Why travellers tape suitcase wheels before heading to airports

People who travel are putting tape around the wheels of their suitcases before going to the airport.

They do this because suitcase wheels can get very dirty and scratched on rough streets, in train stations, and at airports.

The tape is like a thin shield that keeps dust and small bits of dirt from sticking to the wheels.

It can also stop tiny scratches when luggage is stored or moved around.

But the tape does not protect against big bumps or water getting inside the wheels.

If you put the tape on the wrong way, the suitcase may not roll smoothly and might wobble.

Sticky leftover tape can even collect more dirt and make the wheels harder to spin.

An expert says it is better to clean the wheels before and after each trip and to check that they spin freely.

Special wheel covers are a better option for protecting luggage when it is stored.

So tape is only a quick fix, not a replacement for taking good care of your suitcase wheels.