You're packing your camera, drone, or earbuds—and wondering if your LiPo battery¹ will make it through airport security².

Yes, you can take lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries³ on a plane, but only if they comply with airline and aviation authority rules⁴ for battery capacity, packaging, and placement⁵.

Regulations vary based on watt-hour (Wh) capacity and whether the battery is installed or carried as a spare. Let’s break it down clearly.

What do airline and aviation rules say?

This isn’t a grey area—airlines have strict policies for lithium batteries to avoid fire hazards during flights.

The FAA, IATA, TSA, and most airlines allow lithium polymer batteries⁶ under 100Wh in carry-on luggage⁷. Batteries over 100Wh require airline approval⁸. Spare batteries are never allowed in checked luggage.

These rules apply to both domestic and international flights.

Dive deeper: Who sets these rules?

✈️ Key Regulatory Authorities

Authority	Role
FAA (USA)	Governs domestic airline safety9 and battery rules10
IATA	International air transport standards, including lithium battery limits11
TSA (USA)	Enforces FAA rules at U.S. security checkpoints

Most airlines follow these agencies’ lead—but always check your carrier’s site before you fly.

How much battery capacity can I take?

The number one rule for battery safety in air travel: watch your Wh rating.

You can carry LiPo batteries¹² under 100Wh¹³ in carry-on baggage without restriction. Batteries between 100–160Wh need airline approval¹⁴. Over 160Wh? You can't bring them aboard.

Dive deeper: Battery capacity categories

🔋 Lithium Polymer Battery Travel Limits

Capacity Range	Carry-On	Checked Bag	Airline Approval	Quantity Limit
≤ 100Wh	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	Reasonable
100–160Wh	✅ Yes	❌ No	✅ Yes	Max 2 spares
> 160Wh	❌ No	❌ No	❌ Not allowed	0

To calculate watt-hours (if only voltage and capacity are shown):
Wh = Voltage × Amp-Hours

Example: A 3.7V, 2Ah battery = 7.4Wh → ✅ allowed.

Can I put LiPo batteries in my checked luggage?

Short answer? Don’t.

You cannot pack spare lithium polymer batteries in checked luggage. Only batteries installed in devices may be allowed, and only if the device is turned off and well-protected.

Spare batteries in cargo holds pose too much risk if they overheat or catch fire.

Dive deeper: Why carry-on is safer

• Cabin crews can monitor battery condition during flight.
• Fire-suppressing tools (like Halon extinguishers) are available onboard.
• Cargo areas are less accessible during emergencies.

How should I pack lithium polymer batteries?

Don’t just throw batteries in your bag and hope for the best.

All lithium polymer batteries must be packed to prevent short-circuiting, damage, or accidental activation. Use original packaging or insulated covers for terminals.

Dive deeper: Packing checklist for LiPo batteries

✅ Battery Packing Guidelines

• Use original manufacturer packaging when possible
• Cover terminals with insulating tape
• Place in fireproof LiPo safe bags
• Store in separate compartments—not loose with metal items
• Keep batteries easily accessible in your carry-on

For extra safety, pack only the batteries you truly need.

Can I carry spare lithium polymer batteries?

Yes—but the rules get stricter for spares.

Spare LiPo batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage and must be individually protected to avoid contact with other terminals or metal objects.

No spares in checked luggage. Ever.

Dive deeper: Quantity and storage for spares

⚠️ Spare Battery Transport Rules

Capacity	Max Quantity	Notes
≤ 100Wh	No formal limit (reasonable)	Fireproof storage recommended
100–160Wh	Max 2 per passenger	Airline approval required
> 160Wh	Not permitted	Must be shipped as cargo

Keep spare batteries separated, insulated, and clearly labeled if possible.

Are there any international differences in LiPo battery policies?

Yes—rules vary slightly by country and airline.

Most international carriers follow IATA’s standards, but countries like Japan (PSE), Korea (KC), and the EU (CE/RoHS) may require specific certifications or label formats.

Dive deeper: Key country-specific notes

Region/Country	Notes
EU (EASA)	Follow IATA rules, more focus on CE and RoHS compliance15
Japan	PSE mark16 required for commercial battery imports
Korea	KC certification17 for medium/high capacity batteries
Australia	Prohibits all spare batteries in checked luggage

Always verify with the airline and destination customs office before flying internationally with LiPo batteries.

What happens if a battery malfunctions mid-flight?

It’s rare—but airlines are prepared.

Cabin crews are trained to handle lithium battery fires using containment bags and specialized extinguishers.

If you notice smoke, heat, or swelling, notify a flight attendant immediately.

Dive deeper: Emergency battery handling in flight

• Flight attendants use fire-resistant gloves
• Many planes carry Li-ion fire bags
• Cabin crew may isolate overheating devices in galley ovens (true!)

Your job? Be observant. And never ignore a swelling or hot battery before you board.

Conclusion

Yes, you can take lithium polymer batteries on a plane—as long as they’re under 100Wh, stored safely in your carry-on, and not damaged. Check your airline’s specific policies, package spares correctly, and you’ll fly worry-free with your tech ready for the skies.