Uncover How AirTags Function — and Why They're Essential for Travelers

With travelers encountering checked-bag challenges recently, many have turned to AirTags to keep tabs on their belongings. Crafted by Apple, these versatile Bluetooth trackers can monitor any item they’re attached to, from your luggage to your vehicle or even your pet. Here’s everything you need to know about these ingenious devices, including their functionality.

What’s the mechanism behind AirTags?

AirTags are compact discs that can be tracked using your iPhone or iPad. Instead of GPS, they rely on Bluetooth for location tracking. An AirTag emits a Bluetooth signal that securely connects to any device within the Find My network (Apple's location-tracking service), allowing its location to be triangulated and reported back to your iPhone.

For example, picture your checked luggage containing an AirTag being moved through an airport. The AirTag will connect to nearby iPhones — perhaps those in baggage handlers' pockets — and its location will be transmitted back to your iPhone through the Find My app. For privacy concerns, each AirTag is linked to a single Apple ID, meaning only those logged into an Apple device with that ID can access the AirTag's location.

It’s important to note that AirTags are exclusively compatible with Apple devices — they won’t work with Android. If you need a similar tracker for Android, consider using Tile trackers.

Setting Up and Using AirTags

Upon unboxing a new AirTag, you’ll find a tab that prevents it from powering on — simply pull that tab to activate the device. Bring the AirTag close to your iPhone or iPad, and a setup prompt will appear. Follow the instructions to name your AirTag (which you can change later) and link it to your Apple ID. That’s all there is to it! If your AirTag is already powered on, you can enter setup mode by launching the Find My app and tapping the plus sign.

Once you open the Find My app, you’ll be able to view the current or most recent location of your AirTag. Through the app, you can play a sound on the AirTag, activate Lost Item Mode, set up location alerts, or rename the AirTag as needed.

The Benefits of Using AirTags While Traveling

AirTags let you monitor the whereabouts of your luggage almost anytime, which is especially useful for checked bags. (Indeed, AirTags can be safely placed in a cargo hold!) You’ll quickly find out if your bag has boarded your flight, and if it’s misplaced somewhere, you might be able to share its location with your airline to aid in retrieval. Additionally, you can keep track of your bag if porters are moving it from an airport to a hotel or cruise ship.

Additional Applications for AirTags

AirTags can be attached to virtually anything you want to track. Apple offers holders for AirTags that can be clipped onto keys or even your pet’s collar. You can also place an AirTag on your bike or leave one in your vehicle, which not only helps you find your parking spot but can also assist law enforcement in recovering them if they are ever stolen.