When it comes to choosing luggage, most people instinctively reach for black, grey, or navy suitcases. They’re safe, classic, and seem practical — until you’re standing at the baggage carousel with several other suitcases that look exactly the same.

Suddenly, your suitcase isn’t so easy to spot, and you run the risk of picking up the wrong one — or someone else mistaking yours for theirs. Ryanair has warned passengers who regularly travel with black, navy or grey suitcases to ‘change’ their baggage to avoid any confusion upon arrival. The budget carrier advised holidaymakers to make their checked-in luggage more distinctive on the carousel due to the prevalence of these colours.

In a statement last year, Ryanair said: “Make it easier to spot your checked-in luggage on the carousel, especially if your luggage is black, navy or grey (like 99.9 percent of the population). Add a colourful luggage tag or ribbon to the handle so that there’s no confusion on arrival.”

Ryanair also recommends passengers create copies of their passport, driving licence, and/or ID card and email them to themselves.

It’s also suggested to photograph these documents and store them on your phone for offline use at your destination.

According to a survey conducted by luggage brand Eminent, over 40% of travelers opt for black hard-sided suitcases.

Jamie Frazer, a travel expert with US summer camp Wild Packs, told the Economic Times: “Vibrant colors are far easier to spot on the baggage carousel than the typical black hard-sided suitcase. If you still want to use a black suitcase, include colorful luggage tags, stickers, or patterned straps so that it stands out in a crowd.”

He added: “Include your name, phone number, and email address on the tag, as these are typically the quickest ways to get in touch. However, avoid listing your home address to reduce safety risks.”