You might not want to attach an Apple AirTag to the exterior of a checked bag -- someone might snatch it off. Hiding it in one of the bag's interior pockets, or attaching via an AirTag holder for luggage, ensures that a bag thief won't be able to locate and remove the tracker at first glance.

The most effective place to put an AirTag in your luggage is inside a dedicated internal pocket or sewn-in lining, rather than attaching it to the exterior. Placing it inside protects the device from being accidentally knocked off during the rough baggage handling process or intentionally removed by someone with ill intent. For maximum signal strength, avoid placing the AirTag inside a metal-lined toiletry bag or directly next to large electronic devices like laptops, as these can interfere with the Bluetooth signal. A popular "pro-tip" is to hide the AirTag inside a shoe or tucked deep within the lining of the suitcase's frame. You should also ensure the AirTag is not in a "dead zone" of the bag where it could be crushed. In 2026, many luggage manufacturers have started including "AirTag-ready" hidden compartments specifically for this purpose. Always remember to "share" the AirTag's location with a trusted travel partner via the Find My app so that both of you can track the bag's journey from the check-in counter to the destination carousel.