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What electronic devices are allowed in checked baggage?

Most consumer personal electronic devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage, including but not limited to cell phones, smart phones, data loggers, PDAs, electronic games, tablets, laptop computers, cameras, camcorders, watches, calculators, etc.



In 2026, most consumer electronic devices like laptops, tablets, cameras, and handheld gaming consoles are allowed in checked baggage, provided they are completely powered off and protected from accidental activation. However, there is a critical safety restriction: spare lithium batteries and portable power banks are strictly prohibited in checked bags because they pose a fire risk; these must always be carried in your cabin luggage. Additionally, "smart luggage" must have a removable battery to be checked. For large devices containing integrated batteries, airlines generally permit them in the cargo hold as long as they aren't "recalled" or damaged units. It is a peer-to-peer best practice to keep expensive electronics in your carry-on anyway to avoid the risk of theft or damage from rough baggage handling. Always check for specific 2026 updates regarding high-capacity batteries (over 100Wh), as these often require special airline approval even if they are integrated into a device.

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PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES Devices containing lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries (laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc.) should be transported in carry-on baggage and not placed in checked baggage.

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If you do need to pack electronics in your checked luggage, make sure they are well-protected and securely packed in a padded, hard-sided case or wrap. Remove all batteries from electronic devices before packing them in your checked luggage.

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Some objects – like your hair straightener – are safe to bring on board. The Transportation Security Administration does not list this object on its list of prohibited items. Hair straighteners with a butane cartridge may not be carried onto an airplane and should be packed into checked baggage.

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If you mean a wall charger (a thing that plugs into a wall socket and charges your phone and tablet), then yes, you can check it in with your luggage. If you are referring to a power bank, then no. It has to go with you in the cabin.

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We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage.

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Checked Baggage Screening The majority of checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical bag search. Inspection Notices: TSA may inspect your checked baggage during the screening process. If your property is physically inspected, TSA will place a notice of baggage inspection inside your bag.

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It is recommended that medication be clearly labeled to facilitate the screening process. You may bring medically necessary liquids, medications and creams in excess of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag. Remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings.

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Cell phones, cell phone battery charging cases, laptops, cameras, smart phones, electronics, data loggers, PDAs containing lithium batteries, games, tablets, watches, etc. Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries (laptops, smartphones, tablets, etc.) should be carried in carry-on baggage.

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Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from passenger-carried portable electronic devices (PED) on commercial airplanes has been reported as being responsible for anomalous events during flight. The operation of PEDs produces uncontrolled electromagnetic emissions that could interfere with airplane systems.

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The decision is ultimately up to you. The TSA strongly recommends that you carry your valuables–such as jewelry, money, identification, and electronics–in a carry-on bag. If you're not packing any valuable items in your checked bag, you don't necessarily need a lock.

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The groin area between the abdomen and thigh contains several lymph nodes, blood vessels, and muscles. Airport body scanners often target the groin area because it contains sensitive areas that could be mistaken for weapons or explosives.

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Is toothpaste considered a liquid by the TSA? Yes, toothpaste must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels. Toothpaste can be brought through TSA security in your carry-on as long as it is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a 1-quart bag.

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Checked Bags: Yes
The capacity of each container must not exceed 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces). See the FAA regulations for more information. Permitted aerosol release devices (button/nozzle) must be protected by caps or other suitable means to prevent accidental release.

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If you want to travel with your full-size aerosol containers of antiperspirant, hairspray, suntan lotion, shaving cream, and hair mousse, you can do so by packing them in your checked baggage. That way, you'll be sure to have your favorite toiletries with you when you arrive at your destination.

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These chargers or power banks are restricted to carry-on luggage only according to FAA and IATA guidelines. They're not allowed in checked luggage because of the risk of lithium batteries catching fire. In the cabin, such an event can be promptly handled, but in the hold, it could lead to dangerous situations.

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Checked Bags: No Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery must be packed in carry-on bags. For more information, see the FAA guidance on portable rechargers. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?' page.

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Taking liquids through security
  • all drinks, including water.
  • liquid or semi-liquid foods, for example soup, jam, honey and syrups.
  • cosmetics and toiletries, including creams, lotions, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss.
  • sprays, including shaving foam, hairspray and spray deodorants.
  • pastes, including toothpaste.


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