Can I bring a speaker on a plane? 2025

So, you’re packing for your trip and thinking, can I bring my speaker on the plane? You’re not alone.

Whether it is a chill Bluetooth speaker or a party starting subwoofer, it is totally fair to wonder what the rules are.

Yes, you can bring a speaker on a plane, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you toss it in your bag.

In this post, we have broken it all down: what is allowed, what to avoid, and how to travel smart with your speakers.

Let’s dive right in.

 portable speaker

Can You Bring a Speaker on a Plane?

Most airlines are cool with speakers as long as they don’t contain lithium batteries over 100 watt-hours and fit within your airline’s size and weight rules.

You might be thinking, “Wait, what about the deal with lithium batteries?” We I will get into that below, but here is the short version: if it’s a regular Bluetooth speaker, you are totally fine.

Can You Bring Big Speakers in Carry-On Bags?

According to the TSA, speakers big or small are allowed in carry-on luggage.

screenshot from TSA website on taking speakers on planes
Take a speaker on a plane/ TSA

That said, if you’re bringing a bulky speaker, make sure it will fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Airlines will not let it slide just because it’s for your vacation playlist.

Speakers Carry-on baggage Checked baggage
Bluetooth q speakersAllowed Allowed
JBL speakersAllowed Allowed
SubwooferAllowed Allowed
Bookshelf speakersAllowed Allowed
Dolby atmosphere speakersmay be larger for carry-onAllowed
Tower speakersmay be larger for carry-onAllowed
Speakers outdoorAllowed Allowed
The table present several types of speakers and if they are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage

What About Battery Rules?

Here’s the thing, the TSA and FAA don’t mind devices with built in batteries what they care about is spare lithium batteries and power banks.

So if your speaker has a built-in battery under 100Wh (which most do), you’re golden.

Someone actually asked the TSA on X (Formerly Twitter), and the AskTSA team replied:

Portable speakers are fine in carry-on bags. Just make sure you place them in a bin for X-ray screening.

The AskTSA answer on X about taking bluetooth speaker in carry-on
take a speaker in carry on bag/ TSA

Can I Carry Speakers In Check-in Luggage?

Deepak asked the TSA about flying with his Portable Bluetooth speaker.

The TSA replied that wireless speakers and radios are good to carry in checked baggage.

The AskTSA answer on X about taking bluetooth speaker and FM radio in carry-on and checked baggage
take a speaker in checked bag/ TSA

Note that baggage handlers aren’t known for their gentle touch.

If you check your speaker, pack it like it’s fragile. Wrap it in soft clothes or bubble wrap to avoid any damage.

Can You Take Bluetooth Speakers on a Plane?

Absolutely. Bluetooth speakers are good to go in both carry-on and checked bags.

Just keep in mind that, batteries over 100 watt-hours might need airline approval, and you can bring 1 spare battery (up to 300Wh) or 2 spares (up to 160Wh each) in carry-on, if they’re uninstalled.

But again, most Bluetooth speakers fall well below those numbers.

Can You Bring More Than One Speaker?

Sure, you could say the sky’s the limit but your airline might think otherwise.

In my experience, as long as your gear fits within the carry-on or checked baggage rules, no one will stop you from bringing multiple speakers.

But airlines like American have their own limits.

For example:

You can bring up to 2 small portable speakers or 1 soundbar for personal use.

Can I bring a Large Speaker On a Plane?

If you want to fly with your large speaker, you will need to make sure it is within the size and weight limits of the airline.

If you are not sure you can contact your airline to make sure what their rules are about large items.

Most airlines will handle your speaker as standard luggage.

Can You Bring a Bluetooth Speaker on International Flights?

Yep, you can.

Whether it is domestic or international, Bluetooth speakers are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage.

If you’re bringing more than three speakers, you might run into issues at customs especially if it looks like you’re importing them for resale.

But if it’s one or two for personal use or as gifts, you’re good.

The AskTSA answer on X about taking bluetooth speaker  in carry-on in international flights

Final Thoughts

You can fly Witt all types of speakers, whether it is Bluetooth or any other kind of speakers on airplanes.

Carry-on is the safest place for your speaker, you’ll keep it in sight, avoid rough handling, and sidestep potential battery related issues in checked bags.

That said, if you do check your speaker, make sure to wrap it well soft clothes, bubble wrap, anything to cushion the ride.

I hope this helps

Happy travels

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