Can I put battery charger in hand luggage?

Power Up, Pack Smart: Keeping Your Battery Charger in Your Carry-On

In today’s hyper-connected world, the thought of a dead phone, tablet, or laptop during travel is a modern nightmare. We rely on these devices for everything from navigation to entertainment. So, naturally, the question arises: where can you safely pack your trusty battery charger? The good news is, generally, yes, you absolutely can (and should!) pack your battery charger in your carry-on luggage.

However, it’s not quite as simple as tossing it in and forgetting about it. Understanding the regulations, specifically regarding power banks and spare lithium batteries, is crucial for a smooth and stress-free airport experience.

Why Carry-On is Key:

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have specific guidelines about portable power sources. These rules are primarily concerned with safety, particularly the risk of lithium battery fires. Here’s the core takeaway: spare lithium batteries and power banks are prohibited from checked baggage.

Why? In the event of a malfunction, a lithium battery fire in the cargo hold could be disastrous and difficult to detect and extinguish. Keeping them in the cabin allows passengers and crew to quickly identify and address any potential issues.

What Does This Mean for You?

Think of your power bank, external battery pack, or portable charger as a “spare lithium battery.” This classification dictates where it must be stored.

• Carry-On is Mandatory: Pack your power banks, spare lithium batteries (like the ones in external phone chargers), in your carry-on bag.
• Checked Baggage is a No-Go: Do not, under any circumstances, pack these items in your checked luggage.

Important Considerations for a Safe Journey:

While carry-on is the designated place for your chargers, here are a few extra tips to keep in mind:

• Watt-Hour Rating (Wh) Matters: The FAA regulates the watt-hour rating of lithium batteries. Generally, batteries with a rating of 100 Wh or less are allowed without restrictions. Batteries between 101 Wh and 160 Wh require airline approval. Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are typically forbidden. Most personal electronic devices and their chargers fall well below the 100 Wh threshold, but it’s always a good idea to check the labeling on your power bank.
• Protect Against Short Circuits: Prevent accidental activation or short-circuiting by keeping your power banks in their original retail packaging, or by covering the terminals with tape or placing them in separate bags or protective pouches.
• Keep Your Charger Accessible: Since you’re carrying it on, you might want to have it readily available. This can be especially helpful on long flights or during delays when you might need to top up your device’s battery.
• Familiarize Yourself with Airline-Specific Rules: While the FAA provides overall guidelines, individual airlines may have slightly different policies. Check with your airline before you travel to ensure you’re compliant with their specific regulations.

In Conclusion:

So, can you put a battery charger in your hand luggage? Absolutely. In fact, for power banks and spare lithium batteries, it’s the only place you’re allowed to put them. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, you can ensure a safe and smooth journey, keeping your devices powered up and ready to go throughout your travels. Happy travels!