Most batteries cannot go in checked luggage at all
The short answer: lithium batteries — the kind in phones, laptops, and power banks — are banned from checked bags on passenger aircraft. They must travel in your carry-on bag only. Other common batteries like alkaline (AA, AAA) and rechargeable NiMH batteries can go in checked luggage, but lithium batteries are restricted because they pose a fire risk in the cargo hold where fires cannot be fought.
The rule comes from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and applies to all U.S. airlines. International flights follow similar rules set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The restriction exists because lithium batteries can overheat and ignite, especially if they are damaged or short-circuited during flight.
If you are unsure whether a battery is lithium, check the device itself or the battery label. Lithium batteries are marked "Li-ion" or "lithium ion" or sometimes just "Li". If you see those words, the battery must stay in your carry-on.
Key Takeaways
- Lithium batteries (found in phones, laptops, and power banks) must travel in carry-on luggage only and cannot be packed in checked bags.
- Alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V) and standard rechargeable NiMH batteries are allowed in checked luggage in reasonable quantities.
- Spare lithium batteries must be in carry-on and should have their terminals taped or be in their original packaging to prevent short circuits.
- Damaged, recalled, or defective batteries are prohibited in both checked and carry-on bags.
- If you are traveling internationally, check your airline's specific rules, as some countries have stricter limits than the FAA.
Why lithium batteries are treated differently
Lithium batteries store a lot of energy in a small space, which makes them powerful but also risky. If a lithium battery is damaged — crushed, punctured, or exposed to extreme heat — it can enter a state called thermal runaway, where the chemicals inside heat up uncontrollably and ignite. In a cargo hold, where no one can reach a fire, this becomes a serious safety problem.
The FAA and IATA have documented incidents where lithium battery fires have caused aircraft accidents. Because of this history, the rules are strict: lithium batteries in devices (like your phone or laptop) can travel in carry-on bags because the device itself provides some protection and the fire can be detected and fought. Spare lithium batteries are even more restricted because they have no protective casing.
Alkaline and NiMH batteries do not carry the same risk because they are less prone to thermal runaway, even if damaged. That is why they are allowed in checked bags.
What counts as a lithium battery
Lithium batteries come in two main types: lithium-ion (Li-ion) and lithium metal. Both are banned from checked luggage. You will find lithium-ion batteries in almost every modern device: smartphones, tablets, laptops, e-readers, cameras, drones, and power banks. Lithium metal batteries are less common but appear in some older cameras, watches, and emergency backup devices.
The label on the battery or device will say "lithium ion", "Li-ion", "lithium metal", or sometimes just "Li". If you see any of those terms, treat it as a restricted battery. When in doubt, assume a rechargeable battery in a modern device is lithium and keep it in carry-on.
Alkaline batteries — the standard AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V batteries you buy in packs at the store — are safe for checked bags. So are rechargeable NiMH batteries (often labeled "NiMH" or "rechargeable"). Lead-acid car batteries are also allowed in checked bags, though you are unlikely to be traveling with one.
How to pack lithium batteries in carry-on luggage
If you are bringing spare lithium batteries in your carry-on, the FAA requires that the battery terminals be insulated so they cannot touch metal and cause a short circuit. The easiest way to do this is to tape the positive and negative terminals with clear or duct tape. Alternatively, keep spare batteries in their original retail packaging, which already has insulation built in.
Do not pack loose lithium batteries where they can move around and rub against metal objects, coins, or keys. A small plastic bag or battery case works well. If a battery is damaged, swollen, or recalled, do not pack it at all — leave it at home or dispose of it properly before your trip.
Devices with lithium batteries (phones, laptops, cameras) do not need special packing in carry-on. Just keep them accessible in case security or the airline asks to inspect them. Some airlines ask that you power down laptops during boarding, but this is a security measure, not a battery safety rule.
Alkaline and other allowed batteries in checked luggage
Alkaline batteries like AA, AAA, C, D, and 9V can go in checked bags without restriction, as long as the quantity is reasonable for personal use. The FAA does not set a hard limit for alkaline batteries, but airlines may have their own policies. If you are packing dozens of batteries for resale or business purposes, call your airline ahead of time.
Rechargeable NiMH batteries (the kind you charge in a charger) are also allowed in checked bags. These are common in cordless tools, flashlights, and older camera equipment. Like alkaline batteries, they should be in reasonable quantities for personal use.
If you are unsure whether a battery is alkaline or lithium, check the label or the device manual. When in doubt, pack it in carry-on to be safe.
International travel and airline-specific rules
The FAA rules explore to flights within the United States and to U.S. airlines flying internationally. However, other countries and airlines may have stricter rules. Some international carriers limit the number of spare lithium batteries you can bring, or they may require special packaging or documentation.
Before you travel internationally, check your airline's website or call their customer service to confirm their battery policy. Airlines like Lufthansa, Air Canada, and others have their own rules that may be more restrictive than the FAA standard. If you are flying to or from Europe, Asia, or other regions, the rules may differ.
If you are unsure, pack all batteries in carry-on and declare them to the airline at check-in. This takes a few extra minutes but prevents your luggage from being delayed or rejected.
What happens if you pack a lithium battery in checked luggage
If a lithium battery is found in your checked bag during screening, the bag will be removed from the aircraft and the battery will be confiscated. You will not be able to fly with that bag, and it may be delayed by days while the airline investigates and removes the battery safely.
In rare cases, if a lithium battery fire occurs in the cargo hold, it can damage the aircraft or cause a serious incident. This is why the rules are enforced strictly. Intentionally packing a lithium battery in checked luggage can result in fines and legal consequences, though most cases are treated as honest mistakes.
The best approach is to pack all lithium batteries in your carry-on bag before you arrive at the airport. This avoids delays, confiscation, and the risk of your luggage being pulled from the flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pack my phone or laptop in checked luggage?
Yes, devices with lithium batteries built in (phones, laptops, cameras, tablets) can go in checked luggage. The device itself provides protection for the battery. However, it is safer to keep expensive electronics in carry-on where they are less likely to be damaged or lost.
What if my battery is swollen or damaged?
Do not pack a swollen or damaged battery in either checked or carry-on luggage. A swollen battery is a sign that it is failing and may catch fire. Leave it at home and dispose of it at a battery recycling center or electronics store after your trip.
Can I bring a power bank in checked luggage?
No. Power banks contain lithium batteries and must travel in carry-on luggage only. This is one of the most common mistakes travelers make, so double-check your packing list before you head to the airport.
Are drone batteries allowed in checked luggage?
No. Drone batteries are lithium batteries and must go in carry-on. Some airlines have additional restrictions on drone batteries and may require special packaging or documentation, so contact your airline before you travel.
Do I need to tell the airline about batteries in my carry-on?
You do not need to declare batteries to TSA during security screening, but if you are asked by airport staff or the airline, be honest about what you are carrying. Some airlines ask passengers to declare spare lithium batteries at the gate, so listen for announcements.