Black is the most popular colour for suitcases, while blue and grey are also common. (Image: Getty)
When it comes to packing for a trip, many travellers are unknowingly putting themselves at greater risk of losing their luggage.
According to recent reports, the colour of your suitcase could play a big role in whether it makes it to your destination or goes missing along the way.
Shockingly, it turns out that black is the most commonly lost suitcase colour at airports.
While black remains the top choice for many travellers due to its sleek and professional appearance, it also poses a significant issue for baggage handlers.
With so many travellers opting for similar dark-coloured bags, black luggage easily blends in with the crowd, making it difficult to spot or differentiate at the baggage reclaim area.
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: The first suitcases were invented by British businessmen in the late 19th century. (Image: Getty)
A report from The Economic Times highlights that black bags are often mistakenly taken by other passengers or mishandled by airport staff.
The dark tones make black suitcases almost indistinguishable from one another on the conveyor belt, especially when flights are packed with passengers and luggage.
This confusion increases the chances of your bag being left behind, sent to the wrong location, or mistakenly placed on a different flight.
Airports around the world are busy hubs where thousands of bags are being processed simultaneously. A suitcase that blends into the crowd is much more likely to be overlooked or incorrectly routed.
Even though many airlines are improving baggage handling systems, the sheer volume of luggage means that darker bags like black still face a higher chance of being lost or misdirected.
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Luggage tags should include your full name, an up-to-date phone number, and an email address (Image: Getty)
Additionally, black suitcases are often harder to spot when they’re placed on the carousel, especially in low-light environments or when there’s a sea of similarly coloured bags.
This increases the time you spend waiting to retrieve your belongings, and in some cases, might result in your suitcase being mistakenly claimed by someone else.
The solution? Choose a suitcase colour that stands out. Brightly coloured luggage is far easier to identify on the baggage carousel, reducing the risk of mistakes.
Well-made suitcases can last five to ten years or more with proper care. (Image: Getty)
Bright shades like red, orange, and neon colours are especially effective, as they contrast sharply against the typical dark tones of most bags. Even choosing a suitcase with a bold pattern or a unique design can make all the difference.
Beyond the colour of your suitcase, there are other ways to make your luggage more identifiable.
Adding brightly coloured luggage tags, straps, or stickers with your contact information will help you spot your bag quickly and can also help prevent it from being taken by mistake.
Despite the risk of black bags getting lost, black luggage continues to be the go-to choice for many travellers.
It’s a classic, versatile colour that looks professional and is less likely to show dirt or wear over time. Black bags are also often seen as more durable and stylish, which is why so many choose them.
However, if you travel frequently or have had previous experiences with lost luggage, it might be time to consider a more visible option.
Choosing a suitcase with a unique colour or pattern will not only help you avoid lost luggage but also make your travel experience more seamless.