Peter Greenberg: Suitcase "Belts"

By: Peter Greenberg | Source: AARP.org | 2008-03-31

I've seen what could be called suitcase "belts" that can be put around the suitcase to help identify it as it comes off the luggage conveyor. Are these legal to use? With the airlines doing random checks and needing to open bags, would these be a bad thing? I've been asked on occasion to remove the shoulder strap from a piece of luggage. Before I go out and buy a few bags for an upcoming trip, I thought I'd ask your opinion.
-Terri, Amherst, N.Y.

The issue here isn't the suitcase “belts”; it's the ability of TSA agents to open up your bag. If the belt locks shut and prevents the bag from being opened, then it's a problem. If it can be removed with a simple snap or clip (or something similar), you should be fine. And yes, they are legal.

The only reason they might not be such a good idea is the same reason you're advised to remove shoulder straps. And that's so that the belt doesn't get caught on anything as it works its way through the baggage system. In my opinion, a little bit of colored string or ribbon tied to the handle works just as well.