As the holiday season approaches, many travelers are gearing up for trips to the airport, whether it’s to reunite with family during Christmas or escape to a sunny destination for some winter warmth. With airports expected to be busier than usual, the inevitable waiting periods at security checkpoints and passport control can be a hassle. However, one travel expert suggests a simple and cost-free trick to potentially save time during baggage claim.
According to Hadleigh Diamond, the commercial director at SCS Chauffeurs, affixing a fragile sticker to your checked luggage could lead to it being loaded onto the aircraft last, resulting in it being among the first items to emerge on the baggage carousel at the destination airport. Fragile stickers, typically provided by check-in staff at no extra cost, are typically used for passengers carrying delicate items like glassware or ceramics but can be requested by anyone for their baggage.
Diamond emphasizes the significance of this tactic in enhancing the overall travel experience, noting that waiting endlessly at the baggage carousel can significantly impact the enjoyment of a trip. By discreetly requesting a fragile sticker from the check-in agent, travelers may increase the chances of their luggage being prioritized for quicker retrieval. While the effectiveness of this strategy may vary across different airports, generally, items labeled as ‘fragile’ are often loaded last in the aircraft hold to prevent damage, potentially leading to expedited baggage handling.
This practical advice is not limited to impatient travelers but also benefits those with tight connections or scheduled transfers, as it can help minimize the stress of waiting for luggage delays, which can extend up to 40 minutes during peak travel times. Additionally, travelers are cautioned against using certain luggage identification methods, such as tying ribbons onto suitcases, as loose items can pose hazards by getting entangled in the baggage carousel machinery, causing delays for both the owners and fellow passengers.
By incorporating such insightful tips into travel preparations, passengers can streamline the post-flight experience and ensure a smoother journey from touchdown to baggage collection.
