Why Use A Bag Tracker
As the world copes with the pandemic, travel is once again booming. Frequent travelers, jetsetters, and professionals know the importance of safeguarding belongings when it comes to trips. However, in this modern post-pandemic world, the travel industry faces new, unique challenges, making it harder to travel with multiple bags and luggage. This is where the bag tracker comes in—changing the game for a lot of travelers. It might be the right time to use a bag tracker.
Should you use a tracker for bags?
Bag trackers are simple devices that can help people track the location and status of any bags or luggage when traveling. For some, this might be unnecessary. But for people who like to travel, bag trackers might just be the most essential travel accessory in the modern age. These little devices that are attached to all kinds of bags can help people keep track of their belongings. So should you use bag trackers for your travel?
In 2022, The Guardian reported that the aviation industry was struggling to keep up with the rising demand for travel and a sudden influx of flyers in the wake of the pandemic, causing the rate of mishandled luggage to double. Almost 26 million pieces of luggage worldwide were delayed, lost, or damaged. Eighty percent of these 26 million were delayed (an increase of 9% from the previous year), 13% were damaged, and 7% were lost or stolen.
Furthermore, in a report by aviation data company SITA, it’s been mentioned that flight transfers or international journeys lead to the most mishandling of bags. Errors in these kinds of flights account for about 42% of mishandled or affected luggage.
Meanwhile, The Independent reported that the shortage of skilled staff during the resumption of international flights is also a significant cause of bag mishandling or mismanagement. Europe has a mishandling rate of 15.7 mishandled bags per 1000 passengers. North America has 6.35 mishandled bags per 1000 passengers, and Asia has 3 mishandled bags per 1000 passengers.
In the United States alone, nearly 220,000 bags were mishandled in 2022. They were either lost, damaged, stolen, or delayed. This affects thousands of passengers, and airlines are forced to compensate people for any lost, delayed, or damaged baggage.
With all the luggage being mishandled or getting lost as travel becomes popular again, it’s all the more reason to use a bag tracker. Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, a bag tracker can help keep your luggage safe and provide constant reassurance as you switch flights and arrive at your destination.
Different kinds of bag trackers
There are different kinds of luggage and bag trackers available on the market nowadays. There are a lot of options that will fit in nicely with the needs and lifestyles of various kinds of travelers. It’s up to the user to decide which kind to use.
Here are some of the common types of bag trackers.
Bluetooth bag trackers
Bluetooth bag trackers are devices that use Bluetooth® technology or even Bluetooth® Low Energy. Bluetooth connectivity is used to establish a connection between the tracker device and the user’s smartphone or a dedicated app. The range is typically limited to a few hundred feet, and they are suitable for short-range tracking or traveling.
GPS bag trackers
GPS (Global positioning system) bag trackers can provide real-time location information for travelers’ bags. They use satellite signals to determine the device's location, allowing users to track their bags remotely. These trackers are more suitable for long-range tracking but may require some sort of subscription for the GPS service.
RFID trackers
RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology can also be used in a tracker for bags. It is used to track items by attaching RFID tags or trackers to them. RFID bag trackers can be scanned at specific points, such as airports, to determine the bag's location. However, the range might generally be shorter compared to GPS trackers.
Smart luggage with built-in trackers
Certain luggage brands also offer luggage with smart technology and features. This includes built-in tracking features. These bags may include GPS or Bluetooth technology for tracking and can be tracked through a dedicated app provided by the manufacturer.
Wi-Fi trackers
Wi-Fi-enabled bag trackers, on the other hand, can connect to Wi-Fi networks to transmit their location. These trackers are effective in urban areas with widespread Wi-Fi coverage.
Cellular trackers
Some bag trackers have cellular capabilities as well, allowing them to transmit location data through mobile networks. This enables real-time tracking over longer distances. However, cellular trackers may require a subscription for data connectivity.
As time goes by, new technologies are also being applied to bag trackers. This means there might be more options for bag trackers in the future, and travelers will have an easier and more secure travel experience.
Benefits of bag trackers
Bag trackers offer several benefits to a lot of travelers, tourists, and professionals. Bag trackers or luggage tags provide peace of mind and practical advantages for users, especially when it comes to peak travel season. These little devices can be a saving grace, more than just a necessity, for travelers in this modern world.
Here are some key benefits of using bag trackers:
- Lost bag recovery: Bag trackers help in quickly locating lost, misplaced, or delayed bags. Whether it's at an airport, hotel, or other location, the ability to track the bag's last known location can significantly aid in recovery for users.
- Preventing theft: Bag trackers and tags can also act as a deterrent to potential thieves. The awareness that a bag is equipped with a tracking device may discourage theft, as the owner can promptly track and report the stolen item and the perpetrator.
- Real-time location monitoring: Many bag trackers can provide real-time location information. This allows users to monitor the movement of their bags on a map through a mobile app or an online platform.
- Peace of mind during travel: Knowing the exact location of one's luggage provides peace of mind and convenience to travelers. A constant visual of the status of bags will be a huge help to travelers of all kinds. It reduces the stress and anxiety associated with the possibility of losing bags during transit.
