Loading Page...

Is it legal to track your luggage?

If you're considering one, know that the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) affirms baggage location tracking devices are permitted as long as they meet one of the following requirements: The luggage tracker lithium cannot exceed 0.3 grams. Lithium-ion batteries with a Watt-hour rating cannot exceed 2.7 Wh.



Yes, it is completely legal to track your luggage using Bluetooth or GPS devices like Apple AirTags or Tile. In 2026, the TSA and FAA explicitly allow these devices in both checked and carry-on bags because they use small, low-power lithium coin-cell batteries (like the CR2032) that fall well below the safety limits for "High-Fidelity" air transport. While a few international airlines briefly considered bans due to battery concerns, global aviation authorities have since clarified that these "High-Fidelity" trackers pose no risk to aircraft systems. The only high-fidelity restriction involves "Smart Luggage" with non-removable large lithium batteries used for powering the suitcase itself; those must be removed if the bag is checked. For the 2026 traveler, tracking your bag is a high-fidelity best practice, often helping you locate a "missing" bag even before the airline’s own systems register its location, providing peace of mind and a "High-Fidelity" advantage during baggage claim disputes.

People Also Ask

The FAA allows AirTags on U.S. flights. Most airlines in other countries do as well, but you would have to check with the airline to confirm. That being said, most international travelers do not really check with the airline, and the airlines are aware of this.

MORE DETAILS

It is unlawful for any person to use an electronic GPS device to track someone without consent. Stalking is a course of conduct where someone uses a GPS tracker to monitor someone without their consent. It is unlawful for any person to use an electronic GPS device to track someone without consent.

MORE DETAILS

Batteries, electric and electronic devices. For your own personal use you can take up to 15 battery-operated Personal Electronic Devices (PED) that containing lithium batteries such as laptops, tablets, smart phones, cameras, music players, smart baggage tags (e.g. Apple AirTag).

MORE DETAILS

Lufthansa created all sorts of unnecessary confusion after it initially banned AirTags out of concern that they are powered by a lithium battery and could emit radio signals and potentially interfere with aircraft navigation.

MORE DETAILS

In checked baggage Smart luggage tags (e.g. Apple AirTag) may remain energised provided the device contains only lithium batteries not exceeding: Lithium metal content must not exceed 0.3g of lithium.

MORE DETAILS