Loading Page...

Where do I put my electric toothbrush when flying?

Electric toothbrushes can be packed in carry-on or checked luggage. Pack electric toothbrushes with lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries in carry-on luggage. Here are a few more FAQs and tips for keeping your teeth clean and fresh while flying. (Some of these might surprise you!)



When flying in 2026, the best and safest place to put your electric toothbrush is in your carry-on luggage. The reason for this is that almost all modern electric toothbrushes (such as those from Oral-B or Sonicare) are powered by Lithium-Ion batteries. International aviation safety regulations generally require devices with lithium batteries to be kept in the cabin rather than the cargo hold; in the extremely rare event of a battery fire (thermal runaway), the crew can quickly extinguish it in the cabin, whereas a fire in the cargo hold is much harder to manage. While the TSA and most airlines do technically allow electric toothbrushes in checked bags because their batteries are relatively small and "contained," keeping it in your carry-on ensures it won't be lost if your suitcase is delayed, and it allows you to freshen up during long layovers. To prevent it from accidentally turning on and vibrating in your bag—which can cause a security scare—many travelers suggest removing the brush head and storing it in a dedicated travel case or a small sealable pouch.

People Also Ask

For rechargeable brushes with lithium-ion batteries (Genius, 6000/6500/7500; says Type 3765 on bottom of handle): You can order a genuine Oral-B 220v charger (part number 81574175) directly from our Authorized NA Parts Distributor, Encompass, at: https://braun.encompass.com/item/10868429/ Oral-B/81574175/.

MORE DETAILS

When it comes to packing your toothbrush in a travel case, choose a holder that covers the brush head and offers some ventilation so that it can breathe and any wetness has a chance to dry. Better yet, if it's possible, make sure your toothbrush is completely dry before you pack it.

MORE DETAILS

Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries should be carried in carry-on baggage. Most other consumer devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage. For more information to portable electronic devices, see the FAA regulations.

MORE DETAILS

Lithium batteries can catch fire
While not all batteries are prohibited in checked luggage, lithium batteries are considered hazardous and should not be packed in checked bags. If a lithium battery overheats and catches fire inside the cargo hold, the fire can quickly spread and become difficult to control.

MORE DETAILS

Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only. With airline approval, passengers may also carry up to two spare larger lithium ion batteries (101–160 Wh) or lithium metal batteries (2-8 grams).

MORE DETAILS

Damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices, which are likely to create sparks or generate a dangerous evolution of heat must not be carried aboard an aircraft (e.g. carry-on or checked baggage) unless the damaged or recalled battery has been removed, or otherwise made safe.

MORE DETAILS

Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.) Remember to check the bins and collect all belongings after going through screening.

MORE DETAILS

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.


MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Place laptops and large electrical items separately in a tray. Put coins, keys, mobile phones and other small items in your coat or hand baggage. Place your hand baggage and coat into a tray. Place any liquid items (important: see 'Liquids - 100ml rule' above), correctly bagged, into the tray.

MORE DETAILS