Scout Travel

The Scout Travel project set out to solve a clear and growing problem: how to protect bags and personal belongings from theft or loss in a way that is intelligent, discreet, and travel-friendly. The challenge was to integrate motion detection, a loud alarm, Bluetooth, and Apple FindMy into a compact, robust, airline-compliant device. Key constraints included strict size and battery limits, while ensuring full functionality, long battery life, and USB-C rechargeability. Close collaboration with Apple USA ensured seamless Find My integration. Despite complex PCB, Bluetooth, and app design challenges, the result is a reliable, elegant, and highly functional travel solution.

Scout Travel was designed as a compact, durable, and intelligent tracker for theft prevention and lost item recovery, without compromising user experience or design appeal. Knog combined hardware innovation with software intelligence, using a polycarbonate core overmoulded with silicone for strength and tactility. Custom aluminium toggles and stainless steel fasteners ensure tamper-resistant attachment. A key feature is Digital ID—a QR code enabling anonymous recovery. Integration with Apple’s Find My network involved close collaboration with Apple USA. Challenges in miniaturisation, antenna performance, and airline compliance were overcome to deliver a sleek, secure, and user-friendly travel solution.

Scout Travel delivers significant commercial, environmental, and societal impact. It opens new opportunities in the expanding travel security market, positioning itself as a premium smart luggage tag that blends innovation with design appeal. Environmentally, it reduces waste through a USB-C rechargeable battery and the use of durable, long-lasting materials—minimising reliance on disposable electronics. On a societal level, it enhances personal security, deterring theft, and enabling the anonymous return of lost items through its privacy-first Digital ID platform. The result is a product that not only performs exceptionally, but makes travel smarter, less stressful, and delivers peace of mind.

Apple Find My Integration: Scout Travel connects directly to Apple’s global Find My network, enabling real-time location tracking across iPhone, iPad, and Mac—no additional app required. Motion-Sensitive Alarm: A built-in 85dB alarm activates when movement is detected, helping deter theft. Alarm sensitivity can be adjusted via the Knog app for personalized security. Digital ID Platform: Each device features a unique QR code linked to a secure messaging platform. If found, the item can be returned anonymously—no personal data shared. Tamper-Resistant Mounting: Stainless steel fasteners and custom aluminium toggles secure Scout Travel to bags or luggage in a tamper-resistant, theft-deterrent way. Durable Materials: A polycarbonate core overmoulded with silicone offers a rugged, tactile form that absorbs impact and stands up to travel wear and tear. USB-C Rechargeable: Scout Travel uses an eco-friendly USB-C rechargeable battery with extended standby time and airline compliance—no disposables required. Compact Design: Sleek, discreet, and minimalist, Scout Travel integrates into bags without bulk, balancing aesthetics with smart functionality.