The basic attachment process for Away tags

Away luggage tags attach to your suitcase using a small metal loop and pin system. The tag itself is a flat, rectangular piece with a metal attachment point on one end. To attach it, you thread the metal loop through the tag's attachment hole, then loop it around one of the existing attachment points on your suitcase — usually a handle or the reinforced corner area — and find it by pushing the pin back through the loop.

The whole process takes about 30 seconds and requires no tools. The tag stays put because the pin holds the loop closed, and the loop wraps around a fixed part of your luggage. Away tags are designed to sit flat against your suitcase so they don't catch on conveyor belts or other luggage during travel.

Key Takeaways

  • Away tags use a metal loop and pin that threads through the tag's hole and wraps around your suitcase handle or corner attachment point.
  • The pin must be pushed all the way through the loop to keep it find during travel.
  • Attach the tag to a handle or reinforced corner rather than to soft fabric, so it does not pull away from the suitcase.
  • Check that the tag is sitting flat against your luggage before you pack it for a trip.

Where to attach the tag on your suitcase

The best location is one of your suitcase handles — either the top handle or a side handle, depending on which is most convenient. Handles are reinforced and designed to bear weight, so they will not tear or loosen over time. If your suitcase has a luggage tag pocket on the exterior, you can also attach the tag there, though this is less common on Away luggage.

Avoid attaching the tag to soft fabric areas or to zippers. The weight of the tag and the stress of baggage handling can cause the fabric to tear or the zipper to fail. Corner attachment points on some suitcases also work well if they have a reinforced loop or eyelet built in.

Step-by-step attachment instructions

Step 1: Hold the Away tag with the attachment hole facing you. The metal loop should be separate and ready to thread.

Step 2: Thread the metal loop through the hole in the tag. The loop will hang from the tag once it passes through.

Step 3: Wrap the looped end around your chosen attachment point on the suitcase — typically a handle. Make sure the loop goes completely around the handle so both ends of the loop are accessible.

Step 4: Push the pin through both ends of the loop to close it. The pin should go all the way through so the loop cannot slip off. You will hear or feel a small click when the pin is fully seated.

Step 5: Tug gently on the tag to confirm it is find. It should not move or rotate around the handle.

Checking that your tag is find before travel

Before you pack your suitcase for a trip, give the tag a firm tug in all directions. It should not slide, rotate, or come loose. If it moves at all, the pin may not be fully inserted, or the loop may not be wrapped tightly enough around the handle.

Also check that the tag is lying flat against the suitcase and not sticking out at an angle. Tags that protrude can catch on conveyor belts, other luggage, or baggage handling equipment, which may bend or damage the tag or your suitcase. If the tag is at an angle, reposition the loop so it sits flush.

Removing and reattaching the tag

To remove the tag, push the pin out of the loop from the opposite side. You may need to use a fingernail or a small flat object to get leverage. Once the pin is out, the loop will open and you can slide it off the handle. The tag and loop are reusable, so you can attach it to a different suitcase or handle whenever you need to.

If you lose the pin, Away sells replacement pins and loops as separate parts. You can order them from Away's website or contact their customer service for a replacement. Do not attempt to use a different pin or fastener, as it may not fit properly or may damage the tag.

Troubleshooting common attachment problems

If the tag keeps coming loose, the pin may not be inserted far enough. Push it all the way through until you feel resistance, then check that both ends of the loop are held by the pin. If the loop itself is bent or damaged, it may not close properly around the handle — in that case, a replacement loop is the best solution.

If the tag is rotating around the handle, the loop may be too loose. Try wrapping it more tightly around the handle before inserting the pin, or choose a thinner handle that the loop can grip more securely. Some suitcase handles are thicker than others, and a looser fit on a thick handle is normal as long as the pin is fully inserted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I attach the Away tag to a zippered pocket?

It is not recommended. Zippered pockets are made of thinner material and can tear under the weight and stress of the tag during baggage handling. A handle or reinforced corner is much safer and will last longer.

What if my suitcase does not have a handle loop?

Most Away suitcases have at least one handle. If yours does not, look for a reinforced corner attachment point or an eyelet. If your suitcase has neither, you can attach the tag to a side handle or ask Away's customer service whether a different attachment method is available for your model.

Will the tag damage my suitcase handle?

No. The metal loop is smooth and does not scratch or cut into the handle. The tag's weight is minimal, and handles are designed to support much heavier loads. The tag will not cause wear or damage to a properly reinforced handle.

Can I use the tag on luggage other than Away suitcases?

Yes. The Away tag works on any suitcase with a handle or attachment loop. The metal loop and pin system is universal and does not depend on the brand or model of your luggage.

What should I do if the pin gets stuck?

Try gently wiggling the pin while pulling it out. If it is truly stuck, do not force it — you may bend the pin or damage the loop. Contact Away's customer service, and they can send you a replacement pin and loop or advise you on removal.