If you dread the thought of your bags going missing you need to get your hands on a luggage tracker.
They’re most commonly known as Bluetooth trackers and you can pop one in your luggage or attach it to smaller items like your keys.
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What is a Bluetooth tracker?
A Bluetooth tracker is a small electronic device that you can attach to your items, like keys or pop inside your luggage, and it communicates with a smartphone app via Bluetooth. This means you can use it to view last known location on a map, or even make the device beep if you’ve misplaced your item.
How does a Bluetooth tracker work?
Bluetooth trackers continuously broadcast an anonymous secure signal which connects to the app on your phone to track your items.
If you’re within a short range to the tracker you can make the device beep to locate your item.
If you’re further away from your item, it relies on other people’s phones to help pinpoint the item.
When another device passes your tracker, it will log the location of where it was seen, and then securely and anonymously ping the location back to you.
Do Bluetooth Trackers Have Replaceable Batteries?
Some of these trackers may have non-removable batteries, whilst others (like the AirTag) have small, coin sized lithium batteries that last about a year and are easy to replace from most high street shops.
Why would I put a Bluetooth tracker in my luggage?
A Bluetooth tracker can help you keep an eye on your belongings throughout your journey.
When you board the plane you should be able to check whether the bag has made it to your gate. Or when you land and are waiting for a checked bag, it might show on the map before you see the luggage belt move.
And granted, you can’t do much at that point, it can help airport staff at your destination to locate your bag.
When my bag was lost in India and I could show staff that it had never made it onto the plane.
Can a Bluetooth tracker go in a checked bag?
IATA which represents over 370 airlines ‘Bag tags and GPS tracking devices are not restricted‘
If you’re flying within the US, TSA permits tracking devices with non-removable or small lithium coin batteries (like the ones in AirTags) in checked luggage.
However it’s always recommended to check with your specific airline – I’d just Google your airline followed by ‘Bluetooth tracker.’
Can a Bluetooth tracker go in a cabin bag?
Yes! This is due to the trackers using low energy Bluetooth rather than GPS. Whether you’re putting one in your checked luggage or cabin luggage, make sure it’s in a secure place where it won’t get dislodged in the handling process and if applicable, is in Airplane Mode whilst still having Bluetooth on.
The Best Luggage Trackers for iPhone
- 1+ year battery life
- Expanded precision with step by step directions
- 50% louder speaker to locate lost items
I’ve used Apple AirTags for years and now use the updated AirTag 2nd generation which has a much bigger range. It’s helped me locate my lost luggage in India!
These work with iPhones by pairing with your Find My app, and can be used in luggage or attached to your small items.
- Discreetly triggers an SOS to loved ones
- Up to 3 years battery life
- Compatible with Life360 app
The Tile Mate works with the Life360 app, which is compatible with both iPhone and Android phones. Either pop this in your suitcase or attach to your keys or wallet to ensure you never lose your items again.
This is a reputable mid range option with lots of good reviews.
- Works with Apple, Android and Google phones
- Comes in a variety of colours
- 1 year average battery life
This tracker can be used with small items like keys, wallets as well as luggage to locate your items. Find nearby items by playing the loud ringer or items further away with the map system.
Extra features include Call Your Phone (even on silent), Change Ringtone, Out of Range alerts and Take a Selfie.
- 2 year average battery life
- Works with Apple only
- Emits loud sound to help you locate items
The UGREEN Bluetooth tracker is compatible with Apple iPhones only, by using the Find My app. This allows you to see where your items are on a map, and also alerts you if you’ve left an item behind.
For items nearby, it emits a loud 80db ringer to help you locate your items.
The Best Luggage Trackers for Samsung, Android, Google and More
- Discreetly triggers an SOS to loved ones
- Up to 3 years battery life
- Compatible with Life360 app
The Tile Mate works with the Life360 app, which is compatible with both iPhone and Android phones. Either pop this in your suitcase or attach to your keys or wallet to ensure you never lose your items again.
This is a reputable mid range option with lots of good reviews.
- Works with Apple, Android and Google phones
- Comes in a variety of colours
- 1 year average battery life
This tracker can be used with small items like keys, wallets as well as luggage to locate your items. Find nearby items by playing the loud ringer or items further away with the map system.
Extra features include Call Your Phone (even on silent), Change Ringtone, Out of Range alerts and Take a Selfie.
Whether you use a Bluetooth tracker for luggage or smaller items like your keys or wallet, there’s no denying that these little devices are very handy. I personally will never travel without one again! Whatever you use it for and whatever budget you have, there will surely be a Bluetooth tracker that is right for your needs.
