Last updated on October 25, 2025
No, spare lithium batteries are not allowed in checked baggage when flying from the European Union. They must be carried in hand luggage and individually protected against short circuits.
Flying with Power: What You Need to Know
Lithium batteries are the silent workhorses of modern life. They power our phones, laptops, cameras, and even our toothbrushes. But when it comes to air travel, these compact energy sources can become a serious safety concern. That’s why the European Union has strict rules about how and where you can carry them on a flight.
If you’re packing for a trip and wondering whether you can toss a few spare batteries into your checked suitcase, the answer is a firm no. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) mandates that spare lithium batteries—including power banks—must travel in your carry-on baggage, not in the hold.
Why the Hold Is Off-Limits
Lithium batteries are known for their efficiency, but they also carry a risk of “thermal runaway”—a chain reaction that can cause overheating, fire, or even explosion. These incidents are rare but serious, and they’re harder to detect and manage in the cargo hold of an aircraft.
EASA’s safety bulletins highlight that spare batteries pose a greater risk than those installed in devices. In the event of damage or a short circuit, a loose battery can ignite, and if it’s buried in checked baggage, the crew may not be able to respond in time. That’s why the rules are clear: carry them in the cabin, where they can be monitored.
What Counts as a Spare Battery?
Spare batteries include any lithium-ion or lithium-metal cells not installed in a device. This covers power banks, camera batteries, drone batteries, and backup laptop batteries. These items must be individually protected to prevent short circuits—typically by taping the terminals or placing them in separate plastic bags.
The watt-hour (Wh) rating also matters. Batteries under 100 Wh are generally allowed without special permission. Those between 100 and 160 Wh may require airline approval. Anything above 160 Wh is prohibited for passenger transport.
Rules for Devices and Installed Batteries
Devices with installed lithium batteries—like smartphones and tablets—can be carried in either checked or hand baggage, though hand baggage is preferred. If you must pack a device in your checked luggage, it should be completely switched off and protected from accidental activation.
However, even installed batteries can pose risks. EASA recommends that passengers avoid charging devices during flight using power banks, and never connect power banks while onboard.
Airline-Specific Policies
While EASA sets the baseline, individual airlines may impose stricter rules. Some limit the number of batteries you can carry, or require additional documentation for high-capacity cells. Always check with your airline before flying, especially if you’re carrying equipment like drones or professional camera gear.
Safety First, Travel Smart
The EU’s approach to lithium battery transport is rooted in safety and practicality. By keeping spare batteries in the cabin, passengers and crew can respond quickly to any issues. It’s a simple rule that helps prevent serious incidents—and ensures your devices stay powered for the journey ahead.
See more on European Union
Sources
Lithium Batteries in Aviation – European Union Aviation Safety Agency
https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/light/topics/lithium-batteries-aviation-powering-future-and-managing-risks
Accessed October 25, 2025
Dangerous Goods – European Union Aviation Safety Agency
https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/domains/air-operations/dangerous-goods
Accessed October 25, 2025