can you put batteries in checked luggage

Can You Put Batteries in Checked Luggage? Guide 2023

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Travelling by plane is a joyful experience, but when packing our luggage, many questions arise. As we all travel with electronic devices nowadays, everyone is curious about, “Can you put batteries in checked luggage?”

Batteries are required to power electronic devices like cameras, laptops, and smartphones. So these batteries are an essential part of a traveller’s luggage.

Yes, we can put batteries in our checked luggage. But due to safety reasons associated with different types of batteries, you must follow some rules and restrictions. It’s crucial to Understand the rules and regulations of The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and airlines for smooth and safe travelling. 

 In this article, we will discuss all the aspects of the transportation of batteries in your checked luggage and carry-on. Also, we will discuss all rules, regulations, and restrictions imposed by airlines and TSA in general. So you get all the necessary information, pack your batteries in your luggage accordingly, and can enjoy your journey smoothly. 

What about batteries in checked luggage?

Most airlines allow you to pack the batteries in checked luggage. Some batteries, like Lithium-ion batteries used in electronic devices, are allowed in checked luggage. But some batteries with a high risk of explosion, like lithium metal batteries, are not permitted in checked luggage. So it’s essential to know the rules and regulations about specific batteries that airlines and TSA apply.

Can you take batteries in carry-on luggage? 

Yes, you can take batteries in carry-on luggage on the flight. Most passengers travel on planes with their smartphones, cameras, and laptops. Lithium batteries are already installed in these devices, which are allowed in your carry-on. 

Some popular types of batteries

Some important battery types used in everyday life are discussed here.

The most popular one: Lithium-ion battery

The most widely used batteries are lithium-ion batteries. These rechargeable batteries are used in electronic devices such as laptops, smartphones, cameras, and tablets. These batteries are tiny and have higher energy density.

Can you take it on a plane?

Usually, all electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and cameras are installed with lithium-ion batteries. So, you can carry these devices with lithium batteries in carry-on and checked luggage. But the devices must be shut down completely.

If you have more spare batteries with 100-watt hours or less, taking these batteries in a carry-on is recommended, as checked luggage is not handled smoothly, and due to temperature changes, there is a risk of explosion.

According to the TSA, you can bring up to two large lithium-ion batteries in the range of 101 – 160 Wh and lithium metal batteries from 2-8 grams on a plane in your luggage.

 Extra lithium-ion batteries with less than 100Wh are allowed in carry-on baggage without special approval. Spare batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh are permitted in checked luggage, but prior permission from the airline is needed.

Different airlines may vary in rules and regulations, so it’s essential to check the guideline of your specific airline to avoid any inconvenience.

Lithium-metal battery:

Lithium metal batteries are non-rechargeable and usually installed in small devices like watches, calculators, and medical devices. These batteries have high energy and have the risk of fire hazards.

Lithium metal batteries are allowed to carry on baggage but in limited quantities due to the high risk of explosion. You must get airline approval to pack any device with a lithium metal battery. Loose lithium metal batteries are not allowed in checked luggage for safety reasons.

Other types Of batteries:

Some other essential types of batteries are the following:

Dry-cell battery:

Dry cell or primary batteries are used in home devices such as flashlights, remote controls, toys, and portable electronics. These batteries come in different chemistries, including alkaline, zinc-carbon, and lithium.

Dry cell batteries are allowed in carry-on baggage and checked luggage without any restrictions.

 Nickel-cadmium battery

These rechargeable batteries are often found in old electronic devices.

Due to the arrival of new environmentally friendly battery technologies, the use of Nickel-cadmium batteries has significantly declined. You can find these batteries in emergency lights, blood pressure monitors, two-way radios, etc.

 Some airlines may restrict carrying Nickel-cadmium batteries, so it’s better to check with your airline for specific guidelines.

Nickel-metal hydride battery:

These rechargeable batteries are used in digital cameras, portable game consoles, and power tools. These batteries are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. You can pack spare batteries too.

However, carrying them in carry-on luggage is recommended due to the risk of short circuits or overheating in checked baggage, as these batteries have higher energy density.

Alkaline battery:

Alkaline batteries are non-rechargeable and disposable batteries. These batteries are used in home products, such as flashlights, remote controls, and toys. These batteries are safe for air travel as they have low energy density. These batteries are carried in both carry-on and checked luggage without any restrictions.

