Travelling and holidays can be a costly experience, so the last thing you need is for your suitcaseto go missing. However, one expert warns that many of us are making a common luggage mistake, which could signal to thieves that our suitcase is worth stealing.

This warning comes as suitcase theft on UK trains rose by nearly 37% in 2024, according to analysis by Money Supermarket. Separate data from airlines and the baggage industry reveals that almost one in 20 bags on flights worldwide either goes missing or gets stolen.

Joseph Barton, a security expert from AdleyBarton.com, has warned that it's not what's inside your bag that gives you away - but what's on the outside.

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He said: "Always try to blend in, the moment you or your belongings don't, you become a target. Even if you have bought a counterfeit bagon holiday that isn't worth much, doing so puts you at risk.

"Thieves know the cost of items, and if you're running with a £1,000 suitcase, then there's a good chance that your clothes inside are designer and worth reselling."

Many travellers mistakenly believe that splashing out on expensive luggage means their belongings are better protected. While high-quality cases may survive rough handling at airports, they may actually advertise what might be inside when in public, reports the Express.

And it's not just the obvious designer brands that signal your case is worth stealing. Bright colours, hard shell finishes and even matching sets are all features that attract attention, and not in a positive way.

"You may choose a brighter coloured suitcase so you can find it easier when you land, but it also makes it easier for thieves to identify and follow you," Joseph warned.

Thieves tend to steer clear of older-looking bags - unless you give them a reason not to. Joseph said: "It signals to them that you aren't an experienced traveller, and quite possibly you have bought everything new to go on your travels too. This signals to them that they can make money off your belongings."

However, an old and worn-out suitcase can have the opposite effect, so thieves may think that you have nothing in your case worth taking.

So if you have luggage that is new and don't want to become a victim while travelling, the expert recommends that you try to scuff it up a little.

He explained: "Suitcases are made for the rough and tumble of an airport, so don't worry about getting them a little scuffed up or dirty. Something as simple as rubbing a bit of dirt from the pavement onto the wheels or base of the case, then wiping it off, can leave it looking used rather than brand new.

"You can also do this to your trainers and your clothing, to make them look more worn too."