Retrieving luggage at the baggage carousel can sometimes feel like a competitive sport. A recent Reddit thread highlighted a common frustration: a passenger accused another of being "rude" for how she collected her bags. This incident sparks the question: what are the unspoken rules of baggage claim etiquette?

The original poster explained that her four large bags arrived quickly, and as she retrieved each one, a young woman criticized her for not moving down the carousel. The Redditor, confused, questioned the proper protocol. Fellow Reddit users chimed in, with one emphasizing that "baggage claim is every person for themselves." Another suggested the critic was simply projecting her own travel stress.

The consensus among Redditors was to approach the carousel only when your luggage is visible and then move away after collecting it. Some even suggested airports implement designated waiting lines to maintain order and prevent crowding. One user shared their experience with airports that already enforce this practice, expressing frustration with families blocking the carousel.

Etiquette expert Rosalinda Randall weighed in, advising against hovering near the carousel chute. She recommends stepping forward to identify and retrieve your luggage when it appears, allowing others to do the same. This approach promotes visibility and prevents unnecessary congestion. Randall also pointed out that even if you have multiple bags, they might not arrive consecutively, so stepping back after grabbing one is crucial.

While anxieties about being late or having luggage stolen are understandable, Randall emphasizes that these don't justify disruptive behavior. She acknowledges that some passengers strategically position themselves at the chute, but reiterates that this behavior isn't acceptable. Ultimately, mindful baggage claim etiquette ensures a smoother, less stressful experience for everyone.