You can bring batteries on a plane but with some rules. The rules depend on the type of battery and whether you pack them in carry-on or checked bags. This article explains everything you need to know before traveling with batteries.
The rules explained here are with reference to TSA rules for travel from American airports. Other countries may have different rules, so don’t forget to check the rules in that country. Moreover, the final decision to allow a certain item through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer.
Rules for Carrying Batteries on a Plane
Dry Batteries
Common household batteries like AA, AAA, C, D, button-cell, 9-volt, etc., are called dry batteries. You can take them in your carry-on and checked luggage without any restrictions. The same rules apply to typical non-lithium dry batteries used in common household appliances, toys, and personal items.
Lithium Batteries with 100 Watt Hours or less in a Device
You can bring such batteries in carry-on and checked luggage but with some rules and instructions for packing batteries in checked luggage.
You can take spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and/or lithium metal batteries, power banks, and cell phone battery charging cases in only carry-on luggage.
The maximum power for lithium metal (non-rechargeable) batteries is limited to 2 grams of lithium per battery. The maximum permissible limit for lithium-ion (rechargeable) batteries is 100 watts per hour (Wh) per battery. Most batteries you use in common household appliances fall under this category.
Lithium batteries with more than 100 watt-hours
You are allowed to pack such batteries only in carry-on bags with special instructions. Batteries larger than 100 watt hours are restricted to checked bags. You will need airline approval to travel with these types of batteries.
You can take up to 2 lithium-ion batteries with a rating of 101-160 Wh or lithium-metal batteries with 2-8 grams of lithium per battery. This rule covers the larger after-market batteries used to extend laptop backup time and larger batteries used in professional audio/video tools.
Non-Spillable Wet Batteries
You can pack non-spillable wet batteries in carry-on and checked bags. These batteries include the ones with absorbed electrolyte batteries used in portable electronic devices. You can only carry up to two spare (not installed in the device) batteries.
The battery voltage must not exceed 12 volts, and the watt-hour rating must be 100 watt-hours or less. You can calculate watt-hours by multiplying the battery voltage with amp hours.
The FAA requires that the batteries must be packed in strong packaging. The battery and its packing must be marked clearly with “non spillable” or “non spillable battery.” Moreover, you must ensure that battery-powered devices are protected from accidental activation.
Spillable (Wet) Batteries
Spillable batteries, the ones used in automobiles, are not allowed in carry-on and checked bags. The only exception is the wheelchair batteries.
Phone Chargers and Power Banks
Phone chargers are allowed in carry-on and checked bags. Power banks, commonly used to recharge phones, tablets, and other personal devices, are only allowed in carry-on bags.
What kinds of batteries are allowed in carry-on baggage?
- Dry cell alkaline batteries
- Dry cell rechargeable batteries
- Lithium-ion batteries (up to 100 watts per hour per battery and up to 2 larger batteries (101-160 watt hour) with airline approval)
- Lithium metal batteries (up to 2 grams lithium per battery and up to 2 larger batteries (2-8 grams lithium) with airline approval)
- Non spillable wet batteries
Which batteries can I pack in checked bags?
All batteries allowed in carry-on bags are also allowed in checked bags except for spare (not installed in a device) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries.
How to pack batteries for a flight?
The batteries must be protected from damage, creating sparks or dangerous evolution of heat. You can ensure this by leaving the batteries in their retail packing, covering terminals with tape, using a battery case or sleeve, or putting them in a protective pouch.
Moreover, you must not take damaged or recalled batteries on a plane (carry-on or checked luggage) until the damaged or recalled battery has been removed or made safe. Recent examples include Samsung Galaxy Note 7 and Apple MacBook Pro.
Is there a limit on the number of batteries I can bring on a plane?
The batteries you carry must be for personal and professional use. There is 2 spare battery limit for larger (101-160 Wh) lithium-ion batteries. Batteries and battery-powered devices for resale or business purposes are restricted on a plane.
Can I bring battery-powered wheelchairs and mobility devices on a plane?
You are allowed to bring them in checked luggage only. However, there are special packing instructions for the batteries based on the type of battery found in the wheelchair. You must contact your airline operator for more instructions on traveling with a battery-operated wheelchair.
Can I bring battery-powered suitcases on a plane?
Battery-powered suitcases let you track your luggage via GPS. Please note that such suitcases are prohibited on a plane unless you remove the battery and pack it in carry-on luggage. Don’t forget to check with your airlines on how to travel with such suitcases.
Can I bring Vapes and E-cigarettes on a Plane?
Yes. Such devices are only allowed in carry-on bags. Moreover, the devices must be packed so they don’t turn off accidentally on a plane, and you cannot use or charge your Vape or E-cigarette during a flight.
Didn’t find your required battery? TSA has mentioned all the allowed and prohibited items on its web portal and mobile app. You can also contact TSA via its Facebook and Twitter. Simply snap and send the required item, and the TSA team will get back to you quickly.