Hey jeni.feeser,
We'd recommend reviewing this article as it provides options to help locate your lost AirPods: Find your lost AirPods - Apple Support
"Play a sound on your AirPods
If your AirPods are near any of your Apple devices and connected to Bluetooth, you can play a sound to help you find them. With AirPods Pro (2nd generation), you can also play a sound to help find your charging case.
- Open the Find My app.
- Select the Devices tab.
- Choose your AirPods from the list.
- Tap Play Sound to play a sound that gets louder gradually.

Make sure that your AirPods are not in or on your ears before you play a sound."
You would only be able to locate or play a sound on your AirPods if they are powered on and connected via Bluetooth.
Thanks!