Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries

Understanding What Passengers Are Allowed to Carry

When traveling by air, it is important to understand that passengers are only authorized to carry certain types of dangerous goods in their carry-on luggage, and only under specific conditions. Items such as lithium batteries and electronic devices powered by lithium batteries are permitted, but they fall under strict limitations. For those who regularly use the IATA Regulations in their professional duties, it is always worthwhile to do your family and friends a favor by checking the rules in advance, especially the table titled “Table 2.3.A – Provisions for Dangerous Goods Carried by Passengers or Crew.” This table provides a clear overview of what is allowed, what is restricted, and what cannot be transported at all.

Recent IATA Updates on Spare Batteries and Power Banks

In the most recent IATA addendum, there has been an important update regarding the carriage of spare batteries. The rules now explicitly include battery banks, which have rapidly become popular because of their small size and high capacity. These power banks are easy to slip into a carry-on and very convenient when travelling, especially if your phone, tablet, or laptop battery runs low. However, the new changes reinforce that although battery banks are authorized to be carried, they are not permitted to be plugged into the aircraft to recharge themselves. They may be used to charge other devices, but they cannot be charged onboard the aircraft.

Quantity Limits and Additional National Restrictions

Table 2.3.A also provides the limitations for the quantities and types of items that may be carried by passengers. It is equally important to understand that while IATA provides the international baseline, individual countries and national authorities may impose further restrictions. This means the regulations serve as the starting point, and travelers should always be prepared for additional rules that may apply based on the airline or the departing and arriving states.

Gate-Checked Bags: A Commonly Overlooked Risk

Another issue that often gets overlooked is what happens when passengers arrive at the gate, and the crew announces that there is insufficient overhead space and requests volunteers to check their carry-on luggage. Many of us have experienced the sideways glance at the traveler juggling a small suitcase, a backpack, and a laptop bag, wondering who will be asked to check something. When we are not using our carry-on for anything important, many of us will simply offer to check it at the gate. The risk here is that gate agents do not always remind passengers to remove items that must stay in the cabin, such as spare lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, or power banks. There have been incidents where such items were left inside a bag that was checked at the gate and placed in the cargo hold. One example involved a WestJet flight. The flight bound for Vancouver had just taken off on June 14, 2018, when an e-cigarette in a gate-checked bag activated and went into thermal runaway, causing a fire in the belly of the aircraft. Fortunately, the crew was able to return safely, but the incident serves as an important reminder. If you ever agree to check your bag at the gate, always remove any dangerous goods that must remain with you in the cabin.

Planning Ahead for Stress-Free Winter Travel

As winter approaches and many snowbirds prepare to escape the Great White North for warmer destinations, it is well worth taking a few minutes to call your airline and confirm what you are permitted to carry, both in your checked luggage and in your carry-on. There is nothing more frustrating than being dropped off at the airport only to discover that something important cannot travel with you and must be left behind. A little preparation helps your trip start smoothly and ensures you can enjoy your winter getaway with complete peace of mind.

Need clarity on lithium battery rules before your next trip?

ICC’s dangerous goods experts help organizations and individuals stay aligned with IATA requirements through practical guidance, training, and regulatory insight—so compliance doesn’t become a last-minute scramble. Connect with ICC to travel confidently and mitigate risk before you ever reach the gate. Contact our Regulatory Experts with questions about the IATA Addendum or Regulations—we’re here to help. Give us a call at 855.734.5469 or send us an email.