Planning your next holiday and thinking of buying a new suitcase? Wait! You might want to reconsider your choice of color, or want to make an informed decision while buying. This is because according to a survey by Eminent, more than 40% of suitcases purchased globally are black, making them notoriously difficult to identify on baggage carousels.

With regard to this, travel expert Jamie Frazer, from US summer camp Wild Packs, explains why black luggage isn’t the best option. “Hard-sided black suitcases are the most common globally, making them the hardest to identify and most likely to go missing,” he says. “If your bag is misplaced, you don’t want it to blend in with the countless others.”

What should you do then?

Frazer recommends choosing luggage in bright colors or distinctive patterns to help it stand out. Vibrant suitcases are significantly easier to spot among the numerous black bags on baggage carousels. For those with black luggage, he suggests adding unique identifiers, such as colorful luggage tags, stickers, or patterned straps, to make recognition effortless.

Tips to avoid the risk of losing your luggage

o minimise the risk of your suitcase being lost or misplaced, Frazer advises travellers to:

1. Arrive early: Checking in your luggage well in advance gives airline staff enough time to tag and load it correctly.

2. Use secure luggage tags: Attach a clear, durable tag with your name, phone number, and email. Avoid including your home address for safety reasons.

3. Personalize your bag: Try adding colorful ribbons or custom-made posters to easily distinguish your bag from others.

Why black is risky

The ubiquity of black suitcases often leads to confusion and mix-ups, especially in busy airports. Frazer highlights the importance of being proactive: “Personalizing your luggage is a simple step that ensures your travel experience remains stress-free.”