- Customizable alerts or features: Some bag trackers offer customizable alerts, notifying users when their bag arrives at a specific location or if it moves beyond a set distance. This can be useful for keeping track of baggage during transit.
- Integration with smartphones: Bag trackers often integrate with smartphones through dedicated apps, making it convenient for users to access location information and receive notifications.
- Recovery assistance from authorities: In the event of theft or loss, having tracking information can assist airport security or law enforcement in recovering the stolen or misplaced luggage.
- Battery life efficiency: Many bag trackers or tags are designed to be energy-efficient, offering long battery life. Some devices are equipped with rechargeable batteries, while others use replaceable batteries.
- Protection and security of belongings: Having a reliable bag tracker or luggage tag will increase the security and protection of belongings. For professionals traveling for work, people visiting their home countries, or families on vacation, these bag trackers can provide extra protection for various prized possessions.
- More control for users and passengers: Knowing the locations and status of bags also means the passengers or users can take back control from airlines, airport security, and other travel companies. This means airlines can’t hide behind cookie-cutter responses or the bare minimum action. Passengers can demand immediate action or compensation because they have an idea of where their possessions are.
How much does a bag tracker cost?
The prices of bag trackers or luggage trackers depend on a lot of factors. This includes the type of tracker, features, brand, design, and additional functionalities.
Some of the best bag trackers recommended by trusted sources usually range from $10 to $35. The most expensive ones around $100 are usually recommended for heavy-duty use and frequent international travel.
Here's a general overview of the potential cost range for the common types of bag trackers:
- Bluetooth trackers: Bluetooth trackers are typically more affordable, with prices ranging from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the brand, features, and design.
- GPS trackers: GPS trackers can range from $50 to several hundred dollars. Higher-end models with advanced features, longer battery life, and global tracking capabilities may be on the higher end of the price spectrum for bag trackers.
- RFID trackers: RFID-based bag trackers may range from $20 to $100 or more. It also depends on the technology and features incorporated.
- Cellular trackers: Bag trackers with cellular connectivity often come with a subscription fee for the data service. The device itself may cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more, and the subscription fee could be an additional monthly or yearly expense for the users.
- Smart luggage with built-in trackers: Smart luggage, which includes built-in tracking features, tends to be on the higher end of the price scale since it’s actual luggage. Prices can range from $100 to $500 or more, depending on the brand, size, features, and additional smart functionalities.
- Wi-Fi trackers: Wi-Fi-enabled trackers, on the other hand, may fall within the $30 to $100 price range. The brand and features are big factors in the overall price as well.
As a user, it’s better to consider every factor before buying bag trackers for your travel. Take a look at the features, your own needs and preferences, your trips, recurring fees, and more.
Where can you buy bag trackers?
Bag trackers can be commonly found and bought in a lot of retail stores, online retailers, and other channels.
Here are some common places where travelers can buy bag trackers:
Electronics retailers
Major electronics retailers and department stores often carry a selection of bag trackers or luggage trackers. Examples include Best Buy, Target, or similar stores, both in their online stores and in their physical locations.
Online marketplaces
Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart often have a wide range of bag trackers from different brands and sellers. These platforms usually provide user reviews and ratings as well to help buyers make informed decisions.
Specialty stores
Some specialty stores that focus on travel accessories, luggage, or electronics may carry bag trackers. Check with stores like The Container Store or travel gear shops.
Tech and gadget stores
Stores specializing in tech gadgets and accessories, or other gadget retailers, may offer bag trackers as part of their product lineup. Bag trackers can also be considered gadgets with the latest technology, which will be featured in these gadget stores.
Department stores
Large department stores, both online and in physical locations, may have a section dedicated to travel accessories where you can find bag trackers and other luggage trackers.
Luggage retailers
Some luggage retailers or brands that specialize in travel gear may offer bag trackers as part of their product line. Check with brands like Samsonite, Tumi, or other well-known luggage manufacturers to see if they sell the actual device tracker for bags.
Smart home stores
Stores that focus on smart home devices and technology may carry smart bag trackers, especially those with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities.
Airport shops
Some airports have shops that sell travel accessories, including bag trackers. This can be convenient if passengers don’t have any tracking systems in place yet, or for international flyers.
Specific manufacturer's or brand’s websites
People can also often purchase bag trackers directly from the websites of the manufacturers. This is a good option if you're looking for specific brands or models. One example would be the Smart Tag from SOLUM Group.
The SOLUM Smart Tag is a simple yet effective tracking tag ideal for travelers and professionals. It’s BLE-based, which means it’s powered by Bluetooth® Low Energy, known for its reduced power consumption, lower cost, and maintained communication range. The SOLUM Smart Tag is lightweight, stylish, and easy to use. It can track valuables in real-time, through the SmartThings network app. Apart from a bag tracker, travelers can use this to track keys, wallets, and even pets. This makes using the SOLUM Smart Tag one of the best travel tips an individual can practice. It can be bought from the SOLUM Group website.
If you’re going to travel this new year, make sure to grab a bag tracker for yourself. Let go of the worries, save yourself from lost or damaged luggage, and make sure you always know where your possessions are.
