Lithium batteries are banned from checked luggage on commercial flights in the United States and most other countries

You cannot pack lithium batteries in checked baggage on any U.S. airline or most international carriers. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) prohibit lithium batteries in checked bags because they pose a fire risk in cargo holds where fires cannot be detected or fought during flight. This applies to all lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries, whether they power phones, laptops, cameras, or other devices.

The ban covers both loose batteries and batteries installed in devices. A phone in your checked bag is a violation. A spare laptop battery is a violation. Even small batteries used in hearing aids or watches are restricted, though some exceptions exist for devices you wear or use during the flight.

Key Takeaways

  • Lithium batteries must travel in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage, on all U.S. commercial flights.
  • The ban includes batteries inside devices like phones, laptops, and cameras, so these items belong in your carry-on.
  • Some devices with non-removable batteries (like modern phones) are allowed in carry-on but still banned from checked bags.
  • Spare batteries and power banks must go in carry-on luggage and should have terminals taped to prevent short circuits.
  • Certain medical devices with lithium batteries have limited exceptions, but you must declare them to the airline before your flight.

What counts as a lithium battery

Lithium batteries are the rechargeable power sources in most modern electronics. They appear in phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, drones, e-readers, smartwatches, portable speakers, and power banks. They also power some medical devices like pacemakers and insulin pumps. If a device charges via USB or a wall outlet, it almost certainly contains a lithium battery.

The ban applies to both lithium-ion batteries (the most common type in consumer devices) and lithium-metal batteries (used in some cameras and emergency equipment). It does not matter whether the battery is new, used, or partially charged. A dead phone still contains a lithium battery and cannot go in checked luggage.

Carry-on is the only legal option

Pack all lithium batteries and devices containing them in your carry-on bag. This includes your phone, laptop, camera, and any spare batteries or power banks. The TSA allows lithium batteries in carry-on because crew members can respond to a fire when ready, unlike in a cargo hold.

For spare batteries and power banks, tape the battery terminals (the metal contact points) with clear or duct tape before packing them. This prevents accidental short circuits during the flight. Place each spare battery in its own plastic bag if you have multiple batteries. Keep batteries at room temperature—do not pack them in a checked bag to keep them cool, as checked luggage is unheated.

Devices with built-in batteries

Devices with non-removable lithium batteries—like modern smartphones, tablets, and most laptops—are allowed in carry-on luggage. You cannot remove the battery to make the device "safe" for checked luggage because the device itself is the problem. The entire device must stay with you in the cabin.

If your device has a removable battery, remove it and pack the battery separately in your carry-on. Pack the device itself in either your carry-on or checked bag. Some older laptops and cameras have removable batteries; check your device manual if you are unsure.

Medical devices and exceptions

Certain medical devices with lithium batteries have limited exceptions. Pacemakers, insulin pumps, and similar devices worn on your body are not subject to the same restrictions because they are essential medical equipment. However, you should inform the airline before your flight that you are traveling with a medical device containing a lithium battery.

If you carry a spare battery for a medical device, pack it in your carry-on and inform the airline. Some airlines require advance notice for medical devices with lithium batteries, so call ahead. Do not assume your device is exempt—check with your airline and your device manufacturer before packing.

What happens if you pack a lithium battery in checked luggage

If airport security discovers a lithium battery in your checked bag, your bag will be removed from the plane and you will miss your flight. You may face fines from the FAA. The airline may also refuse to let you fly until the battery is removed and repacked in carry-on luggage, which could mean rebooking on a later flight at your own expense.

The rule is enforced consistently because lithium battery fires in cargo holds have caused aircraft accidents. In 2010, a cargo plane crashed in the Middle East after a fire started in a shipment of lithium batteries in the cargo hold. Since then, the FAA and international aviation authorities have maintained strict bans on lithium batteries in checked baggage.

International flights and other countries

The ban on lithium batteries in checked luggage applies to all flights departing from the United States, regardless of destination. If you are flying internationally, the same rule applies on the outbound flight. On return flights from other countries, most airlines follow the same restrictions because they operate under IATA guidelines, but rules can vary by airline and country.

Before an international flight, check your airline's website or call their customer service line to confirm their lithium battery policy. Some airlines have stricter limits on the number of spare batteries you can carry or the watt-hour rating of batteries allowed. If you are flying with expensive electronics or multiple devices, knowing the specific rules ahead of time prevents problems at the airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pack a phone or laptop in checked luggage if I turn it off?

No. The ban applies to all lithium batteries regardless of whether the device is powered on or off. A turned-off phone still contains a lithium battery and cannot go in checked luggage. The device must travel in your carry-on bag.

What if my carry-on is full and I need to check a bag with my laptop?

You cannot check a laptop or any device with a lithium battery. If your carry-on is full, remove items from it to make room for your electronics, or purchase an additional carry-on bag at the airport. Some airlines allow a personal item plus a carry-on, so a small backpack may fit under the seat in front of you.

Are power banks allowed in carry-on luggage?

Yes, power banks are allowed in carry-on luggage. Tape the battery terminals before packing to prevent short circuits. Most airlines allow one or two power banks per passenger, but check your specific airline's rules. Power banks cannot go in checked luggage under any circumstances.

Do I need to declare my lithium batteries to TSA or the airline?

You do not need to declare standard consumer electronics like phones or laptops to TSA at security. However, if you are carrying medical devices with lithium batteries or traveling internationally, contact your airline before your flight to confirm their policies. Some airlines request advance notice for certain types of lithium batteries.

Can I ship lithium batteries separately to my destination instead of flying with them?

Lithium batteries are also restricted in mail and shipping. Ground shipping of lithium batteries is possible under specific conditions, but air shipping is banned. If you need a device at your destination, pack it in your carry-on and bring it with you on the plane.