In a world of Bluetooth trackers and airline luggage tracking services, the humble luggage tag still holds its own as a quick, reliable way to identify your checked bags. Durable luggage tags help you spot your luggage on baggage carousels, and knowing what info to put on a luggage tag can make all the difference if your suitcase is delayed or misplaced. Here, we’ll explain how to best use luggage tags, including where to attach them to your bags, what to write on them, and why you shouldn't rely on airline tags.
What to write on a luggage label
The primary purpose of a luggage tag is to provide needed information should your bag be misplaced, so you need to know what to write on a luggage label. You want the information on your tag to be enough for airlines to contact you quickly without providing sensitive personal information. At a minimum, your luggage tag should include the following:
- Your full name
- An up-to-date phone number or email address. To keep your main email private, set up a secondary email just for travel.
- Your home or return address. Many people write this on the back of their luggage tag insert so it’s hidden from casual observers.
Additionally, some people include their flight number and hotel information so airlines can return luggage to them at their destination rather than return it to a home address. Be careful with these two pieces of information as they provide revealing details you may want kept private. For added security, you can write a unique codeword or PIN onto your luggage tag — if someone claims to have your bag, you can verify it by asking for this code.
When writing down luggage tag information, use clear and legible handwriting or print out the label (printing the label allows you to include more information clearly in the same space if you use a small font size).
Attaching luggage tags can help you avoid losing your bag
Knowing how to attach a luggage tag helps ensure you and your bag arrive at the same location; a luggage tag is useless if it can’t be seen or, worse yet, falls off your bag. Here’s how to attach a luggage tag securely.
When placing your luggage tag, be sure not to attach it to any part of the luggage that could come loose or break free. Consider using tags with clear plastic covers to protect your label from damage.
If you're using a tie-in luggage tag, take the following steps:
- Slide a luggage loop or durable zip tie into the slot of the luggage tag.
- Slide the loop under the bag’s handle or strap.
- Pull the loop or zip tie tight.
Leather belted luggage tags like the Travelpro Travelpro® Essentials™ Leather Luggage Tag attach using this method:
- Open the buckle on the luggage tag.
- Slide the tag onto the luggage handle.
- Close the buckle securely around the handle
Naturally, you’ll want to attach the luggage tag to the outside of your bag, but pack a second label or tag inside the bag on top of your belongings. This second tag is a backup if the external tag is damaged or removed. You can also combine an external luggage tag with an Apple Airtag.
Find Durable Luggage Tags
When looking for luggage tags, consider the appearance of the tag and the materials used in the tag’s manufacture. Appearance is essential for easy identification: a bright red tag, for instance, stands out on the luggage carousel. Durable luggage tags are made from leather, plastic, and metal, which are tougher and more reliable than printed airline tags.
Customization is also important. The Travelpro® Essentials™ Personalization Kit includes a durable leather tag protected by a leather flap and comes with a matching Leather Luggage Carry Handle Wrap and Travel Accessories Pouch. Combining the tag and handle wrap makes identifying luggage a snap, while the leather construction ensures your luggage tag makes the journey undamaged.
TSA luggage tag requirements may not be a thing, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t helpful travel accessories. Combine an eye-catching luggage tag with a well-made Travelpro® checked bag, and your luggage will stand out from the crowd (and be more likely to make it to your destination).
