Traveling with electronics is a must in 2026, but lithium batteries can be tricky if you don’t understand the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026. These batteries power phones, laptops, cameras, e-bikes, medical devices, and more. But because they can overheat, the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 set clear requirements to keep flights safe.
This guide explains the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026, what’s allowed, what isn’t, how to pack them properly, and real tips for smooth security screening.
Why the TSA Has Rules for Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries are everywhere. But they contain stored energy that can spark or overheat if damaged. That’s why the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 focus on:
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Keeping batteries in the passenger cabin
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Limiting capacity based on size
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Protecting terminals and preventing short circuits
Lithium batteries can cause fires if mishandled. The TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 are designed to reduce that risk.
Core Rule: Lithium Batteries Must Go in Carry-Ons
The most important part of the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 is simply this:
All lithium batteries must be packed in your carry-on luggage.
They are not allowed in checked bags — period. That’s because in the cabin, flight crews can respond quickly if a battery malfunctions. Putting batteries in checked luggage violates TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 and will lead to confiscation.
TSA Battery Capacity Limits You Must Know
The TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 depend heavily on capacity. The airline and TSA use watt-hours (Wh) or lithium content (grams) to limit what’s allowed.
1. Small Lithium Ion Batteries (Under 100 Wh)
This category covers most:
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Smartphones
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Tablets
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Standard power banks (e.g., ~20,000 mAh)
Under the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026, batteries ≤100 Wh are allowed without airline approval, as long as they stay in carry-on.
2. Medium Batteries (100–160 Wh)
Common for:
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Larger power banks
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Some professional camera gear
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Some medical devices
Per the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026:
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You must get approval from the airline before flying
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Each 100–160 Wh battery counts toward your limit
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Usually limited to 2 batteries per passenger
Always check with your airline — this step is required under the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
3. Large Batteries (Over 160 Wh)
These often power:
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Electric bikes
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Scooters
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Some wheelchairs
The TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 say large batteries over 160 Wh are generally not allowed on passenger aircraft — even in carry-on. They may only travel as cargo under special handling.
How to Find the Wh Rating
To comply with the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026, you must know your battery’s rating. Many devices list:
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Wh directly
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Or mAh + voltage (V)
If you only see mAh:
Example:
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A 20,000 mAh battery at 3.7 V = ~74 Wh
That fits under small battery limits in the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
How Many You Can Bring
Under the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026:
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Multiple small batteries (≤100 Wh) are allowed
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Medium batteries (100–160 Wh) are usually limited to 2 per passenger
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Lithium metal batteries (rated in grams) have similar restrictions
If in doubt, check with your airline before flying — this is part of following the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
Spares and Loose Batteries
Loose batteries must be treated very carefully under the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
Common mistakes include:
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Storing batteries loose in a bag
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Batteries touching metal objects
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Damaged batteries in carry-on
Correct packing under the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026:
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Leave batteries in original packaging
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Cover terminals with tape
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Use protective cases or separate pouches
This prevents short circuits and complies with safety guidelines.
What About Medical and Mobility Batteries?
Some medical devices or mobility aids (like wheelchairs) use lithium batteries. The TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 provide exceptions if you follow specific requirements:
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Battery must be approved by airline
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Spare cells must be in carry-on
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You may need documentation from your doctor
Always coordinate with the airline ahead of your trip — medical batteries are special cases under the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
Airline Approval: Why It Matters
For medium-sized batteries (100–160 Wh), the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 require airline approval. If you skip this step:
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Your battery can be confiscated
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You might miss your flight
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You may have to pay for last-minute replacements
Getting approval usually involves:
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Emailing the airline ahead of time
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Providing the Wh rating
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Confirming your flight details
This ensures you meet the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
Special Cases: E-Bikes and Large Devices
Electric bikes and large mobility devices often have batteries well above 160 Wh. The TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 generally do not allow these batteries on passenger planes.
Options include:
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Arranging cargo transport
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Shipping batteries separately
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Renting heavy-duty batteries at your destination
Always verify before booking airfare — these situations require extra planning beyond regular TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
Inspection and Screening
At security, TSA officers may:
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Ask to see batteries
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Ask you to power on devices
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Request loose batteries for inspection
Cooperation speeds up screening and shows you understand the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make
Even experienced travelers sometimes misinterpret the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026. Avoid these pitfalls:
❌ Putting power banks in checked luggage
❌ Carrying multiple large batteries without airline approval
❌ Holding batteries over 160 Wh in carry-on
❌ Leaving batteries loose in bags with metal objects
Avoiding these improves your chances of smooth security.
International Travel Considerations
While this guide focuses on TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026, many international aviation authorities follow similar standards. However:
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Some airlines have stricter rules
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Some countries have different labelling standards
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Regulations can change
Always confirm with your airline and departure airport before travel — especially for cross-border flights.
Final Checklist for Travelers
Use this checklist to follow the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026:
✔ All batteries in carry-on
✔ Know each battery’s Wh rating
✔ Pack loose batteries safely
✔ Get airline approval for 100–160 Wh
✔ Avoid batteries over 160 Wh altogether
Following this makes security checks fast and trouble-free.
Final Thoughts
The TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 are clear: your safety and the safety of others comes first. Knowing which batteries are allowed, how to pack them, and when to get airline approval keeps you compliant and worry-free.
In 2026, power your devices without stress — just follow the TSA rules for lithium batteries in carry on 2026 and your travel will stay smooth from departure to arrival.
