Millions of travelers attach colorful ribbons, straps, and other accessories to their luggage so they can quickly recognize their bags at the airport carousel. While this may seem like a simple and useful trick, airport baggage handlers warn that certain decorations can actually create problems during the automated baggage process.

The main concern is that oversized or loosely attached items can interfere with automated barcode scanners. Airport baggage systems rely on these scanners to read the luggage tag and send each bag toward the correct flight. If something blocks the barcode or prevents the scanner from reading it properly, the bag may be diverted for manual handling.

Airport workers have warned that this popular travel habit could cause your luggage to miss its intended flight. As the original article explains, colorful accessories can “jam automated barcode scanners” and potentially leave your bag behind while you continue to your destination.

Travelers who want an easy way to identify their luggage should therefore be careful about what they attach to the handle. Small, secure items are less likely to interfere with scanning, while large ribbons, bulky decorations, or anything hanging near the luggage tag may create unnecessary problems.

Before heading to the airport, check your suitcase and make sure the barcode on the luggage tag is clearly visible. A little caution could help your bag move smoothly through the airport system—and prevent an unpleasant surprise when you arrive at the baggage carousel.