Updated August 2026.
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Do you dread the endless waiting at baggage claim, praying that your luggage will eventually show up?
Apple’s answer is small enough that you forget you packed it. The AirTag is a quarter-sized disc that rides in your bag and tells your phone where that bag actually is.
Apple AirTag 4 Pack
Four trackers is the practical travel setup: one for checked luggage, one for carry-on, and enough left for keys or a day bag.
Think of it as a GPS tracker for your bags. With the AirTag, you’ll be able to see the exact location of your luggage in real-time, no matter where you’re in the world. Tracking does not prevent lost luggage, but it does mean you can tell the airline where your bag actually is instead of guessing.
Keep reading to find out more!
How it Works
The AirTag is a simple and intuitive device that’s easy to use. Here’s a rundown of how it works:
Description of AirTag
The AirTag is a small, quarter-sized disc that can be attached to your luggage, keys, wallet, or any other item you want to keep track of. It’s designed to help you locate easy-to-lose items, and it can be tucked into a pocket or attached with an optional key fob. Combined with portable luggage scales, you’ll have full visibility into both the location and weight of your bags. Pairing it with personalized luggage tags also makes the bag easier to spot on the belt.
Tracking through Find My network
The AirTag is tracked through Apple’s Find My network, which is the same network used to track the iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods. This means that the AirTag’s location is pinpointed by its proximity to other Apple devices, and its location updates in real-time.
Features of AirTag
In addition to real-time tracking, the AirTag has several other features that make it a must-have for travelers. For example, it can play a tone and has Precision Finding, which is an on-screen feature that uses directional arrows and the distance between the phone and the AirTag for easier locating. With end-to-end encryption, you can rest assured that your information is secure.
Road Test: Pros and Cons
We put the AirTag to the test to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. Here’s a rundown of what we found:
Initial Test
We started our test by flying directly from Vigo, Spain to Marrakesh, Morocco, and back again. Before setting up the AirTag, we made sure that our phone had the latest software update.
Setting up AirTag
Setting up the AirTag was simple and straightforward. Our iPhone immediately recognized the unpaired device and provided on-screen prompts to finish the process.
Real-time Tracking
The AirTag worked as advertised, providing real-time updates on the location of our checked bag. In densely populated areas like Vigo and Marrakesh airports, the location of our bag was updated roughly every minute or two. Even while in the air and in airplane mode, we could see that our suitcase was flying over the Strait of Gibraltar between Spain and Morocco. Tracking in flight depends on the Bluetooth rules by airline, which vary more than most travelers expect.
However, in the smaller airports of both Vigo and Marrakesh, the location of our bag didn’t update until it was retrieved on the conveyor belt, as there weren’t enough other Apple products in the area to ping off of.
Limitations
The AirTag is only compatible with Apple products, so it may not be an option for those who use Android devices. Also, the AirTag doesn’t have a built-in key ring hole, so you’ll need to purchase a holder separately if you want to attach it to a keychain. It works great on any type of bag, whether you’re comparing 2-wheel vs 4-wheel luggage or just tossing it in a carry-on. If you want a backup that needs no battery or app, TSA-approved luggage straps keep a bag shut and easy to identify.
AirTag for Travelers: Bottom Line
After putting the AirTag through its paces, we can say with confidence that it’s a game-changer for travelers. Here’s why:
Comparison with Other Luggage Tracking Apps
While other airlines have luggage tracking apps, they’re not updated in real-time like the AirTag is. With the AirTag, you’ll be able to see the exact location of your luggage at all times, without any room for human error.
Accurate and Reliable
The AirTag proved to be accurate and reliable during our test, providing real-time updates on the location of our luggage. With end-to-end encryption, you can rest assured that your information is secure.
Peace of Mind
For a little additional peace of mind, an AirTag is worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or taking your first trip, the AirTag provides a level of certainty that other luggage tracking apps can’t match.
Price and Availability
The AirTag is available for purchase from Apple’s website and other retailers, and it’s an affordable option for anyone who wants to keep track of their luggage. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing:
Apple AirTag
At a Glance – One AirTag vs. Four Pack
Price for One AirTag
One AirTag is the cheapest way to find out whether tracking a bag changes how you travel.
Price for a Pack of Four AirTags
The four pack works out cheaper per tag, and it covers a checked bag, a carry-on, and a set of keys in one purchase.
Availability
The AirTag is readily available from Apple’s website and other retailers, so it’s easy to get your hands on one.
In conclusion, the AirTag is an affordable and accessible option for anyone who wants to keep track of their luggage. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or taking your first trip, the AirTag is a must-have accessory for your next journey.