5 Best Luggage Trackers of 2022

Our Good Housekeeping Institute engineers regularly test the latest and greatest tech like fitness trackers and even dog GPS trackers, so you know what’s really worth the investment based on your needs. We haven’t formally tested this category, but our recommendations come from a combination of one-off GPS tracker tests by our experts, previous testing from our Lab’s best key finders guide and picks from highly rated online reviews.

In our test for key finders, we tried some in our Lab and sent others to consumer testers for real user feedback. We logged dozens of hours with these trackers, collecting hundreds of data points including the length of the tracking range, the loudness of the alerts according to a decibel reader, the ease of replacing the batteries and how easy it was to use the apps.

✔️ Battery type: Some GPS trackers use rechargeable batteries that only last a few days before needing to be plugged in, while others come with replaceable batteries that can last well over a year, Rothman says. If you’re on a longer excursion, invest in one with a long battery life.

✔️Compatibilities: “It’s ideal to look for a tracker with a couple of complimentary technologies being used,” Rothman says. “That way, no matter where in the world your luggage winds up, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can track it down!” For those that only use Bluetooth, you’ll have to be in close proximity, so it’s less advantageous for luggage tracking and better suited to finding a set of lost keys in your house. Some use Bluetooth and WiFi or tap into larger Bluetooth device networks to offer more coverage, as is the case with AirTag and Tile. Those with GPS offer large areas of coverage and more accuracy but can easily be obscured indoors.

✔️ Subscription fees: Many tracking devices offer basic features free of charge, but some offer premium features like GPS tracking or real-time location services with a monthly subscription. Make sure the device you choose comes with the functionality you want before you commit to a subscription plan.

✔️ Size: Luggage trackers come in a few standard sizes, and none are particularly large (think a credit card size in terms of length and width), Rothman says. Some are smaller and can double as a keychain attachment or tuck nicely into a pocket so it stays hidden. The best tracker for you depends upon how versatile you want it to be: If it will be solely for luggage, a bit larger is likely fine, but if you want to use it for keys and wallets, too, you might want to look for a smaller form.

As Good Housekeeping’s Chief Technologist & Executive Technical Director, Rachel Rothman oversees testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all labs. During her 14 years with the Institute, the self-described Gadget Girl has had the opportunity to evaluate thousands of products, including countless innovative breakthroughs in consumer tech and home improvement. She ran the testing of the above Lab-recommend picks and lent her expertise on GPS trackers to this guide. Associate Product & Reviews Editor Jacqueline Saguin teamed with Rothman and vetted popular online reviews to round up all the above luggage tracker picks. She regularly collaborates with the Labs to synthesize its data in putting together product reviews on the best products, according to testing.