Luggage trackers are electronic devices that allow you to keep track of your luggage during travel. These devices can help you locate your luggage if it gets lost, stolen, or misplaced. In this guide, we will discuss what luggage trackers are, how they work, and whether they are worth buying.
If you’re looking for new luggage before you travel, check out our buying guides: best suitcase deals | ultra lightweight suitcases | checked luggage for international travel | aluminium suitcases | underseat suitcases with wheels | zipperless suitcases | extendable suitcases | suitcases for cruises | extra large suitcases | durable suitcases | Tripp suitcases. And for essential travel accessories, we recommend: compression suitcase packing cubes | passport covers | vanity cases
Luggage trackers are small electronic devices that can be attached to your luggage. They use GPS technology to track the location of your luggage and transmit that information to your smartphone or other mobile device. Some luggage trackers also have other features such as real-time location updates, geofencing, and alerts when your luggage has been opened or moved.
Luggage trackers work by using GPS technology to track the location of your luggage. The device is usually attached to the outside of your luggage or placed inside your luggage. The device then sends a signal to a GPS satellite, which can then determine the location of your luggage.
Once the location of your luggage is determined, the device sends that information to your smartphone or other mobile device. Some luggage trackers also use Bluetooth technology to communicate with your device, allowing you to see the location of your luggage in real-time.
I have the Galaxy Smart Tag+. This is what the app looks like. You can see the location of the tracker on a map and how long ago this location was refreshed. I screenshot this when I landed in Belfast. And see this news story where a women proved her luggage was in the airport and not lost as the airline had claimed, all using an airtag.
This article contains affiliate links where I make a small amount of money if you purchase through it. Find out how we research the best products for our lists.
Best rated luggage trackers on Amazon
Tile – Best Versatile GPS Trackers
You might consider buying a Tile tracker instead of a Galaxy Smart tag or an Apple Airtag if you’re looking for a variety of sized trackers to fit your device. Tile offer four main shapes:
- Pro – New and improved Bluetooth range, loudest volume, but shorter battery life by 2 years – Buy from Tile for $34.99
- Mate – A smaller shape than the Pro, the Mate is ideal for attaching to your keys or backpack without taking too much space – Buy from Tile for $24.99
- Slim – As the name suggests, the Tile Slim is perfect for wallets, laptop covers and luggage tags – Buy from Tile for $34.99
- Sticker – The Tile Sticker can be used for finding your remote, glasses case or even tracking your pet! – Buy from Tile for $29.99
Using the Tile app, you can make your Tile tracker ring if it’s within Bluetooth distance. Tile trackers are also compatible with Apple and Android devices.
You might be interested in…
Luggage trackers are worth it if you’re traveling with valuables that can’t be replaced. You should also consider cost, frequency of travel, type of travel and value of luggage too.
1. Cost: Luggage trackers can range in price from $20 to $100 or more. This can be a significant investment for some travelers.
2. Frequency of travel: If you only travel once or twice a year, a luggage tracker may not be worth the investment. However, if you travel frequently, a luggage tracker can provide peace of mind and save you time and hassle if your luggage gets lost or stolen.
3. Type of travel: If you mostly travel domestically or to locations with good infrastructure and transportation options, a luggage tracker may not be necessary. However, if you are traveling to remote or unfamiliar locations, a luggage tracker can be very useful.
4. Value of luggage: If you are traveling with designer luggage or valuable items, a luggage tracker can provide added security and peace of mind.
5. Personal preference: Ultimately, whether or not to buy a luggage tracker is a personal decision. Some travelers may prefer to rely on other methods, such as TSA approved locks or insurance, while others may find the added security of a luggage tracker to be worth the investment.
Luggage trackers can work internationally, as long as they are compatible with the wireless networks in the countries you will be traveling to. Some luggage trackers use GPS technology, which can work anywhere in the world as long as the device has an unobstructed view of the sky. Other trackers use cellular networks or Bluetooth, which may have limited coverage in certain countries or regions.
