Is it a good idea to put an Airtag in checked luggage?

Should You Stash an AirTag in Your Checked Luggage? The Pros and Cons

The rise of smart trackers like Apple’s AirTag has revolutionized how we keep tabs on our belongings, extending even to our checked luggage. With the FAA giving the green light for AirTags in checked bags (provided they meet the lithium battery regulations – a maximum of 0.3 grams of lithium in metal cells), the question isn’t can you, but should you?

The answer, like most things in life, isn’t a simple yes or no. While the idea of having real-time visibility of your suitcase’s journey is appealing, there are several factors to consider before slipping an AirTag into your checked luggage.

The Advantages of an AirTag in Checked Baggage:

• Peace of Mind: Knowing where your bag is, especially during long layovers or connecting flights, can significantly reduce travel anxiety. This is particularly helpful if your bag gets delayed or misdirected. You can pinpoint its location and provide that information to the airline, potentially speeding up the retrieval process.
• Reduced Lost Luggage Stress: While airlines have their own tracking systems, having an independent source of information can be invaluable. An AirTag can provide more granular location data than what the airline might offer, especially if the bag is outside the typical baggage handling system.
• Theft Deterrent (Potentially): Although not designed as a security device, the presence of a tracker might deter opportunistic theft. Knowing a bag is being tracked could make a thief think twice.

The Downsides and Considerations:

• Limited Functionality within the System: Remember, your AirTag relies on the Find My network, which depends on other Apple devices. While airports are generally teeming with iPhones, your bag’s location updates will likely be sporadic while in the hold or being transported on the tarmac. Don’t expect constant, real-time tracking.
• Battery Life: AirTags have a decent battery life, but it’s not infinite. Ensure your battery is fresh before a trip to avoid it dying mid-journey, rendering the tracker useless.
• Privacy Concerns (for Others): While highly unlikely, there’s a theoretical risk of unintentionally tracking someone else if your bag gets mixed up or handled improperly. While Apple has implemented anti-stalking measures, it’s a consideration to keep in mind.
• No Guarantee of Recovery: An AirTag can tell you where your bag is, but it can’t retrieve it. Ultimately, you still rely on the airline to locate and deliver your misplaced luggage. The AirTag simply provides more information.
• Over-Reliance and False Sense of Security: Don’t let the presence of an AirTag lull you into a false sense of security. Practice good luggage habits: label your bags clearly with your contact information, use TSA-approved locks, and avoid packing valuables in checked luggage.

The Verdict:

Using an AirTag in your checked luggage can offer benefits, primarily peace of mind and potentially faster retrieval of a delayed bag. However, it’s crucial to manage expectations regarding real-time tracking and understand the limitations. Consider the pros and cons, and decide if the added sense of security is worth it for you. Ultimately, an AirTag is a helpful tool, but it’s not a foolproof solution to lost luggage.