TikToker Goes Viral For 'Genius' But 'Sad' AirTag Hack For Solo Travelers

Online users had mixed reactions to TikTok user Cristen Elizabeth’s AirTag travel hack for women solo travelers.

The hack is a safety precaution that involves tying the Apple tracking device to hair at the back of one’s head. The TikToker displayed the hack in a video she posted on July 14. She used an everyday hair tie to loop around the AirTag’s key ring accessory. Once the two were connected, she attached the hair tie to one of her boho faux locs at the base of her head. She hid the tracking device by simply readjusting the braid and slightly shaking her hair around.

The goal of Cristen’s hack is to ensure the traveler is detectable at all times. Whether in case of an emergency or something worse, the device’s technology can help in the event they go missing. Having your location documented and shared with someone or people you trust could be lifesaving. Text overlaying her video said, “Be sure to share your AirTag [location] with loved ones.”

While Cristen tied the AirTag to her faux loc, the hack could be reworked, regardless of gender or hair length. The idea is to have the tracking device on your person, so putting it in your pocket or shoe for the day could be another way of trying the hack.

@cristenelizabeth

#travelhack #solotravel

♬ Took Her To The O – OJ The DJ

How Did Social Media Reaction To Cristen Elizabeth’s AirTag Hack For Solo Travelers?

Within days, Cristen’s post has garnered nearly 35,000 likes, thousands of saves and shares, and hundreds of comments. Most of the commentary revolved around the smart idea being unfortunate but necessary. One person wrote, “This is sad, but genius.”

“This is so smart… it kinda makes me sad that we live in a world where we have to consider this and can’t just live in peace. Thank you for this,” another penned.

Also in the comments, an idea for a more subtle tracking device for solo vacationers was born. Cristen and other women discussed collaborating on a fashion or nail accessory with tracking properties that can be used instead. The conversation was sparked by user @saylave_itsjustme. They said, “Someone should create a tracker hair charm or embed the chip from inside the device in the acrylic of their nail set.”

Cristen replied, “Say luv, let’s start a business! That’s a great idea.”

Since then, others have shared support for the women’s potential venture and even offered to help, invest, or work on the design.