What are the cons of luggage trackers?
- Cost: Luggage trackers can be expensive, especially if you need to purchase multiple devices for a long trip or for multiple pieces of luggage.
- Battery life: Many luggage trackers require a battery, and the battery life can vary depending on the device. Some devices may need to be charged frequently, which can be inconvenient during travel.
- Limited coverage: As mentioned earlier, some luggage trackers may have limited coverage in certain countries or regions, depending on the type of technology used.
- Privacy concerns: Some travelers may have concerns about privacy and the potential for their location to be tracked by others, even if the tracking is intended to be for their own safety.
- Potential for loss: Even with a luggage tracker, there is still a chance that your luggage could be lost or stolen during travel. A tracker can help locate your luggage if it is misplaced, but it cannot guarantee that your luggage will always be safe and secure.
You can hide your AirTag in a variety of places in your luggage, such as inside a pocket or pouch, or attached to the handle or zipper pull. The AirTag is small and lightweight, so it can easily fit in a variety of locations.
AirTags do not require Wi-Fi to work. They use Bluetooth technology to communicate with nearby Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
However, if your AirTag is out of Bluetooth range of your own devices, it can use the Find My network of other Apple devices to update its location. This means that even if you are not near your luggage, you can still track its location through the Find My app on your own device.
Not all luggage trackers require a monthly fee. Some trackers may have a one-time purchase cost, while others may require a subscription fee for access to certain features or services. It’s important to research different luggage trackers and their pricing models to determine which option works best for your needs and budget.
How does a GPS luggage tracker work?
A GPS luggage tracker utilizes global positioning system (GPS) technology to determine the precise location of your luggage. It communicates with satellites to receive location data and transmits it to your mobile device or a tracking platform through cellular networks or other means.
Can GPS luggage trackers be used worldwide?
Yes, GPS luggage trackers can generally be used worldwide. They rely on GPS satellite signals, which have global coverage. However, it’s important to check the specific device and its compatibility with different countries and cellular networks.
How accurate are GPS luggage trackers in tracking the location of my luggage?
GPS luggage trackers can provide fairly accurate location information, typically within a few meters or yards. However, factors such as signal strength, obstructions, and environmental conditions may affect the accuracy to some extent.
Do GPS luggage trackers require a subscription or additional fees?
Some GPS luggage trackers may require a subscription or additional fees to access their tracking services. These fees often cover cellular data usage, tracking platform access, or other related services. It’s essential to check the product details and pricing before purchasing.
What is the battery life of GPS luggage trackers?
The battery life of GPS luggage trackers can vary depending on the specific device, usage, and settings. It can range from a few days to several weeks. Extended battery life models and power-saving features are available in some trackers.
Are GPS luggage trackers compatible with all types of luggage?
GPS luggage trackers can be used with most types of luggage, including suitcases, backpacks, briefcases, and more. They are often designed to be compact and easy to attach or insert into different types of bags.
Can GPS luggage trackers be used for tracking other belongings besides luggage?
Yes, GPS luggage trackers can be used to track other belongings such as laptops, cameras, wallets, and important documents. They provide an additional layer of security and peace of mind by keeping track of your valuable items.
Are GPS luggage trackers allowed on airplanes?
GPS luggage trackers are generally allowed on airplanes, but it’s essential to check the specific regulations of the airline you are traveling with. Some airlines may have restrictions on devices with built-in batteries or GPS capabilities.
What happens if my luggage with a GPS tracker goes out of range?
If your luggage with a GPS tracker goes out of range, it may temporarily lose its connection with the tracking platform. However, once it comes back within range, it will re-establish the connection and resume tracking the location.
Can GPS luggage trackers help with recovering lost or stolen luggage?
GPS luggage trackers can assist in recovering lost or stolen luggage by providing real-time location updates. You can track the location of your luggage and share the information with relevant authorities or airline staff to aid in the recovery process.
Last update on 2023-09-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
