Can You Carry Batteries in Hand Luggage on a Plane? Airline Rules Explained
Learn the airline rules for carrying batteries onboard. Find out why spare lithium batteries and power banks must stay in carry-on baggage.
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Yes, batteries must be carried in hand luggage on a plane. Specifically, spare (uninstalled) lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries, which are commonly found in personal electronics, must be carried in carry-on baggage only. It's crucial to protect the battery terminals from short-circuiting by placing them in original retail packaging or by taping over the terminals. Power banks also count as spare batteries and must be in your hand luggage.
FAQs & Answers
- Can I pack spare lithium batteries in checked luggage? No, spare lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries must be carried only in hand luggage, not in checked baggage, to reduce fire risks.
- How should I protect battery terminals during air travel? Battery terminals should be protected from short-circuiting by placing batteries in original packaging or taping over the terminals.
- Are power banks allowed in checked baggage on planes? Power banks are considered spare batteries and must be carried in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage.