First, this is not a sponsored or paid post. This is my personal PSA for those of us who are notorious for losing our wallet and keys. Everyone who knows me knows I’m in constant search of either my wallet or my keys. (I think it must be in the DNA for some people to always lose something.) No matter how many times I pledge to have a better system, it only lasts for a day or two and I’m back to searching under the couch cushions or tearing apart my bedroom. (For longtime readers, I’m still searching for my missing coupon file from two years ago – *laughing* and *crying* at the same time)
Once again, I lost my keys a few days ago. However, this time, it was no big deal because I recently purchased a Tile. (Tile is a tiny Bluetooth tracker and easy-to-use app that finds everyday items in seconds, like your phone, keys and wallet.) I’m a total cheapskate, but I splurged on a Tile for $25. (The price drops to $17.50 each, if you buy a four-pack. And $16.25 each for an eight-pack — perfect for families!) And it’s been well worth the time and anxiety it’s saved me…more than once now.
This is how it works: You purchase a Tile, download the app, register your Tile and, then, simply attach it to whatever item you want. (The app is very simple and set-up takes less than two minutes.) Then, when you lose the item, open the app and search for it. If your Tile is within the 100-foot Bluetooth range, it will play a loud tune until you find it. If you still can’t find your Tiled item, you can expand the search by using all Tile apps in the community.
The feature is 100% private, so no one knows you’re looking for a lost item, but you. (In my area, I have nearly 1,500 Tile users that can assist me in finding an item.) If your item is located, the app will give you a general location of where it’s at on a map. (The Tile also works in reverse. If you lose your smartphone, you can use the Tile to locate it — even if the phone is on silent.) For more information on how it all works, click here.
I know I’m not the only lifetime member of the “Lost & Found Club.” I’m sharing my experience with Tile because it’s been so helpful to me. (I have one attached to my keys and another in my wallet. I also bought one for my elderly parents, who are always losing their house keys.) If you’re a “regular loser”, I can’t highly recommend it enough.
My only criticism is that I wish the Tile itself were a bit smaller and thinner. (Actually, I wish they made one small enough to discreetly attach to my eyeglasses!) I no longer have the panic and stress that ensues, when I reach into my pocket and realize my wallet is missing. Or, when I’m headed out the door and can’t find my keys, only to start a frantic search. (I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been late for an appointment, meeting or movie because I have to spend 30 minutes looking for my keys.) I’m so happy I found Tile. It’s been the perfect find for a “loser” like me!
Do you regularly lose your wallet or keys? Do you have any tips for keeping track of them?
I look forward to our next chat. And, remember, there’s always a deal, you just need to look for it. :-)
I tried a similar device called Trackr and it didn’t work well at all. I’d love to hear from you in 4-6 months and see if you still recommend it. P.S. I used it for my dog who runs away.