AirTags, Apple’s ingenious little devices designed to help you keep track of your valuables, have become a must-have for many people, especially frequent travelers. But a question that often pops up in my mind, and perhaps yours too, is: Can we use AirTags in checked luggage?

The Short Answer

In brief, the answer is yes. You can indeed put an AirTag in your checked luggage. But like most things in life, it’s not that simple. Let’s unpack the details.

The Long Answer

AirTags use Bluetooth technology to connect to your iPhone, allowing you to track the location of the tag through the Find My app. While airlines typically have no issue with Bluetooth devices, the bigger concern is the tiny battery inside the AirTag.

The AirTag is powered by a CR2032 lithium coin cell battery. According to the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations, lithium batteries, including those found in electronic devices, are allowed in checked baggage under certain conditions. The batteries should be installed in the device, and the device should be protected from accidental activation. The AirTag fits these criteria.

But here’s where things get a little tricky. AirTags and similar Bluetooth trackers are designed to emit a sound when they’re being searched for. This could potentially cause concern if your luggage is in the cargo hold of an airplane and starts making noises.

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Practical Considerations

And then there’s the practical side of things. While you can place an AirTag in your checked luggage, it may not always be the best idea. Here’s why:

• Limited Range: Bluetooth devices have a limited range, usually around 100 meters or 328 feet. So, once your luggage is beyond this range, you won’t be able to ‘see’ it on your device.
• Network Dependencies: The AirTag relies on a network of other Apple devices to relay its location back to you. If your luggage ends up in a location with few or no Apple devices around, tracking it might be difficult.
• Security Concerns: There is a small chance that security personnel might find the AirTag suspicious and remove it from your luggage.

Alternatives

If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of using an AirTag in your checked luggage, there are alternatives. For example, you could opt for a GPS tracker. These devices use satellite signals to relay their location, giving them a much larger range. However, they’re generally larger, heavier, and more expensive than AirTags.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice to use an AirTag in your checked luggage comes down to your personal comfort level and the specific circumstances of your travel. It’s always a good idea to check with your airline and any relevant security agencies before you travel.

Remember, the aim is to make our travel experiences as smooth and stress-free as possible. If an AirTag can help achieve that, why not give it a go?

There you have it, folks! Now, you know you can put an AirTag in your checked luggage. But whether you should… well, that’s entirely up to you. Happy travels!