Travel experts warns Brits not to go on holiday with a black suitcase

07 February 2024 , 11:31

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These kind of bags should be steered clear of (Image: Getty Images/Tetra images RF)

A travel expert has warned holidaymakers to steer clear of 'black suitcases'.

Johnny Jet, a travel blogger, revealed that black hard-sided luggage is the most common and therefore the most likely to get lost or stolen as it's hard to tell apart from other bags.

He suggests avoiding black bags, while a different travel expert has suggested that very brightly coloured luggage is also best steered clear of when packing for a holiday.

A luggage executive told Johnny about the problem with black hard-case suitcases: "In the baggage industry, it's 22HW type and almost regarded as the default bag type. If your bag is missing, you don't want to be the black hard one, you want to be the green one," he recalled them saying.

When luggage teams are informed a bag is missing, they can check usual spots where it might have ended up like in lost property, loading bays or unloading bays. If it's a bag that stands out, it's more likely to be spotted quickly, while a bag that looks like the 50 other cases going on the next plane has a higher chance of being missed.

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Johnny Jet suggested avoiding black bags (Getty Images)

If you own a black hard-sided suitcase, it's wise to add something that makes it stand out, like a strap, an Apple AirTag or SmartTag. You can even get luggage straps with your name stitched on them or simply tie something noticeable around the handle like a bright address tag.

A German airport recently suggested holidaymakers choose coloured luggage to avoid airport delays.

"Many people travel with black suitcases on wheels which makes identifying them very time-intensive. No matter which company you buy your luggage from, just make sure it's not a black hard-sided suitcase because you want your luggage to be easy to identify," Johnny jet went on.

While you might want to pick a bright suitcase for your holiday, a security pro says it's not a good idea.

Shahzad Ali, who knows all about staying safe, tells people to use dark, plain bags to avoid 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 as to not stand out from the crowd and with it, a high-quality padlock.

"This can make a big difference in keeping your items safe. 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."

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Andrea Blazquez