Carrying spare batteries on Flights

Carrying Spare Batteries on Airplane: Your Comprehensive Guide

If you’re like me, you can’t imagine going anywhere without your trusty gadgets. But when it comes to flying, packing those gadgets along with their spare batteries requires a bit of know-how to ensure everything goes smoothly. So, whether you’re planning to document your adventures with your camera, stay connected with your phone, or work on-the-go with your laptop, here’s everything you need to know about carrying spare batteries on flights.

TSA: Lithium batteries with more than 100 watt hours
Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only.

FAA: Batteries Carried by Airline Passengers
What kinds of batteries does the FAA allow in carry-on baggage (in the aircraft cabin)?

The Basics: Spare Batteries in Carry-On Baggage

First things first: when packing spare lithium batteries for devices such as laptops, cell phones, and cameras, remember they must travel with you in your carry-on baggage. This rule also applies to external battery chargers (a.k.a. portable rechargers) that contain a lithium ion battery. The key reason? Safety. Carry-on luggage is better monitored and controlled, minimizing the risk of potential fire hazards.

Types of Batteries Permitted in Carry-On Luggage

The FAA allows various consumer-type batteries in carry-on luggage, including:

• Dry cell alkaline (AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt, button-sized) and rechargeable batteries (NiMH, NiCad).
• Lithium ion batteries up to 100 watt hours per battery, covering most personal electronics and standard laptops. These must be marked with their watt hours. With airline approval, devices can have batteries between 101-160 watt hours, but only two spares of this size are allowed.
• Lithium metal batteries for cameras and small electronics, limited to consumer sizes (up to 2 grams of lithium).
  Nonspillable wet batteries (gel cells, AGM) up to 12 volts and 100 watt hours, with a maximum of two spare batteries allowed, properly packaged and marked “nonspillable”.

All spare batteries must be protected from damage, short circuit, and accidental activation. Damaged or recalled batteries are prohibited.

Packing Spare Batteries Properly

Ensuring your spare batteries are packed safely is paramount. Here’s the scoop:

• Terminals Protection: To prevent any chance of short-circuiting, battery terminals must be covered or insulated. The simplest way to do this is by keeping the batteries in their original retail packaging. If that’s not an option, secure the terminals with non-conductive tape.
• No Go for Checked Baggage: Spare lithium batteries of any kind cannot hitch a ride in your checked luggage due to fire hazard concerns. However, devices with the batteries installed are cleared for check-in. Remember, safety first!

Damaged Batteries & Recalled Products

A big no-no for flights is damaged batteries. If a battery is damaged, it’s considered a safety hazard and won’t be accepted for transport. The same goes for products that are under recall for safety reasons. If you own a device that’s been recalled because of battery issues, make sure the battery has been replaced, repaired, or certified safe per manufacturer instructions before packing it for your flight.

FAQs: Everything Else You Need to Know

Can You Take Normal AA Batteries on a Plane?

Yes, you can! Consumer-sized batteries (including AA, AAA, and other common types like 123, CR123A, CR1, CR2, CRV3, CR22, 2CR5, etc) with up to 2 grams of lithium per battery are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage.

How Do You Pack AA Batteries on a Plane?

For peace of mind, keep them in their original packaging or ensure the terminals are protected by non-conductive material to avoid short circuits.

Can I Carry Batteries in Hand Luggage?

Absolutely. In fact, for lithium batteries, it’s the only way they can travel.

Can I Take Batteries in Checked Luggage?

Yes, but with conditions. Batteries installed in devices are okay, but spare lithium batteries must be in your carry-on.

Before You Fly
Don’t forget, regulations and guidelines can evolve. For the latest and most detailed information on transporting batteries and battery-powered devices, a visit to faa.gov is a must. This ensures you’re up-to-date and can fly without any hitches.

Packing for your next trip doesn’t have to be a puzzle, especially when it comes to your electronic devices and their batteries. With these guidelines in mind, you’re all set to take off on your next adventure, fully powered and compliant. Safe travels, tech-savvy wanderers!

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