“Can’t I just use an AirTag for this instead?”

It’s one of the most common questions we hear from parents.

At first glance, it makes sense. AirTags are small, affordable, and easy to attach to almost anything. They’ve become the go-to gadget for finding lost keys or a misplaced backpack. But when it comes to keeping track of kids on a ski hill, the reality is more complicated.

How AirTags Really Work

AirTags don’t have GPS or cellular radios of their own. Instead, they rely on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) signals that are detected by nearby Apple devices. Those devices then anonymously update the tag’s location through Apple’s Find My network.

This works well in crowded areas. In a busy city or mall filled with iPhones, AirTags are constantly “seen” and updated. You can even use Apple’s Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology on newer iPhones to get precise directional guidance but only within about 30 feet.

But here’s the catch: AirTags don’t stream continuous, real-time locations. Updates only appear when another Apple device passes within range and uploads the information. If no one’s around, the AirTag stays silent.

As PCMag put it:

“AirTags are not GPS trackers. They’re dependent on the density of Apple devices nearby to be effective.” – PCMag

Why That’s a Problem on the Slopes

Now, let’s think about a ski resort.

• Wide open terrain: Unlike a mall, there aren’t hundreds of people packed into a small space. Your child might be the only skier in a glade or bowl.
• Trees and snow: Dense forests and snowpack weaken Bluetooth signals, further reducing range.
• Cold weather: AirTags are rated down to –20 °C, but coin-cell batteries lose capacity quickly in freezing conditions, meaning shorter real-world performance.
• No cell coverage: If there’s no mobile data signal, even nearby phones may not upload AirTag updates right away.

So if your child takes a wrong turn into the trees or gets separated mid-run, an AirTag won’t reliably tell you where they are in real time. You may only see their last known location—not where they are now.

One of our customers, Michael, shared his experience:

“My young son went into the trees last year and didn’t come out. Twice. We had AirTags on them and they did nothing. skiKrumb gives me peace of mind if it happens again. My son loves the replays and it’s the first thing he wants to look at when he gets home. We never leave home without it.”
— Michael, Family of 4

Why skiKrumb Is Different

skiKrumb was designed specifically for ski resorts. It doesn’t depend on random passers-by with iPhones, it connects directly to the resort’s own infrastructure.

Using a combination of GPS and low-frequency radio waves, skiKrumb delivers:

• Live updates every 10 seconds
• Precise accuracy across the entire mountain
• Reliable connectivity even in trees or cold weather
• Interactive 3D maps with daily replays and stats

We’ve tested skiKrumb trackers from up to 80 km away with pinpoint accuracy. Parents tell us the difference isn’t just technical, it’s emotional. It turns a stressful day of “what ifs” into a more relaxed, enjoyable family ski trip.

And it’s not just about safety. Kids love seeing their runs replayed on the app. Families share their stats, compare trails, and relive the day together.

AirTag vs. skiKrumb: At a Glance

Beyond Safety: Peace of Mind and Fun

Parents often tell us that skiKrumb doesn’t just make skiing safer, it makes it more fun. With daily replays and interactive maps, kids love reliving their day, and parents love knowing where everyone is without constant worry.

As one customer put it:

“They were actually both really excited to have them… they’re excited every day to put them on.“
— Mike, Family of 4

Our new feature, skiKrumb Unbound™, goes one step further and allows you to use the skiKrumb app even without a phone connection, delivering greater reliability anywhere on the mountain.

The Bottom Line

AirTags are brilliant for what they were designed for: finding lost items in crowded places. But they aren’t designed for the unique challenges of a ski mountain—wide-open terrain, cold weather, trees, and the very real possibility of a child getting separated.

skiKrumb was built from the ground up to give parents peace of mind and kids a safer, more fun ski day. Purchase your skiKrumb today or request a new ski resort partner today!