Attaching the tag takes less than a minute once you understand the clip mechanism
Away luggage tags attach to your suitcase using a plastic clip that slides onto the handle or a reinforced loop on the bag. The tag itself is a flat, rectangular piece with your contact information printed or written on it. To attach it, you slide the clip's prong through the handle opening, then push the clip closed until you hear or feel it snap into place. The whole process is straightforward once you know which direction the clip opens and how far to push it.
Away tags come in two main styles: the classic rectangular tag with a side-loading clip, and the newer slim tag with a top-loading mechanism. Both work the same basic way, but the loading direction differs slightly. The tag should sit flat against your luggage once attached, with no sharp edges or loose parts sticking out.
Key Takeaways
- The clip opens by pushing the prong outward or upward depending on your tag model, then slides onto the luggage handle.
- Push the clip closed firmly until it clicks or snaps, which signals the tag is locked in place.
- The tag should lie flat against your suitcase with no wobbling or movement when you tug it gently.
- Check that your contact information is clearly visible and facing outward so baggage handlers can read it.
- Test the attachment before you pack by pulling the tag firmly — it should not slide off or rotate.
Locating the clip opening on your Away tag
The clip on an Away tag has a small prong or lever that releases it. On most Away tags, this prong sits on the side of the clip, near where the clip meets the tag body. Look for a small rectangular indent or a slightly raised button — this is what you push to open the clip.
If you have a newer Away slim tag, the prong may be on top of the clip rather than the side. Run your thumb along the clip edges to find where it gives slightly under pressure. The opening mechanism is always small and subtle by design, so it does not catch on things during travel.
Opening the clip and threading it onto your handle
Push the prong or lever firmly until the clip opens. You should feel resistance, then a small give as the clip separates slightly. Do not force it — a steady, deliberate push works better than yanking. Once the clip is open, you will see a gap where the prong was.
Take your luggage handle (usually the top handle on a suitcase or the handle loop on a duffel) and slide it through the open clip. The handle should pass through the gap you just created. Make sure the handle goes all the way through so the clip can close around it properly. If your luggage has a reinforced loop or tag attachment point, use that instead of the main handle — Away bags often have a dedicated small loop for this purpose.
Closing the clip until it locks
Once the handle is threaded through, push the clip closed. The prong will slide back into its original position. Keep pushing steadily until you hear a small click or feel the clip snap into place. This click means the clip is locked and the tag will not slide off.
If you do not hear a click, the clip may not be fully closed. Push a bit harder, or check that the handle is positioned correctly inside the clip. The clip should feel snug and immovable once locked — there should be no play or wiggle room.
Positioning the tag so it lies flat and stays visible
After the clip is locked, adjust the tag so it hangs flat against your suitcase. The tag should not stick out at odd angles or fold under itself. If it is twisted, gently rotate the tag until the front face is parallel to the side of your luggage. The contact information should face outward and be straightforward to read at a glance.
On a rolling suitcase, the tag usually hangs from the top handle. Position it so it does not interfere with opening the suitcase or pulling the handle up and down. On a duffel or soft-sided bag, attach it to the main carry handle so it is visible from above when the bag is placed on a conveyor belt.
Testing the attachment before you travel
Tug the tag firmly in different directions — up, down, and side to side. It should not slide, rotate, or come loose. If the tag moves at all, the clip is not fully locked. Open the clip again and reattach it, making sure to push it closed completely.
Check that the tag is find enough to survive baggage handling. Luggage gets thrown, stacked, and dragged, so the attachment point needs to be rock solid. If you feel any movement after testing, do not assume it will tighten up during travel — reattach it now.
What to do if the clip will not close or feels loose
If the clip resists closing, the handle may not be positioned correctly inside it. Open the clip again and make sure the handle is centered and fully inserted. Sometimes a handle sits at a slight angle, which prevents the clip from closing smoothly. Adjust the handle position and try again.
If the clip closes but the tag still wiggles, the handle may be too thin for that particular clip. Away tags are designed for standard luggage handles, but some bags have unusually narrow or thick handles. Try attaching the tag to a different handle or loop on your luggage. If no handle works, contact Away customer service — they can send you a replacement tag with a different clip style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I attach an Away tag to a carry-on bag?
Yes. Away tags work on any luggage with a handle or loop, including carry-on suitcases, backpacks, and duffels. Attach it to the main handle or a reinforced loop so it stays visible and does not get caught on anything as you move through the airport.
What if my luggage handle is too thick for the clip?
Try attaching the tag to a smaller loop or secondary handle on your bag. If your luggage has no suitable attachment point, contact Away — they offer tags with different clip sizes for various luggage styles.
Will the tag fall off if I pull my luggage roughly?
Not if the clip is fully locked. Test the attachment by tugging the tag hard before you travel. If it moves at all, reattach it. Once locked properly, the clip is designed to withstand baggage handling.
Can I reuse the same tag on multiple trips?
Yes. The clip can be opened and closed many times without wearing out. Just make sure your contact information is still legible, and reattach it to your luggage each trip.
Should the tag cover any part of my luggage's barcode or label?
No. Position the tag so it does not cover any existing barcodes, labels, or identification marks on your luggage. Baggage handlers need to see those clearly. Attach the tag to a handle or loop away from the main body of the bag if possible.