Is Your Lithium Battery Allowed in Your Carry-on?

Did you know there are new TSA regulations in 2025 regarding lithium batteries in your carry-on bags?  

Lithium batteries are allowed only in carry-on luggage, but now with specific limitations depending on their watt-hour (Wh) rating for lithium-ion or lithium content (grams) for lithium metal batteries.

• Lithium-Ion Battery Regulations (Rechargeable)
  • Up to 100 Wh per battery:
    • Allowed in carry-on luggage without airline approval
    • Includes most personal electronics (laptops, phones, tablets)
    • Spare batteries must be individually protected (e.g., in original packaging, battery case, or with taped terminals)
      
      
  • 101 to 160 Wh per battery:
    • Allowed in carry-on luggage with specific airline approval
    • Covers larger devices such as professional video equipment or extended-life laptop batteries
    • Limit: 2 spare batteries per passenger with airline approval
      
      
  • Over 160 Wh per battery: 
    • Not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage
    • Must be shipped as cargo under dangerous goods regulations
      
      
• Lithium Metal Battery Regulations (Non-Rechargeable)
  • Up to 2 grams of lithium content per battery
    • Allowed in carry-on luggage
      • Typical for coin-cell batteries and smaller electronics like watches and medical devices
        
        
  • Over 2 grams: Prohibited from both carry-on and checked baggage

But I just have a Power Bank, does this affect me?

Most all power banks and rechargeable batteries for things like CPAP Machines, Toys. Tools, Flashlights contain Lithium Batteries 

Is your Power Banks or External Battery Too Big?

Their capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh), even if some only list mAh (milliamp hours).  So how do you know the size of your battery?  Check the battery and look for the Wh rating.  If you cnaly find a mAh rating, you can convert mAh to Wh using this formula:

1. Check the label for Wh rating
   
   
2. Get approval from your airline ahead of time
   
   
3. Pack no more than two if between 101–160 Wh

Important: Power banks are not allowed in checked luggage under any circumstances.

Why Are These Limits in Place?

Lithium batteries pose a risk of thermal runaway—a chain reaction where overheating can lead to fire or explosion. In a pressurized aircraft cabin, especially in cargo holds, this risk becomes more serious. That’s why most lithium batteries are restricted to carry-on bags, where crew can respond quickly in the event of an incident.

Practical Battery Tips for Travelers

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your lithium batteries comply with airline rules:

1. Know Your Devices: Check the battery capacity of your laptops, drones, power banks, and other devices before packing.

2. Label Batteries: Make sure your spare batteries are labeled with their Wh or lithium content. If not, check the manufacturer’s specifications.

3. Protect Spare Batteries: Keep terminals covered and store spares in a case to prevent short circuits.

4. Pack in Carry-On Only: Do not pack lithium batteries in checked baggage—even if you're not carrying spares. Devices like e-cigarettes and vapes must also go in your carry-on or personal item.

5. Check Airline Policies: Some airlines may have more restrictive policies. Always review the airline’s battery policy before flying, especially for international carriers.

6. Carry Documentation: If you’re carrying batteries between 101–160 Wh, have the approval email or documentation from the airline available.

Examples of Common Devices and Battery Limits

Conclusion

Lithium-ion and lithium metal batteries are essential to modern travel, but they come with regulations that every traveler should understand. The good news is that most personal devices fall within the safe range and can be carried in your hand luggage without issue. The key is knowing the limits, protecting your batteries, and getting airline approval when needed.

By following these guidelines, you’ll breeze through airport security with all your essential devices ready to go—no surprises, no delays, and no last-minute confiscations.

Safe travels—and pack smart! 🧳⚡✈️