AirTags are small devices that help you locate your personal items, such as luggage, wallets, and backpacks. Many international travelers wonder if these trackers still work when WiFi or mobile networks are unavailable, especially in airports or during long trips. Understanding how AirTags communicate can help you use them more effectively, particularly when traveling abroad with a stable mobile connection like a global eSIM.
Do AirTags Work without WiFi?
Yes, AirTags work perfectly fine without WiFi. They rely entirely on Bluetooth technology to communicate with nearby Apple devices that are part of the Find My network. When your AirTag is within Bluetooth range, your iPhone can detect it directly. If it is farther away, other Apple devices in the area can pick up its signal and securely send its location to iCloud. This process allows you to view your item’s location in the Find My app even without a WiFi connection on the tag itself, although having internet access on your phone helps refresh the location faster.
How Do AirTags Work?
AirTags use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to send a signal that nearby Apple devices can detect. When one of these devices receives the signal, it uses its own internet connection to update the AirTag’s location in the Find My network. The AirTag itself does not include GPS, a SIM card, or any WiFi capability, so it cannot connect to the internet directly. According to Apple users in community discussions, AirTags communicate only through Bluetooth and the Find My network, and they never connect to WiFi directly [1]. Others also note that WiFi networks usually require passwords or authentication, which AirTags are not designed to handle [2].
Do AirTags Work Internationally?
Yes, AirTag works in most countries where the Find My network operates. Their performance depends on how many Apple devices are nearby to detect the Bluetooth signal. In big cities and airports, updates are frequent, while in remote areas they may take longer. AirTags do not use roaming or mobile data, but keeping your iPhone online with a global eSIM can help your Find My app show the latest location during travel.
Fixing AirTag Connection Problems While Traveling Abroad
If your AirTag is not appearing in the Find My app or fails to connect properly, try the following steps to fix the issue before or during your trip:
Make sure Bluetooth is turned on in your iPhone’s settings.
Ensure your iPhone has internet access over WiFi or mobile data, such as through a travel eSIM, so the Find My app can update.
Bring the AirTag close to your iPhone and wait a few seconds to see if it reconnects.
Check the AirTag battery and replace it if it is low or inactive.
Restart your iPhone to clear temporary connection issues.
Remove the AirTag from your Apple ID in the Find My app, then set it up again as a new accessory.
Update iOS to the latest version to make sure your device stays compatible with the Find My network.
Disclaimer: The steps above are general troubleshooting suggestions based on common connection issues. Actual results may vary depending on your iPhone model, iOS version, and regional network availability. If the problem continues, contact Apple for further assistance.
Tips for Using AirTags for International Travels
When you’re traveling internationally with AirTags, a few simple habits can help improve their performance and make tracking your belongings easier. Here are some essential tips to ensure your AirTags work efficiently while you’re abroad:
Keep Bluetooth On: Make sure Bluetooth is always turned on so your AirTags can communicate with your iPhone and nearby Apple devices in the Find My network.
Airplane Mode Tip: AirTags continue to send Bluetooth signals even when your phone is in Airplane Mode. Once your phone reconnects after landing, the location will be updated.
Avoid Metal Enclosures: Keep AirTags away from metal suitcases or thick materials that can block Bluetooth signals, preventing your AirTags from being detected.
Location Update Delays: If you’re in an area with fewer Apple devices, it may take longer for your AirTag to update its location, but it will still transmit once another device comes nearby.
eSIM Benefits: If you are traveling abroad, using a global eSIM like Roamless helps the Find My app update your AirTag’s location faster, ensuring real-time tracking and seamless travel.
For more information, you can also read our post on Share Item Location with AirTags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do AirTags need WiFi to work?
No, AirTags do not require WiFi to function. They rely on Bluetooth to communicate with nearby Apple devices, and location updates are sent via the Find My network. WiFi can help speed up the location update process, but it is not essential for the AirTag to work.
Do AirTags use Bluetooth?
Yes, AirTags use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology to communicate with nearby Apple devices. These devices then relay the location to the Find My network, allowing you to track the AirTag.
Do AirTags work without a phone nearby?
Yes, AirTags can work without your phone being nearby. When another Apple device detects the AirTag's Bluetooth signal, it relays the location to the Find My network. Your AirTag’s location will be updated whenever it comes within range of a nearby Apple device.
Do AirTags work in remote areas?
Yes, AirTags work in remote areas or places with fewer Apple devices, but location updates may take longer. The AirTag will transmit its signal when another Apple device comes nearby, but it may take some time for the location to update.
Can I track my luggage in airplane mode?
Yes, AirTags can still send Bluetooth signals in airplane mode. While your phone is in airplane mode, AirTags will update their location once the phone reconnects after landing.
Sources:
[1] Apple Community. ''AirTag tracking, phone only using WiFi''. Accessed November 2025. - https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254103359?sortBy=rank
[2] Apple Community. ''Does AirTag connect to WIFI ?''. Accessed November 2025. - https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253529719?sortBy=rank
