Airline baggage tags are designed to help airlines and airports track passengers' luggage from departure to arrival. However, after the trip, these tags can inadvertently reveal personal information and travel details. Although baggage tags rarely display sensitive data like passport numbers or full payment details, cybersecurity and travel security experts recommend discarding them after every trip to avoid unnecessary privacy invasions.
What Information Is Typically Found on Airline Baggage Tags?
Modern baggage tags usually contain the following details: passenger name or part of it, booking reference or record locator, flight number, departure and arrival airports, frequent flyer number (sometimes partially visible), and a barcode or QR code linked to baggage tracking systems. The amount of visible information varies by airline and airport system. Some airlines provide very little public information, while others may include more passenger-related details directly on the label.
Why Old Baggage Labels Pose a Privacy Breach Risk
Travel History Exposure
Old tags can reveal where a person has traveled recently, including domestic and international destinations. If multiple tags are attached to the same bag, a pattern of destinations may become apparent, especially for frequent travelers.
Booking Codes Can Lead to Security Issues
Many baggage labels include booking codes known as PNR or record locator codes. When combined with a passenger's surname, these codes allow access to flight booking details via airline websites under the "Manage Booking" tab. Depending on the airline system, this may enable viewing of future flight details, contact information, seat assignments, partial frequent flyer information, and checked baggage details.
Frequent Flyer Information Exposure
Some airlines include full or partial frequent flyer numbers on baggage tags. While this may not directly allow unauthorized account access, such data can be useful in phishing attacks. Frequent flyer accounts are increasingly targeted by hackers due to their value.
Barcode and QR Code Scanning Risks
Baggage tags contain machine-readable barcodes for routing luggage at airports. Although not intended for public use, security experts have demonstrated that some airline barcodes can be decoded with readily available methods. The extent of information varies by airline; often, the barcode only contains an internal tracking code without sensitive passenger data. Still, it is advisable not to leave excessive information exposed.
Operational Issues with Outdated Tags
Apart from privacy risks, old tags can cause operational difficulties. Barcodes play a key role in baggage routing systems, and multiple tags can confuse scanner operators. Even if modern systems prioritize active tags, airlines recommend removing all old tags from bags.
What Travelers Should Do
Travel security experts recommend the following precautions: remove old baggage tags and barcode stickers after every trip; destroy or shred discarded boarding passes and tags; avoid posting photos online that clearly show barcodes or booking references; use luggage tags with covered personal information; and avoid displaying full home addresses on bags. For travelers who keep baggage tags as souvenirs, storing them separately rather than leaving them attached to luggage is the safer option.
