There are so many options to pick from, and packing your baggage requires careful consideration.

Do you like a brightly colored one? A hard case or a soft case? What about size?

However, there is something you did not expect when selecting your suitcase.

It’s that one particular type is 40% more likely to disappear.

According to a travel expert from the US summer camp Wild Packs, it all comes down to being able to recognize it on the carousel.

Jamie Frazer advised you to avoid black luggage if you don’t want to pick up someone else’s.

He said, as per Lancs Live: “Hard-sided black suitcases are the most common luggage type globally, making them both the hardest to identify and the most likely to go missing.

“This style of suitcase, which also includes wheels, is the default choice for travellers, but if your bag is misplaced, you don’t want it to be hard to distinguish from other luggage. Instead, choose colourful luggage or add unique markers to your bag to make it stand out and easy to find.”

He added: “If you are travelling with a black hard-sided suitcase, it is best to arrive at the airport early and check your luggage well ahead of your flight.

This allows airline staff extra time to properly tag and load your bag, reducing the chance of it being mishandled or misplaced.”

Frazer advised: “Even if your bag is designed as a carry-on, affix a secure luggage tag with your contact information. Include your name, phone number, and email address on the tag, as these are often the quickest ways to reach you. To reduce safety risks, do not list your home address.