The Best Tracking Devices and AirTag Holders for Luggage

Trust in airline baggage handling is low, and mistakes happen. Tracking devices such as AirTag, Tile, and SmartTag give passengers greater control. You can check your bag’s location independently. If your app shows your bag in London but the airline claims it’s in New York, you have proof to expedite its recovery.

The operational envelope requires stealth and mounting. A tracker tossed in a pocket can fall out or be easily removed by a thief.

Special mounts and holders attach the tracker firmly to your bag. These are often hidden or locked in place, so the tracker stays with your luggage at all times.

• For a deeper look at internal tools like Packing Cubes and Pouches, read our full Accessory Ecosystem Guide.

The Tracking Capability Profile

This accessory is designed to keep a digital link to your belongings.

Bluetooth (Crowd) vs. GPS (Satellite)

The network matters.

• Bluetooth trackers like AirTag and Tile use a network of nearby phones (called a “crowd network”) to update your bag’s location. They work best in airports and cities with high iPhone usage. Their batteries last about a year.
• GPS trackers communicate directly with satellites or cell towers. They offer global tracking but charge a subscription fee and frequently charge for additional services.

Mounting Security (Hidden vs. Visible)

Concealment.

• Hidden Mounts: Sewn into the fabric or hidden within the lining. Best for theft recovery.
• Visible Tags: Loop around the handle. Good for luggage identification, but easily removed by a thief.
• Screw-Down Mounts: Use screws to attach to fabric or hard shells. Require tools to remove.

Battery Life and Maintenance

Trackers should be reliable and easy to use. AirTags, for example, use CR2032 batteries that can be replaced annually.

Rechargeable trackers can run out of power during your trip if you forget to charge them. For luggage, trackers that require minimal charging are usually better.

Top Tracking Solutions for Luggage

We have isolated distinct tracker profiles to help you choose between Apple ecosystem dominance and cross-platform utility. Based on buyer consensus, we rank these trackers for reliability. Exceptional and excellent items are crowd favorites for signal strength. Good items serve specific needs well, but check the details for battery life. See our methodology.