Are Airtags Safe To Put In Checked Luggage? | Track Your Bags

Yes, AirTags are generally safe to put in checked luggage, aligning with current aviation regulations for their small lithium-metal batteries.

Navigating airport logistics can be a puzzle, and there’s a particular comfort in knowing where your belongings are. AirTags offer a clever solution for tracking checked bags, providing an extra layer of visibility in the travel process. Understanding the specifics of their technology and how it fits into airline safety guidelines helps travelers use them effectively.

Understanding AirTags and Their Power Source

An AirTag is a small, disc-shaped tracking device developed by Apple, designed to help locate items using the company’s “Find My” network. It operates by emitting a secure Bluetooth signal that can be detected by nearby Apple devices. These devices then relay the AirTag’s location to iCloud, allowing you to see its position on a map.

The core of an AirTag’s operation is its power source: a single, replaceable CR2032 lithium coin cell battery. This is a non-rechargeable battery, distinct from the larger lithium-ion batteries found in phones, laptops, or portable power banks. The type and size of this battery are crucial when considering aviation safety regulations.

Aviation Regulations on Batteries in Luggage

Airlines and aviation authorities, primarily the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), have specific rules regarding batteries in both carry-on and checked luggage. These regulations are in place to mitigate the risk of thermal runaway, a condition where lithium batteries can overheat and potentially catch fire.

The rules differentiate between lithium-ion (rechargeable) and lithium-metal (non-rechargeable) batteries based on their energy capacity and composition. Lithium-ion batteries, common in most portable electronics, are generally restricted from checked luggage if their watt-hour (Wh) rating exceeds certain limits, or if they are loose spares. Most portable power banks, for example, must be in carry-on bags due to their higher energy density. According to the FAA, spare lithium metal batteries and lithium-ion batteries (including power banks) must always be packed in carry-on baggage.

Lithium-metal batteries, like the CR2032 in an AirTag, are typically allowed in checked luggage when installed in equipment. Their lower energy content and stable chemistry present a significantly reduced risk compared to larger lithium-ion batteries. The key is that the battery is small and installed in a device, not carried as a loose spare.

The AirTag’s CR2032 Battery: A Detailed Look

The CR2032 battery is a standard, widely available button-cell battery. It has a nominal voltage of 3 volts and a capacity typically ranging from 200 to 240 mAh. For comparison, a typical smartphone battery might be 3000-5000 mAh and operate at higher voltages, resulting in a much greater energy output.

The small size and low power output of the CR2032 battery are why it generally falls outside the stricter regulations applied to larger lithium batteries. It’s considered safe for transport in both carry-on and checked baggage when installed within a device like an AirTag. This classification aligns with other small electronic devices that use similar coin cell batteries, such as watches or key fobs.

Practical Benefits for Tracking Checked Luggage

Using an AirTag in checked luggage offers substantial practical benefits for travelers. The primary advantage is the ability to track your bag’s general location, providing a level of transparency that was previously unavailable. If your bag is delayed or misplaced, being able to see its last known location can be incredibly helpful when communicating with airline staff.

The AirTag works by leveraging Apple’s vast “Find My” network. When your bag passes within Bluetooth range of any iPhone, iPad, or Mac device, its location is anonymously relayed to you. This means that even if your bag is in a remote baggage sorting facility, it can still be located if an Apple device user passes by. This functionality offers a sense of control and reduces anxiety during travel.

According to the TSA, small consumer electronic devices containing lithium metal batteries, like AirTags, are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage. This clear guidance confirms their acceptance within the security screening process.

AirTag Placement Tips for Luggage

• Internal Pocket: Place the AirTag securely within an internal zippered pocket of your suitcase. This protects it from damage and prevents it from falling out.
• Hidden Spot: Consider a less obvious spot within your bag, such as inside a shoe or a toiletries bag, to deter theft if your bag is opened.
• Avoid Exterior: Do not attach AirTags to the exterior of your luggage where they could be easily lost, damaged, or removed.

Best Practices for Using AirTags with Checked Bags

To maximize the utility and safety of your AirTag, a few best practices are worth adopting. Begin by ensuring your AirTag has a fresh battery before a trip, especially if you anticipate long journeys or multiple connections. A CR2032 battery typically lasts about a year, but checking it beforehand prevents it from dying mid-trip.

If your luggage does not arrive at your destination, the AirTag’s data can be a valuable tool. When reporting a lost bag to the airline, you can share the last known location from your “Find My” app. This information can help airline staff pinpoint where the bag was last scanned or seen, potentially expediting its recovery. While an AirTag cannot force an airline to act faster, it provides concrete data that can aid their search.

What to Do If Your Bag is Lost

1. File a Report: Immediately report your lost luggage to the airline’s baggage claim office. Provide all necessary details and flight information.
2. Share AirTag Data: Show airline staff the last known location of your AirTag on your “Find My” map. This visual data can be highly persuasive.
3. Monitor Continuously: Keep an eye on your AirTag’s location. If it moves to a new location, update the airline with this information.

Addressing Common Concerns About AirTags in Luggage

While AirTags are generally safe and beneficial, some concerns occasionally arise. One common question relates to privacy. Apple designed AirTags with privacy and security features, including unwanted tracking alerts. If an unknown AirTag travels with you over time, your iPhone will notify you, preventing misuse for surveillance.

Another area of discussion involves battery safety. While CR2032 batteries are low risk, any battery can pose a hazard if damaged or improperly manufactured. Apple designs its products, including AirTags, to meet stringent safety standards. The extremely low incidence of issues with CR2032 batteries across countless devices underscores their general reliability.

Airline policies have also been a point of discussion. While the FAA and TSA permit AirTags, some airlines initially issued statements that caused confusion. For instance, Lufthansa briefly suggested AirTags were prohibited due to battery concerns, but later clarified their stance, confirming that tracking devices with low-power batteries are allowed. It is always prudent to review your specific airline’s current policies, though most align with general aviation regulations allowing these devices.