Since January 1, 2013, the rules for transporting lithium batteries have become stricter. This is due to the risk of battery short circuit and subsequent ignition.

A short circuit is possible when an unprotected battery terminal comes into contact with other batteries, metal objects, or conductive surfaces. When transported by plane, batteries must be separated to prevent short circuits and damage.

What are lithium batteries and what devices contain them

There are two main types of lithium batteries:

  • Lithium-ion batteries. They are used in mobile phones, laptops, cameras, etc., and can be recharged.

  • Lithium-metal batteries, which are non-rechargeable and used in watches, calculators, and some cameras.

Which batteries can be transported in carry-on and checked luggage

Transportation rules depend solely on battery power:


In the table, battery power is indicated in watt-hours, while on our devices, it is most often in amperes.

To determine power in watt-hours, use the formula:

Ah (ampere-hours) x V (volts) = Wh (watt-hours)

If the battery power is indicated in  milliamperes, for example, 15000 mAh, then milliamperes should be divided by 1000.

15000 / 1000 = 15 Ah

For example, we are carrying a portable charging device. Its battery capacity is 15000 mAh, voltage 5 volts. We have already found above that 15000 mAh is 15Ah, then according to the formula above

15*5 = 75 Wh

Since 75 < 100, we can carry this device in carry-on luggage without prior approval from the carrier.

Please note: the transportation of spare batteries (i.e., separate from the device) in checked luggage is prohibited regardless of battery power. Portable charging devices are also considered spare batteries.

How to prevent battery short circuit

The most reliable way is to pack the battery or devices containing it in a non-conductive material, for example, a regular plastic bag. Moreover, each bag should contain only one battery, without any foreign objects, especially metal ones.

How many lithium batteries can be transported

Each passenger can transport up to 10 lithium batteries or devices containing them.

Furthermore, there should also be no more than 10 batteries in a single suitcase or bag. This is important to consider if you are traveling as a pair with one suitcase.