Cables and chargers are essential items to bring during your trip. You will need them to charge your phone, computer, and camera, but can you take cables on a plane?, and what are the rules on taking cables or extension cords on planes?
Yes, you can bring cables and extensions on a plane in your carry-on or checked luggage, but it’s best to pack them in your carry-on bag for easy access.
Pack them properly in a pouch to avoid tangles and potential delays at security, and remember that power banks must go in carry-ons due to lithium battery rules.
This post covers everything you need to know about taking cable on plane in both domestic and international flights.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR
- You can pack cables in both carry-on and checked luggage with no TSA restrictions.
- Chargers, extension cords, HDMI cables, and power strips are allowed on planes.
- It’s best to keep essential cables in your carry-on for easy access during the flight or layovers.
- Power banks must be packed in carry-on bags only due to lithium battery rules.
- Packing cables neatly in an organizer helps avoid tangles and security delays.
- These rules apply to both domestic and international flights.
Do You Have To Take Out Wires For The TSA?
According to the TSA, you can bring cables and extension cords in both carry-on and checked luggage without any restrictions.
You don’t need to remove cables, wires, or extension cords from your bag when going through the security checkpoint, but it is advised to pack them neatly, tangle-free so they don’t block the X-ray machine to properly scan your bag.
Here is what the TSA displays on its website.
I also checked the TSA social media for more answers.
@Joseph asked the TSA if there are any restrictions on traveling with long cables in carry-on bags.
The TSA confirmed that cables are good to go inside carry-on bags.
| Type Of Cables | Carry-on Baggage | Checked Baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Extension Cords | Allowed, but may be subject to security screening. | Generally permitted, but check with specific airlines. |
| USB Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| HDMI Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| Power Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| Ethernet Cables | Usually allowed, but subject to security screening. | Generally permitted, but check with specific airlines. |
| Audio Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| Coaxial Cables | Usually allowed, but subject to security screening. | Generally permitted, but check with specific airlines. |
| Electrical Wires | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
Can I Carry Cables In My Carry-on Luggage?
Can you take an extension cord in a carry-on? Yes.
All types of cables are allowed in carry-on baggage without any issues.
When I travel, I usually place cables inside my backpack, especially my laptop and phone cables, so I can reach them whenever I need to.
For those I know that I will not need them til I get to my destination, I make sure to pack them neatly and place them in either my suitcase or at the base of my backpack.
Long cables, like electrical wires or device cables such as TV cables, are preferable to keep in checked baggage, to save some space.
However, when traveling carry-on only, you can place them inside your carry-on bag.
Can I Carry Cables In Checked Luggage?
Laptop power cords, phone chargers, extension cords, and plug adapters are allowed in checked bags.
@Wex was unsure if he could take his Xbox, cables, and controller in checked baggage, and the TSA answered that gaming console cables and controllers are allowed in checked baggage without any restrictions.
Even though chargers are allowed in checked bags, it is best to pack essential cable in your carry-on bag.
So you can make sure you have power during layovers or if your checked bag get delayed.
Can You Take An HDMI Cable On a Plane?
Yes, HDMI cables and other TV cables are allowed on planes and with most airlines in both carry-on and checked baggage.
It is preferable to organize your cables and extension cords neatly so airport security doesn’t get confused or decide to open your bag during the screening process.
Packing your cables neatly will also help them last longer.
Can I Bring a Power Strip On a Plane?
Power strips are allowed on planes, and you can pack them in both carry-on and checked bags.
If you plan to work on your computer or charge your phone and iPad at the same time, long-cord power strips are very helpful items to have during a trip.
You can even help out a fellow traveler.
How To Protect Your Cables While Traveling?
Before placing your cables inside your organizer, it’s important to know how to pack and protect them.
If you also struggle with broken cables like I do, you can follow the video below for TV and long cables.
If you have small charger cables, you can either wrap them with tape or use paracord to cover the entire wire.
You can also use small cable protectors. Simply slip the protector onto the end of the wire to prevent it from breaking.
Some other protectors have open sides that stretch easily and can cover the entire wire.
How Do I Organize My Travel Cables?
Taking many small cables on a trip requires organization and neat packing, so a travel tech accessory organizer can be a lifesaver.
You can easily fit all your cables inside it and place it in your backpack or carry-on bag.
Voila!!
If you are traveling with a bunch of cables, adapters, or chargers, the BAGSMART Accessories Organizer bag is very beneficial.
It works wonderfully, keeps everything easy to find, and becomes a best friend thanks to its wide space and multiple compartments.
If you want something large enough for cords but not bulky, the Bevegekos Cable Organizer is a great option.
It’s nice to have all your cords in one place while traveling and even at home.
Final Thoughts: Can You Take Cables On a Plane?
You can bring cables (USB, charging cords, adapters) in carry-on and checked baggage without any issues.
If you are traveling with devices and cables, make sure to separate the cables from the devices before placing them inside your bag.
Remember that your carry-on bag will be stored in the overhead bin, so keep anything you’ll need during the flight in your personal item.
Additionally, some airlines may gate-check your carry-on if overhead space is limited or if your bag exceeds size limits, so always place valuable items and electronics in your personal item or backpack.
I hope this helps.
Safe and happy travels.
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