One of the gadgets that hit the market last year was the Apple AirTag. This year, it has seemingly picked up full stream ahead and has helped many travelers this summer locate their lost luggage.
What Is an AirTag or Smart Tag Tracker Thing?
It is a personal GPS tracking device that provides up-to-date information about the location of an object through an app.
Why Is It Useful?
With the amount of people who have lost their bags or never received them after arriving at a destination, having an air tracker will assist with taking the mystery out of where your bag is.
Having worked in an airport, I have seen the tags to luggage fall off numerous times. Once that happens, it is like a black hole. Thousands of bag circulate through an airport each hour.
How Much Are They?
Generally, they start at about $25 a tag or $100 for a pack of 4.
Where Can I Buy Them?
Amazon, Target, Walmart, Best Buy…pretty much all the big box retailers are carrying them.
Is It Worth It?
That question is up to you. It can be helpful to know the last known location of your luggage if it misses a connecting flight or is left near a gate.
Some of the devices can be used in other items such as keys.
It comes down to peace of mind and how much you are willing to pay for it. If you do not travel too often and never check a bag, for example, it may not be worth it.
If you travel a lot, then it could be worth it.
Other Notes
Read the review for the tracker you are considering purchasing carefully. Ensure that its battery is TSA compliant.
Be aware that some trackers require you to subscribe to their monthly service to be able to use the device. Other devices such as the Apple AirTag may only work with a specific device (ie: iPhone).
Hope this helps you!