Skip to main content Skip to navigation within this section
Print

Batteries - lithium

 
Carry-on bag
Checked-in luggage
Batteries - lithium
 
 

Can I take this item on a plane?

Yes, spare lithium batteries can go in your carry-on bag, but not checked luggage. Batteries that power any device can go in checked-in luggage if they are in the electronic device and the device is turned off.

What are the restrictions?

  • Spare or loose batteries must be carried in carry-on, they are prohibited from checked luggage.
  • You do not need approval of the airline for lithium batteries that do not exceed 100 Watthours [Wh] or 2 grams[g].
  • You can take a maximum of two spare lithium batteries [or power banks], that exceed 100Wh but not 160Wh [or 2g but not 8g] but only with your airline’s approval.
  • Batteries that power any device can go in checked luggage if they are in the device and the device is turned off.
  • Each person is allowed a total of 20 spare batteries [including powerbanks] unless an airline has approved the carriage of more batteries. The 20 spare batteries can all be lithium batteries or a combination of lithium, dry-cell, nickel-metal hydride and non-spillable batteries.
  • Each spare battery, must be individually protected by being in retail package, individual bag, a protective pouch, or with tape placed over exposed terminals.

Why is this item restricted?

What happens if I have a restricted item in my carry-on bag?

You will be asked to relinquish all dangerous or prohibited items found in your carry-on luggage. If you refuse:

  • you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
  • your airline will be advised of your refusal.

How does Aviation Security screen for restricted items?

We x-ray bags going on planes to make sure there is nothing dangerous in them. If something comes up on the x-ray that needs checking, the bag will be opened, searched and any dangerous or prohibited item will be removed.

Print