Former baggage handler shares why Antler sale item keeps cases safe

Patiently waiting at Arrivals for checked luggage to be despatched can feel like it takes forever. With so many similar looking cases chugging along the carousel, spotting the correct case is riddled with risk.

To make sure cases don’t get mixed up many travellers add a ribbon or luggage strap that can be seen from a distance. But according to a baggage handler from Bristol airport this is a habit that could backfire.  The airport employee, named John, explained: “Ribbons people tie onto their suitcases to help identify them can cause issues with the bag being scanned in the baggage hall.”

He warned that if the luggage fails to be scanned automatically, it might be diverted to manual processing, raising the risk of it not making it onto the plane.

John also urged frequent flyers to “take old stickers off the bag” as they can “cause confusion with the scanning process”.

With ribbons not recommended, travellers could consider using suitcase covers instead. Made from soft, stretchy fabric, these easy additions not only make cases easy to identify, they also help to protect cases from dents and scratches and keep unwanted visitors away from their contents. 

But flyers are being urged to choose a very specific type of cover to ensure that that their luggage isn’t manhandled in transit. A former baggage handler on Reddit shared his thoughts on suitcase covers in a thread asking specifically about their suitability.

The user called @stinson16 said: “I used to handle baggage and the only covers I hated were ones where it was hard to quickly grab a handle. Obviously that includes ones that don’t have holes for the side handles, but it also included some of the plastic ones that kind of bubbled up so I had to push it down to slip my fingers into the handle.”

The poster continued: “It sounds silly since it takes barely any effort or time to do that, but it really does mess with the flow when you’re trying to go as fast as you can and get into a rhythm of grab/swing/grab/swing.”

British heritage brand Antler is well known for it’s lust worthy luggage. Right now, buyers can save up to 50% off in the Antler Summer Sale offering rarely available discounts on upscale suitcases, bags and accessories.

Included in the discounts is the Antler Suitcase Cover that comes in a range of colours and sizes.  With 30% off, the medium cover is reduced from £35 to £24.50 and the larger size is down from £40 to £28. 

Designed to perfectly fit the Antler Icon collection, the case covers have a velcro fastening at the bottom, a large slot for the retractable handle and further zippers slips for side handles.  This means baggage handles can move them easily, while still adding an extra layer of protection. 

For flyers travelling with other brand cases, Amazon is selling the Leaforest Water Resistant Protective Suitcase Cover for £20.99. The smart black cover comes in various universal sizes and has been given a 4.4 out of five-star rating by shoppers. 

Elsewhere, Australian luggage brand Nere has reduced the price of their suitcase covers from £19.99 to £15.99. Available in a choice of colours, they match the Nere Suitcase collection perfectly. 

Passengers travelling with Samsonite luggage can also customise their cases. Available in a wide range of designs and sizes, their own range of Samsonite suitcase covers starting from £25. 

Antler fans who have already snapped up a suitcase cover for their Icon case have praised the travel accessory. One shopper said: “Great quality material! Definitely a good investment for better protection and upkeep of my new suitcase! I appreciate the zip detail for easy handle access and the product doesn’t interfere with the wheels.”

Another added: “Great quality and durable fabric! Having the zip for easy handle access is very helpful. I like how the cover can keep the suitcase secure and protected which I can keep scuffed free! Definitely a good accessory to have!”

A third buyer was impressed by the design, saying: “Love these covers as they cover your suitcase & helps to keep your suitcase looking nice without scratches once you have travelled with them”

While nearly all reviews were positive, one buyer was less impressed, noting: “You have to pull it so hard to be bale to close it from the bottom.”

Overall, shoppers have been impressed with the quality and design. Another five-star review said: “Keeps luggage as new and still looks great Quality materials used and easy to add the protection on cruise and flight travel.”