Non-spillable wet batteries:

Non-spillable wet batteries, also known as sealed lead-acid (SLA) or gel batteries, are rechargeable. These batteries are used in various devices, such as emergency lighting, alarm systems, and medical equipment.

Non-spillable wet batteries are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. These batteries are in strong packaging and protected from short circuits or damage. 

Spillable batteries:

Spillable batteries, also known as wet-cell batteries, are rechargeable batteries that contain liquid electrolytes. These batteries are used in vehicles, marine equipment, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). 

Spillable batteries are not allowed in carry-on or checked luggage due to their size, weight, and potential leakage.

You can pack spillable batteries in your checked luggage after specific approval from the airline. 

What type of battery can you bring on aeroplanes?

Lithium-ion batteries, dry cell batteries, Nickel-cadmium batteries, Nickel-metal hydride batteries, Alkaline batteries, and Non-spillable wet batteries are allowed on the planes in checked luggage and carry-on. Lithium metal batteries and spillable batteries need special approval from airline authorities to pack in your checked-in luggage.

Which batteries and devices are prohibited on flights?

Lithium-ion batteries of more than 160 Wh and lithium metal batteries exceeding 8g lithium are not allowed on the flight. Also, Loose lithium metal batteries in your checked are not allowed without permission. Spillable batteries are also not allowed on flights.

The reason why there are regulations to bring batteries in checked luggage

Batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, catch fire or explode if damaged, short-circuited, swollen, or improperly handled. A fire or explosion on an aeroplane is a disaster due to the limited space and difficulty in controlling a fire mid-flight.

There are regulations for batteries on planes to reduce the risk of explosion and fire. To avoid any accident or damage, properly pack your battery and follow the rules and regulations of airlines.

Consequences of violating the regulations about bringing batteries in checked luggage

The consequences of violating regulations regarding battery transportation on aeroplanes depend on the severity of the violation and the specific airline policies. 

Passengers who violate the battery regulation might face fines or criminal charges from the airline or the government agency. 

If a passenger is found carrying banned batteries, they may be denied boarding and unable to go on their planned trip.

The officers from the government agency might decide to confiscate forbidden batteries at screening checkpoints. The passenger will not be allowed to retrieve them.

Final Thoughts: Can You Put Batteries in Checked Luggage?

Transporting batteries on a plane in your checked luggage requires careful consideration and following the rules and regulations of the airline and TSA. You may get a clear answer, “Can you put batteries in checked luggage” after reading this article carefully.

In this article, we discuss all the aspects of battery transportation in checked luggage for your convenience. Always put the properly packed battery in your checked luggage. It’s better to check the specific guideline of your airline to avoid any inconvenience during the journey.

FAQs: Can You Put Batteries in Checked Luggage?

Following are the frequently asked questions about can you bring batteries in checked luggage.

Can you bring power banks on planes?

Power banks are portable chargers. You can take a power bank on a plane. Airlines and TSA do not allow power banks and cell phones in checked luggage. However, carry your power bank and cell phones in carry-on luggage.

The maximum capacity of the power bank you are allowed is 160W. If the ability of the power bank is more than 160W, it is not allowed.

Can you bring smart luggage on planes?

Yes, you can bring your smart luggage on planes. Smart luggage is suitcases or bags with built-in technology, such as GPS tracking and USB charging ports. Smart luggage is installed with non-removable batteries. If battery capacity surpasses 100 wh, it’s not permitted on flights. 

Smart luggage with removable batteries is allowed on the plane. But the batteries must be removed from the smart luggage and transported inside the cabin with the passenger. 

 How many devices and batteries can I bring?

You can bring up to 15 electric devices on the flight. Also, you can pack up to 20 batteries and a power bank in your luggage. But these devices and batteries are in your carry-on baggage.

Can I take laptops, tablets, mobile phones, or cameras in my checked-in bags?

You can take laptops, tablets, mobile phones, or cameras in your checked-in luggage. But it’s better to pack these devices in a carry-on. Checked luggage is not dealt with care, so device damage is possible.

What are Watt hours?

Watt-hours (Wh) is a unit of measurement used to measure the energy capacity of a device or battery.

Can you take phone chargers in hand luggage?

Yes, you can also take your phone charger in your hand luggage and checked luggage. There is no restriction to carry phone chargers on planes.

Can you bring Vaping devices and electronic cigarettes on aeroplanes?

Vaping devices and electronic cigarettes are generally allowed in aeroplane carry-on luggage, but their use is prohibited during the flight. You must check with your airline for specific restrictions and guidelines regarding these devices.

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