If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of losing your luggage while traveling and having to replace essential items, you may have considered investing in a luggage tracker. Suzanne Rowan Kelleher, a Forbes travel expert, explains that while the risk of checked luggage not making it to the baggage carousel is less than 1 percent for domestic flights, the risk increases significantly for international travel or flights involving multiple airlines. When luggage is lost, it typically takes about three days for bags to be reunited with their owners, which can be problematic for travelers with multiple destinations and time-sensitive plans. Luggage trackers solve this problem by using Bluetooth, GPS, and cellular technology to pinpoint the location of your luggage on a map, even from miles away. Here are some of the top luggage trackers on the market:

1. Eufy SmartTrack Link: This tracker is gaining popularity among travelers for its features and slightly lower price compared to the Apple AirTag. It seamlessly works with the Find My app on iPhones and provides free “left behind alerts” to notify you when your bags are not where they should be. Additional features include the ability to find items other than luggage, such as keys, and a QR code on the device that displays your contact information when scanned.

2. Tile Luggage Tracker: Compatible with both Android and iOS devices, this tracker integrates with Amazon Alexa, Hey Google, and Siri. The Tile app tracks the location of your luggage in real-time and allows you to attach it to a keychain or luggage tag. You can also add your contact information to the Tile via the app, making it easy for others to find you if they come across your lost luggage.

3. Galaxy SmartTag: Designed for Samsung Galaxy users, this tracker works similarly to the AirTag but is compatible with Galaxy phones and tablets. It utilizes ultra-wideband technology for precise location data and features an augmented reality function that uses your phone’s camera to track the missing item. To fully utilize its capabilities, your Galaxy smartphone needs to be UWB-enabled with Android 11 or higher.

4. Tracki Global LTE Tracker: Ideal for international travelers, this tracker comes with an international SIM card for real-time tracking worldwide. You can set geographic boundaries using the app, which will notify you when your luggage crosses into a specific area. The device includes various attachments, such as a belt-clip, magnet, lanyard, key chain, and even waterproof dog attachments for tracking different items. However, it’s important to note that the battery lasts approximately five days before needing a recharge, and there is a monthly fee for Tracki’s cell service, starting at $9.95 per month.

5. AirBolt: This super slim, cellular-enabled luggage tracker is one of the smallest on the market. While it requires a subscription for global live tracking, the AirBolt is worth considering for frequent international travelers. Its battery can last up to nine months without needing a charge. A standout feature of the AirBolt is its sharing capabilities, allowing you to share the device’s live location with another person.

So, if you’re planning to travel during the busy holiday season in 2023, consider investing in a luggage tracker to alleviate the stress of lost baggage.