So, can you bring a heating pad in carry-on or checked baggage?
Planning to bring take your heating pad on your flight, but you are not sure if they are allowed or not?
Don’t worry, you can take your heating pad on most airlines. Yes, you can still wear it if you want, and it is easy and safe; however, gel heating pads are not allowed in carry-on baggage.
This pos t covers everything you need to know about traveling with heating pads and some tips on taking your pad on airplanes.
I will not mention how to wear, the benefits, or any advice because we are not health specialists, but you can refer to this article on Healthline for the best practices of using heating pads.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
- Electric heating pads are allowed in carry-on and checked bags.
- Gel or chemical heating pads are not allowed in carry-on but are okay in checked bags.
- Most U.S. and international airlines follow TSA rules and allow electric heating pads.
- Some airlines may not allow you to use a heating pad during the flight.
- For international travel, check plug compatibility before use.
TSA Heating Pads on Planes
According to TSA (The Transportation Security Administration), you are allowed to carry your electric heating pad through the security checkpoint without any issues.
Chemical or gel heating pads are not allowed in carry-on baggage because gels, aerosols, and liquids must follow the TSA liquid rules, which allow containers up to 3.4 oz inside a quart-sized bag.
Can You Take Heating Pads in Carry-On Baggage?
You can bring electric heating pads on board the airplane on most airlines; however, some airlines may allow them only inside your carry-on bag but will not allow them to be operated.
On the other hand, gel heating pads are not allowed in your carry-on baggage, as they contain gels.
The gel inside is essentially a liquid, so you won’t be able to carry a heating pad that large in your carry-on.
Can You Take Heating Pads in Checked Baggage?
Well, if you are not planning to use your electric heating pad on your flight, you can bring it inside your checked baggage, which most airlines prefer.
You might be worried that you cannot bring your gel heating pad in your carry-on baggage, but it is OK in checked baggage.
Just make sure that it is packed securely.
What Is a Gel Heating Pad?
It is also called a chemical heating pad, which is a pad with a liquid inside.
Disposable chemical pads employ a one-time exothermic chemical reaction. One type, frequently used for hand warmers, is triggered by unwrapping an air-tight packet containing slightly moist iron powder and salt or catalysts, which rusts over a period of hours after being exposed to oxygen in the air. Another type contains separate compartments within the pad; when the user squeezes the pad, a barrier ruptures and the compartments mix, producing heat such as the enthalpy change of solution of calcium chloride dissolving.
— Wikipedia
Taking Heating Pads on U.S. Airlines
As long as the TSA allows heating pads, most U.S. airlines will allow them.
I just found that many websites claim that American Airlines banned using them on board the airplane, but until today there is no clarification on the airline’s website or on Twitter.
Taking Heating Pads for International Travel
We’ve researched the rules on taking heating pads on international airlines, and we found that the majority of airlines allow them in both carry-on and checked baggage.
British Airways
@Lee asked British Airways if he could bring his heating pad in carry-on, and the airline replied that there are no restrictions.
Air Canada
@Stephanie obviously did not ask @Air Canada if she could bring an electric heating pad, but she brought it anyway. However, the plug didn’t work for her.
Which heating pad is better for airplanes?
I researched the best heating pads for airplanes.
Many websites prefer gel heating pads, which are not allowed on most airlines.
But electric heating pads are good for airplanes, as they are easy to pack and will fit in your personal item when you leave the airplane.
Final Thoughts on Bringing Heating Pads On A Plane.
Generally, you won’t have a hard time traveling with electric heating pads, especially if you’re traveling domestically or flying with a U.S. airline.
But you should not bring a gel heating pad in your carry-on. We suggest placing it in your checked bag.
Remember, gels, aerosols, and liquids must adhere to the TSA liquid rules as stated above.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
TSA Heating Pad FAQ
Do I need to remove my heating pad at TSA security?
Yes, sometimes. TSA officers may ask you to take out your heating pad from your bag and place it in a separate bin for additional screening. It is a good idea to let the officer know you are carrying one to avoid any confusion.
Are battery-powered or cordless heating pads with lithium batteries allowed?
Yes, but they must be placed in your carry-on baggage, not in checked luggage. Most airlines follow the FAA battery guidelines, which means your heating pad’s battery should not exceed 100 watt-hours.
Can you take infrared heating pads on a plane?
The TSA will treat infrared heating pads the same as electric ones since both use electricity. You can place them in both carry-on and checked bags without restrictions.
Are there size restrictions for heating pads in carry-on luggage?
The TSA does not have any specific size limits for heating pads, but they must fit within your airline’s standard carry-on size (usually around 18 x 14 x 8 inches). If you pack one, just make sure it fits properly inside your bag.
Can you bring Thermacare Heat Wraps on a plane?
Yes, Thermacare and other disposable chemical heat wraps are good to go in both carry-on and checked bags.
What are the packing tips and safety precautions for heating pads?
Always make sure your heating pad is turned off before packing. If it has a gel or liquid inside, make sure it follows the TSA liquid rules. When placing it in checked baggage, pack it securely to make sure your heating pad is not damaged.
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