Comment by daotoad

Speaking as an American the bit that seems over the top is the ""5, 1, or 0 meters" bit. It comes off as condescending. At least from another American. I've known a few Germans and this sort of comment seems much more acceptable to them. I think it's seen as "this is my reasoning, with it you can better evaluate the validity of my request".

Simply saying "please stop touching my luggage" is what I would expect. Adding any reasoning or explanation increases the emotional stakes and gives more places for people to infer subtext.

I appreciate the directness of simply backing your request with clear assertions as to why it is reasonable. Despite this, it does feel a bit odd to hear.