Love your OneWheel and planning to take it on your next adventure? and wondering, if you can take a OneWheel on a plane?.
You can take OneWheel on a plane, however, the FAA, the TSA and most airlines are pretty strict with lithium batteries.
OneWheels with Lithium batteries under 100 Wh are allowed in carry-on luggage, while batteries between 100 Wh and 160 Wh will require airline approval and you can take them only in carry-on baggage, while those above 160 Wh are generally prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.
This post covers everything you need to know about traveling with OneWheel in both domestic and international flights.
Let’s find out.
TSA and FAA Rules for taking OneWheels on planes.
TSA Guidelines
The TSA allows devices powered by lithium-ion batteries like OneWheels to be carried on planes, but the rules depend on the battery capacity (Watt hour).
Batteries with a capacity exceeding 100 Wh often require airline approval, and those above 160 Wh do not have a chance to travel with you on a plane.
Here an answer from the @ASKTsa team on X.
FAA Restrictions
The FAA have strict rules when it comes to lithium-ion batteries:
- Carry-On Luggage: Batteries under 100 Wh are typically allowed without restrictions. Between 100-160 Wh, you’ll need prior approval.
- Checked Luggage: Batteries of any size are largely prohibited unless installed in a device, and even then, high-capacity batteries may be denied.
Most OneWheel batteries far exceed the 147 Wh limit, making them within the FAA limit of 100-160 Wh for lithium batteries.
Airline Policies.
Airlines differ in how they handle personal electric vehicles like OneWheels. Policies often depend on factors like:
- Domestic vs. International Travel: International airlines may have stricter rules due to varying country-specific regulations, the rules I mentioned are generally for passengers traveling within the U.S.
- Battery Capacity Limits: Some airlines explicitly ban high-capacity devices, while others may permit them with prior approval.
Examples of Airline Policies
- United, American, JetBlue, DeltaAirlines: most of these airlines will approve OneWheel if the battery is within the FAA limit of 100-160Wh.
- Lenient Airlines: Smaller or regional airlines may allow OneWheels if the battery complies with FAA limits.
Always contact your airline in advance to avoid surprises at the airport.
Before taking a OneWheel on a plane.
Verify Your Battery.
Find the watt-hour rating on your OneWheel battery. If it’s lower than 100 Wh, you’re likely in the clear. If it exceeds 160 Wh, consider alternative options.
Disassembling the OneWheel.
However, you may need some assistance, most OneWheel models allow battery removal.
You can reach out to OneWheel support to give you help and remove the battery successfully, you will have a higher chance to travel with your device if the battery is removed.
Shipping Options.
Remember that the issue here is not the self balancing board itself, it is about the lithium-ion batteries, so shipping the battery separately is something you can consider.
Services like FedEx or UPS specialize in handling high-capacity batteries and can ensure safe transport.
Renting or Borrowing.
Many popular travel destinations now offer OneWheel rentals. This can be a convenient way to enjoy your favorite device without the hassle of transporting your own.
Pro Tips for Traveling with Other Electric Personal Devices.
- Contact the Airline: Confirm the airline’s policy on OneWheels and lithium-ion batteries before booking your ticket.
- Have Documentation Ready: Carry battery specifications or a letter from the manufacturer to present at security or check-in.
- Pack Smart: Secure your OneWheel with protective padding if you’re shipping it to avoid damage during transit.
Final Thoughts.
Generally, taking OneWheel on a plane will depend on the battery capacity.
Lithium batteries under 160 Wh are allowed on planes carry-on baggage, with prior approval of the airline, while Lithium batteries above 160 Wh are no go on airlines.
If you have a OneWheel XR for example you may want to consider alternative options that I mentioned above.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
FAQs
A. Yes, if the battery watt-hour rating is below 160 Wh and meets airline guidelines you are good to go.
A. Stay calm and present documentation about the battery. If denied, explore options like shipping your self balancing board.
A. Policies evolve, so it’s best to check with the airline directly before every trip.
Read also:
- Can You Bring a Longboard On a Plane? TSA Rules
- Can You Take Roller Skates On a Plane?
- Can You Take a Skateboard On a Plane?
- Can You Check A Bike On A Plane?
- Can I Bring a Paddle Board On a Plane?
- Can I Take My Electric Scooter On a Plane?