A luggage tag once saved my suitcase. My bag ended up in Amsterdam while I was in Berlin, and the only reason Lufthansa could reach me was the mobile number on my tag. The airline’s paper label had come off somewhere in handling. Since then I use sturdy metal tags with a steel loop attachment that will not rip off no matter how roughly the bag gets thrown around. It is a tiny investment against the massive inconvenience of lost luggage.
Luggage tags help identify your bags and get them returned if lost. A good tag should be durable enough to survive baggage handling and clearly display your contact information.
What Information to Include
- Name: Full name or surname only
- Phone number: Mobile number with country code
- Email address: More private than a home address
- Hotel name: For your destination (optional)
Avoid including your full home address – it tells people your house is empty. An email address and phone number are usually enough for airlines to contact you.
Materials
Leather: Durable and professional-looking. Can be personalised with initials.
Metal/aluminium: Very durable. Won’t tear or wear out. Some come with steel cable loops.
Plastic: Affordable and widely available. Look for ones with secure closures.
Silicone: Flexible and colourful. Good for quick identification at baggage claim.
Features to Consider
- Privacy cover: Flap that hides your contact details from casual view
- Secure attachment: Steel loops or strong straps that won’t break off
- Bright colours: Makes your bag easier to spot
- Removable card: Allows you to update information for each trip
- Size: Large enough to read but not so big it catches on things
Where to Attach
Attach to the handle or strap where the tag hangs freely. Make sure it’s secure – loose attachments can get pulled off during handling.
Put tags on both checked and carry-on bags. You may need to gate-check a carry-on occasionally, and tags help in that situation.
Tips
- Remove old airline tags after each trip – they can cause routing confusion
- Take a photo of your packed bag before checking it
- Use a distinctive tag or ribbon to spot your bag quickly on the carousel
- Consider putting contact information inside your bag as backup
