Traveling is stressful enough without wondering if your suitcase made it onto the plane.
The simplest way I have found to keep track of my luggage (after traveling all over the world) is with a simple luggage tracker.
They give you peace of mind by letting you use your phone to pinpoint your bag’s location anywhere in the world.
Imagine any one of these scenarios:
- Did my case make it on the plane?
- I have landed, but where is my luggage?
- They lost my luggage, where is it? (you can help/push them to find it because you know where it is)
- You miss a connection, but your luggage keeps going or stays put (happened to me last year – luggage stayed in London for a day – I watched its progress back home)
- Luggage gets stolen (you can watch where the thieves take it)
Convinced you need a luggage tracker?
Here is a breakdown of the best options for your next trip.
Apple AirTag
I have used AirTags for years, but it is simple, cheap and works with the Apple network (and my iPhone).
This is the most popular choice for iPhone users because it taps into the massive Find My network.
It uses billions of Apple devices to relay a secure signal back to your phone. So, it doesn’t need a huge battery, and is small enough to slip into a pocket or a dedicated holder.
The battery lasts about a year and is easy to replace yourself (it’s a standard round/pill battery C2025). I replace mine all the time.
You can also buy them in multi-packs, and use them in all your luggage.
Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2
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The SmartTag is the equivalent for Android users, specifically within the Samsung ecosystem.
It uses the SmartThings Find network to locate items with great accuracy.
The design includes a built-in ring hole so you can clip it directly to a zipper or interior strap. It offers a long battery life and works seamlessly with Galaxy smartphones.
Tile Pro
Tile is the best platform-independent option because it works with both iPhone and Android devices.
The Pro model has the longest range and the loudest ring if you are trying to find your bag in a crowded room.
It relies on the Tile community network to help locate items once they are out of your immediate Bluetooth range.
Note: AlthoughTile has been around long before Apple and Samsung jumped on the bandwagon, but you have to wonder how deep their network is compared to those two – given there are billions of Apple/Samsung devices in the world!
Pebblebee Clip
The Pebblebee Clip is a unique hybrid option that works with either Apple Find My or Google Find My Device.
It is rechargeable via USB-C so you never have to buy replacement batteries.
It features a bright LED light and a loud buzzer to help you spot your luggage in dark cargo areas or busy hotel lobbies.
