Yes — lithium batteries under 100 watt-hours are allowed on a plane, and spare batteries must travel in your carry-on rather than checked baggage. Batteries installed in a device may be checked. Protect spare terminals with tape or an individual case so they cannot short circuit.
Here is what you need to know about bringing Lithium Batteries (Under 100Wh) through airport security. Lithium Batteries (Under 100Wh) is allowed with conditions in checked baggage — Must be in device or protected from short circuit. Standard lithium batteries (phones, laptops, cameras) are allowed. Spare batteries should be in carry-on. TSA officers have the final say on what is allowed through the checkpoint. If you are unsure, check the TSA website or ask an officer at the airport.
| Item | Carry-on | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Lithium-ion under 100Wh | Allowed | Only inside a device |
| Lithium-ion 100-160Wh | Airline approval, 2 spares max | Not allowed |
| Lithium-ion over 160Wh | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Alkaline AA / AAA | Allowed | Allowed |
| NiMH rechargeable | Allowed | Allowed |
| Car / lead-acid battery | Not allowed | Not allowed |
Electronic devices and batteries have specific TSA screening rules. In standard security lanes, laptops and large electronics must be removed from your bag. Lithium batteries under 100 watt-hours are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags when installed in devices, but spare lithium batteries must travel in carry-on luggage.
Only when installed in the device they power. Spare or loose lithium batteries must be in your carry-on so the crew can respond if one overheats.
There is no fixed count for batteries under 100Wh carried for personal use, though airlines may question quantities that look commercial. Batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh are limited to two spares with airline approval.
Multiply the voltage by the amp-hour rating, or divide milliamp-hours by 1,000 first. A 20,000mAh pack at 3.7V is 74Wh, which is under the 100Wh limit.
Yes, Lithium Batteries (Under 100Wh) is allowed in carry-on bags through TSA security. No special packaging or declaration is required.
Lithium Batteries (Under 100Wh) is allowed in checked baggage with conditions. Must be in device or protected from short circuit.
Lithium Batteries (Under 100Wh) is generally permitted, but a TSA officer may inspect it further. You might be asked to remove it from your bag for separate screening.
TSA rules apply at U.S. airports regardless of destination. However, your arrival country may have different import regulations for Lithium Batteries (Under 100Wh). Check the customs rules of your destination before packing.