The A, B, C’s of Luggage Tags

june-luggageTags

Have you ever wondered the best way to personalize luggage tags?  There is the typical “name, address and phone number” answer but it really depends on how the tags are being used and who will be using them to know what’s appropriate.

Of course luggage tags can be used for suitcases, which is the traditional purpose.  But some other uses include identification of gym bags, backpacks, diaper bags, camp bags, athletic bags, computer bags, ski bags, golf bags, tote bags, musical instrument cases, brief cases and more.  Deciding which type of tag to choose and what information to include depends on the purpose of the tags.

For adults using luggage tags for suitcases while traveling and for other bags being carried by adults, the printed information should primarily include the following information:

(1) Your full name or at least your last name;

(2) A mobile phone number.  If your luggage is lost, the mobile number will be the easiest way to reach you. If there is no mobile number available use a home number;

(3) An email address.  Depending how security-conscious you are, you may consider skipping your primary personal e-mail address and setting up secondary e-mail just for your travel purposes;

(4) An alternate phone number. Consider listing an extended family member’s number who can assist if you are on the road.

Remember, since your luggage is out of your hands when you do short or long domestic or international travel, you do not want to publicize too much personal information. A number of experts suggest not listing a home address, as it can easily alert burglars that you are away from home when they see you traveling.  And it’s very infrequent that anyone would ship or deliver a lost suitcase to your home without contacting you first.

For items being used by teens or adults, the luggage tag should include a full name (or at least last name) and a home or mobile phone number.  If the tag is being used on a young child’s bag, for security reasons, consider simply an imprint such as: “Call (123) 456-7890 if Found” without a name or other information at all to prevent any issues with strangers.

If you wonder what type of luggage tags are best, we would suggest adding brightly colored luggage tag if you use a standard black suitcase.  This will make finding your suitcase much easier as there are usually so many bags that look the same when traveling.  A unique tag might even prevent the wrong party from picking up your suitcase thinking it was theirs.

Luggage tags are a practical and stylish way to make identifying bags easily.  When selecting a luggage tag you might notice different materials, such as laminated, brass, leather, or acrylic.  They are all very strong and useful.  So simply determine a style you feel the user will enjoy.  There are designs and materials suitable for everything from executive travel to a diaper bag!

Best wishes,

Renee