luggage mistaken for someone else’s whilst still remaining subtle,’ he shared.
Meanwhile, airlines like Ryanair have recommended the opposite: ‘Make it easier to spot your checked-in luggage on the carousel, especially if your luggage is black, navy or grey (like 99.9 per cent of the population). Add a colourful luggage tag or ribbon to the handle so that there’s no confusion on arrival.’
Of course, a padlock is also a must—but make sure it’s travel-approved. Airport security may need to open your bag for inspection, and a non-approved lock could mean your suitcase gets damaged in the process. Look for TSA-approved locks or those recommended by your airline.
So, what’s a savvy traveller to do?
No matter what colour your suitcase is, there are a few golden rules for keeping your belongings safe:
- Never pack valuables in checked luggage: Always keep important items—like jewellery, electronics, and medication—in your carry-on.
- Consider a luggage tracker: Devices like Apple AirTags can help you locate your bag if it goes missing.
- Get travel insurance: It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind, especially if your luggage is lost or delayed.
- Check if your airline offers tracking: Some, like Virgin Australia, now provide extra tracking features for checked bags.
What Happens If Your Luggage Goes Missing?
Here’s a handy bit of info: airlines are bound by the Montreal Convention, which means if your luggage is lost, they’re liable to pay you up to around $2,607. For domestic travel in Australia, you’re also protected by local consumer laws, so don’t be afraid to stand up for your rights if your bag goes walkabout.
The bottom line? Whether you’re a fan of classic black or you love a suitcase that screams ‘holiday!’, the most important thing is to keep your belongings safe and secure. If you do opt for a colourful case, take extra precautions—use a sturdy lock, avoid packing valuables, and consider a tracker for added peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
- Security experts warn against using brightly coloured or flashy suitcases, as they may attract thieves – a plain or worn-looking case with a sturdy, approved padlock is a safer option.
- Adding ribbons or stickers to identify your suitcase is debated: while it can help you spot your luggage, baggage handlers caution that extra attachments can interfere with airport scanners.
- Airlines advise against both very dark and overly bright luggage – the key is to use a discreet and recognisable marker, like a colourful luggage tag, rather than standing out too much.
- No matter what suitcase you choose, never pack valuables in your checked luggage, consider using a tracker like an AirTag, and be aware that under the Montreal Convention, you’re entitled to compensation if your luggage is lost.
We’d love to hear from you, members! Do you prefer a bright suitcase or something more low-key? Have you ever had luggage go missing, or do you have any tips for keeping your bags safe? Share your stories and advice in the comments below—let’s help each other travel smarter and safer!
