What to Put On A Luggage Tag?

When traveling, a luggage tag with your name and contact information is critical for keeping track of your belongings.

Travel experts agree on the necessity of name, cell phone number, and email on luggage tags, but there’s some debate on what other information you should put.

So, read on to find out the most important travel tips regarding what to put on your luggage. 

What Should I Put on My Luggage Tag?

There are two must-haves for an external luggage tag: your name and contact information. You should have an identifier with this information on your carry-on luggage and your checked luggage. 

Also, you can go ahead and put one tag on each additional item you have, like diaper bags and car seats .

On these identifiers, you should include a mobile phone number and alternative contacts. And make sure you put the area code, extensions, and international codes for international travel.

You should also use e-mails as secondary contact information.

Finally, if you have a child flying with you, you should put at least two emergency contact numbers on their bag and on a tag inside their pocket. Thus, on the slim chance your child gets lost, airport workers can quickly get in contact with someone the child knows. 

Should I Use My Full Name?

Some experts say yes. Others say it’s better to use your first initial followed by your surname on your external tag.

Are There Recommendations for Listing Email Information?

Experts suggest using a secondary email for your luggage tag info, or even creating an account solely for travel. This way, you won’t get travel-related spam.

Should I Include My Destination?

Most travel experts recommend having a destination tag. Listing your destination makes it easier for airport personnel to ensure your bag arrives at the same place you do.

Many luggage tags have a place on the bottom of the tag for listing the destination as a precaution against lost luggage.

For work-related travel, you can write your work address as your destination or return location. Or, you can put the hotel phone number on your identifier. 

Should I Put Anything More than the Airport Issued Destination?

Most airlines will probably have the destination city and airport on their tag. You don’t usually need more than that.

Some people suggest having a hotel or other location listed as a contact or a place to send your lost luggage. However, it’s just as easy to provide that information to the airline over the phone if something happens.

What Should I Avoid Putting on My Luggage Tag?

Many travel advisors don’t suggest putting your home address on your luggage. There’s a chance that thieves can use your home address to target you for a robbery since they know you’ll be away.

Other experts even recommend against origin-specific information or indicators, such as logos or country flags—especially when traveling internationally, where this can make you a target for unfriendly individuals.

You also should never put your itinerary information on or in your carry-ons or check-in luggage. 

Are There Any Recommendations for Baggage Tags?

Overall, it’s a great idea to use a durable tag with a secure connection and a tag protector. Secure connections make sure no one can easily remove the tag.

Meanwhile, luggage tag protectors keep your information intact. They can also prevent someone from scanning your data off of your tag easily.

Should I Use Electronic Tags?

Electronic tags are becoming more popular among travelers, along with tracking technology of various kinds.

There is some evidence that electronic tags are more secure than regular tags. However, they aren’t always as readily visible on the carousel, and they may not help you find your bags quickly in a busy airport.

Also, they aren’t any more helpful at identifying a missing bag than other tags. 

Should I Use Personalized Luggage Tags?

Personalizing tags is an excellent way to make sure your luggage stands out. Choose bright colors and images.

You can also use stickers to decorate your luggage and your luggage tag, so it’s easy to find the right tag. 

Are There Benefits to Certain Colors on Tags?

Bright colors such as yellow, orange, and red are generally more visible. Yet, because they’re so eye-catching, they’re also a popular choice to put on luggage tags. 

But, whatever you choose, put identical tags on all your bags to make finding luggage easier. This way you won’t have to spend more than a few hours at the airport. 

Are There Benefits to Relying on Airline-Issued Luggage Tags?

Airline-issued tags are usually free, and they often come with destination and flight information already printed on them.

These luggage tags also typically contain tracking information if your bag gets misplaced by baggage handlers. 

The downside is that they’re often paper, which tears easily. And they don’t stand out on a busy airport baggage claim.

Do I Even Need a Visible Luggage Tag if I Have an Electronic Tag or Tracker?

If you have electronic luggage tags, you don’t really need a visible luggage tag. But, lost bags with visible contact details may be easier to get back to you. 

Where Should I Attach Luggage Tags?

You should have two luggage tags: one for your checked bag and one for your carry-on. And you ought to put these identifiers somewhere visible where other items can’t easily rip them off.