The Unsettling Reason You Shouldn't Throw Out Luggage Tags At The Airport

It isn't just the classic travel concerns, like researching the European cities where you're the most likely to get pickpocketed, that should keep you on your toes during your globe-trotting adventures. While luggage tags may not seem like a major security risk, scammers are now finding ways to commit crimes simply by picking these up after travelers toss them in the garbage. A Delta baggage-claims manager posted the warning on Reddit in July 2025, telling flyers to take their bag tags home instead of throwing them away at the airport. In their post, they said there has been a rise in fake claims because scammers dig through airport trash for used baggage tags and use the numbers to get reimbursement for missing items from airlines.

Awareness is vital because baggage tags give scammers enough information to pretend they're you. The 10-digit number, name, and flight date can be used to find your name and booking code in the airline's system, which scammers could use to file fake claims or access your travel details. So, a tossed tag isn't garbage; if a person grabs it, any real claim for a lost bag might be questioned and go through a much slower process, since airline staff have to double-check which claim is legitimate. While you have to watch for the sneaky ways airlines trick you into spending more at check-in, you must always be wary of fellow travelers.

Sometimes, you'll notice a remark or subtle gesture indicating you're about to get scammed, but you likely won't spot a luggage tag scammer by how they look or act. So, it is advisable to take a photo of your tag and bag before you check in. This way, if your luggage goes missing, you have proof of your bag number and travel route. When you land, leave your luggage tag in your suitcase until you get home. Then, cut through the barcode and numbers or shred the tag so no one can use the details. When you plan your next trip, clear off any old tags or stickers to avoid leaving behind details or confusing the baggage system.

Also, do not share photos of your baggage tag or boarding pass online, because the barcodes on these items are not safe to show in public. A person with the right set of skills may easily decode the information in these barcodes. KrebsOnSecurity explains that a boarding pass barcode is particularly risky to leave in the open, as it can show your booking code and other details and potentially allow a person to look up or even change your reservation. Treat any identifying information as extremely valuable, and you'll have a better chance of keeping everything from minor inconveniences to serious security issues from ruining your trip.