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Life Tips 06/07/2025 02:10

Travelers warned: This one type of suitcase is more likely to go missing than other bags.

Expert Jamie Frazer said that you should avoid this one thing to keep your luggage safe
Though summer is still months away, many travelers are already planning their warm-weather getaways — and that includes picking out the perfect suitcase.
With so many options on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Do you go for something bold and colorful? A hard-shell or soft-shell case? Large or compact?
Once you’ve finally found the ideal travel companion, you might feel a sense of relief — until you arrive at your destination and realize your luggage didn’t make the journey with you.
That’s right — after clearing TSA and boarding your flight, most of us expect a seamless bag pick-up at the other end. But there's one common mistake travelers make when selecting their suitcase — and it could increase the chances of your bag going missing.
The Problem with Black Luggage
According to a survey by Eminent, one specific type of suitcase is 40% more likely to get lost than others: black, hard-sided luggage.
Why? Simply because black is the most popular suitcase color — making it much harder to distinguish on a crowded baggage carousel.
Travel expert Jamie Frazer, who works with US-based summer camp organization Wild Packs, told Lancs Live that black hard-shell suitcases are the most widely used worldwide. This means they’re often mistaken for someone else’s or overlooked entirely.

“Hard-shell black suitcases are extremely common globally, which makes them harder to identify and more prone to being picked up by mistake or mishandled,” Frazer explained.

“While they might seem like a safe, neutral choice, if your bag goes missing, you’ll want something that stands out — not blends in.”

What You Can Do Instead
If you’re determined to stick with a black suitcase, Frazer recommends arriving at the airport early to allow plenty of time for airline staff to tag and load your bag properly. This can help minimize the risk of it being lost or misdirected.
Better yet, choose luggage that’s brightly colored or has a distinctive design.

“Opt for a vibrant or patterned suitcase that’s easy to spot among dozens of similar bags,” Frazer advised in comments shared by Express.

But if you already own a black suitcase and don't want to invest in a new one, there are still ways to make it more visible. He suggests adding:

  • Bright luggage tags

  • Colorful stickers

  • Patterned straps or ribbons

These accessories can help your suitcase stand out, even if it’s one of many identical bags on the carousel.
Don’t Forget a Luggage Tag
Regardless of the style or color of your suitcase, always attach a clear, secure luggage tag with your contact information.

“Even for carry-on bags, it’s a smart idea to include your name, email, and phone number on a tag,” said Frazer.
“Avoid listing your home address to minimize privacy risks, but do provide details that make it easy for someone to reach you in case your bag goes missing.”

So before you head off on your next adventure, take a moment to rethink your luggage choice. A simple change in color or a few eye-catching add-ons could make the difference between a smooth arrival — and a frustrating case of lost baggage.

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