The TSA and FAA recommend that you pack your personal electronics in your personal bag when traveling.
This means that most electronic devices and gadgets are permitted on planes in carry-on baggage, however there are certain restrictions that you need to keep in mind to avoid any inconvenience or delays at the security checkpoint.
In this comprehensive guide we will cover everything that you need to know about traveling with electronics, like, mobile phones, laptops, e-readers, tablets, cameras, and e-cigarettes.
Let’s dive right in.
Take Electronics Through The TSA Security Checkpoint
Before you go through the security checkpoint, there are some important things you need to remember. This will make your trip through the airport safe and quick.
You will need to remove Larger electronics from your bag and place them in a separate bin for additional screening ( like laptops, larger headphones, tablets etc…).
On the other hand you can leave small electronic devices in your bag as they won’t block the screening process ( like a small cell phone, e-readers, phone charger etc … ).
Ensure that your electronics are fully charged before taking them through the security checkpoint, the security officers may want to turn on the device to ensure that it operates and is not used for something else.
You know those bad guys use different tricks to smuggle prohibited items.
Can You Use Electronic Devices On Board The Airplane?
Yes, you can use your electronic devices on board the airplane, whether it is a phone or a laptop, to watch Netflix, listen to an audiobook or to play chess.
But there are some exceptions and limits to what you can do with your device.
For example you will need to put electronics in flight mode during your flight, so you can’t make phone calls or do face time with a friend during your flight.
Also you can’t turn on or use your device during take off and landing, that may block the movement in case of an emergency, or evacuation of the airplane.
It is better to keep your headphones handy in case you want to listen to music or watch a movie, you can’t just blast a song in the middle of a flight, your fellow passengers will get upset.
If you want to charge your device you will need to ensure that the airplane you are traveling has power outlets.
In case you did a small research and the airplane does not have power outlets you can take a power bank with you, just ensure that you don’t take a power bank that is more than 100 WH, otherwise you will need to get approval from your airline.
Take Electronic Devices In Checked Baggage
Most of the electronic devices are allowed in checked baggage, still there are some devices that you can’t bring in checked baggage like electronic cigarettes and separate lithium-ion batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries dominate almost all the nowadays electronics so it is preferred if they are packed in carry-on baggage.
The TSA and the FAA do not allow spare (uninstalled) lithium ion batteries to be transported in checked baggage.
As they are dangerous and might start a fire that can be difficult to stop.
But if you still want to take a device in a checked baggage you can remove the battery, take it with you on board and pack the device in your suitcase.
Even though I don’t recommend placing any electronics in a check bag.
Read also: How Often Are Items Stolen From Checked Bags?
How Many Electronics Can You Bring On A Plane?
When it comes to the number of electronics you can bring on a plane in both carry on and checked baggage, there are no special restrictions. but, it’s better to only take what you really need for your trip to avoid any potential loss or damage.
Taking a large number of new electronics may also raise the eyebrow of the customs officials on international flights, leading to additional scrutiny and possibly paying taxes.
So to make your travels smooth and stress-free, it’s preferable to only bring what is essential.
Final Thoughts
You can pack any type of electronics in carry-on baggage as long as it is within your airline carry-on size.
You will need to remove any electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your bag and place it in a separate bin at the security checkpoint.
In case you want to send some of your electronics in checked baggage ensure that you remove their batteries and take them with you on board, also it is advised to avoid placing any expensive devices in checked baggage.
Checked luggage is more prone to be lost, damaged or even stolen.
We hope this helps
Happy travels
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