If you’re always searching the couch cushions for your misplaced keys or leaving the house only to realize you forgot your phone, then these genius inventions were made for you. With a click of a button, these trackers can cue your cell phone to start ringing (even if it’s on silent!) or alert you when you’re about to leave the house without your purse. Thanks to Bluetooth and GPS, your life just got a little easier.
Tile Mate
Loop this tracker onto a keychain and never again will you lose your keys inside a giant purse. When hooked up to the app on your phone, you can ask your phone to ring the keychain. And what happens if it’s your phone you can’t find? Double tap the Tile Mate and your phone will ring—even if it’s set on silent.
To buy: $25; amazon.com.
Tile Mate Pocket
If your kids are constantly losing their jackets, iron this tiny pocket onto the inside of each coat. It’s perfectly sized for holding a Tile Mate Slim (the thinner version of the tracker above). Now you’ll know whether the missing coat was left at a friend’s house or accidentally dropped on the playground. You could also attach the pocket to the inside of a laptop case or tablet sleeve.
To buy: $15; amazon.com.
Spy Tec Personal GPS Tracker
Slip this tracker into your suitcase or your child’s backpack so you can make sure your luggage boards the plane and that your child gets to school. This option lets you track via a website, rather than an app, so it’s best for those who prefer a device that doesn’t rely on a smartphone.
To buy: $50; amazon.com.
Don’t Forget It! App
Never again will you leave the house without your phone, wallet, or purse. Set this app to track any item you want to make sure you won’t forget, then set an alert when you walk a certain number of feet away from the item. You can even set an alert to remind you to take your passport with you before you leave for your trip to London or to grab your umbrella before you leave the restaurant.
To buy: Free; itunes.apple.com.
LINK AKC Smart Dog Collar
If you not only want to know when Fido gets out of the backyard, but also want to monitor his activity, opt for this device that attaches to any standard size collar. The price is an investment, but it will buy you the peace of mind of always knowing where your furry friend is.
To buy: $149; amazon.com.
