As technology advances, new innovations are constantly being introduced to make day-to-day life even more convenient. One such innovation is the tracking tag: a simple device designed to keep track of your belongings’ locations in an effective way. While commonly understood as a tool for finding lost keys or wallets, these item tracking devices offer much more versatility. Below, you’ll find some practical uses of tracking tags and how they can go beyond basic item location.

How do tracking tags work?

A tracking tag is a compact, coin-shaped device equipped with location technology, such as GPS or Bluetooth, that pairs with a compatible app on your smartphone. This allows you to locate your tag (and whatever it’s attached to) with precision.

Setting up a tracking tag is straightforward. You simply pair it with your smartphone and assign it to an item with an appropriate name, such as ‘House key.’ Then, attach the tag to that item. Once the tag is attached, if you misplace the key, for example, the app can locate it; some tags can even emit sounds to help you find the object you’ve lost.

These are the basic functions of a tracking tag, however, the technology can be applied in multiple different ways to make it even more useful.

1. Theft protection

One of the most compelling applications of tracking tags lies in their capacity as anti-theft devices. By attaching a tracking tag to your valuable items, you add an extra layer of security to them. Imagine if your very expensive ebike were stolen. With the tracking tag attached, you could locate its position in real time. This makes it a proactive device, alerting you of any unexpected movements and serving effectively as a bicycle tracking tag.

Some devices have a Lost mode that can be activated. In this mode, the tracking tag sends out an encrypted signal that can be detected by nearby devices. These devices then transmit the location of the tag to your app, letting you easily relay its location to the police.

2. Pet tracking

Tracking tags can be attached to your pet’s collar, allowing you to keep track of their location in the neighbourhood in case they get too adventurous. A tracking tag equips them with a digital leash of sorts, which doesn’t restrict their movement and provides you with peace of mind. You will be able to quickly locate them should they wander off on an unscheduled exploration or go missing.

Besides providing their location, tracking tags can also give insights into your pet’s behaviour patterns over time. By analyzing the data, you can learn your pet’s favourite spots, routes they frequently take, or even unusual actions that may indicate a change in their health.

3. Luggage tracking

One of the most stressful aspects of travel is the fear of misplaced or lost luggage, which unfortunately is a common problem faced by travellers worldwide. From carry-ons and suitcases to backpacks and purses, it can be easy to lose track of an item of luggage when trying to manage multiple pieces. But if a tracking tag is attached to each piece, it will be easy to locate any misplaced luggage, including suitcases that don’t show up on the carousel when they should.

You can also set up proximity alerts on your tracking app for important pieces of luggage. For instance, if you’re on a crowded train or bus, these alerts can notify you if your luggage moves a certain distance away from you, giving you an extra degree of security in the face of potential theft.

4. Keeping kids’ toys safe

A cherished toy, school backpack, or favourite jacket can cause major distress for your child if they go missing. When you attach a tracking tag to them, you effectively equip them with a digital identifier that you can track. This ensures that even if your child accidentally leaves their bag in school or at a park, you can trace its location and retrieve it. Not only is this solution ideal for school items, but it’s also perfect for safeguarding other belongings like bicycles, musical instruments, or even tech gadgets.

Furthermore, tracking tags can be used as an educational tool to teach children responsibility for their belongings. By showing them how to monitor their items via the tracking app, you can encourage them to be more aware of their things and less likely to lose them.

5. A helping hand for seniors

For senior citizens, the daily task of keeping track of personal items can sometimes become a considerable challenge. As memory tends to wane with age, it’s not uncommon for seniors to misplace everyday items like glasses, keys, or medication. The stress that comes with searching for these essentials can be overwhelming, but tracking tags are an effective solution to mitigate this. If a tagged item is lost, the app can trigger a sound alert to help guide one to it, eliminating all guesswork and unnecessary distress.

Tracking tags offer an efficient, user-friendly solution to everyday challenges. They serve not just as simple tracking devices, but as tools for increased independence and reduced anxiety. With the aid of tracking tags, precious items can be safeguarded, lost luggage can be found, pets can roam a little more free, and grandma’s glasses are only a tap away.

This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.