Walkie-talkies or two-way radios are useful communication devices to take when camping or traveling to places that lack cellphone reception, but can you bring walkie-talkies on planes? And what about their batteries?
Here is the short answer: You can bring walkie-talkies on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags. But, due to the airline lithium battery policies and security regulations, you should generally pack them in your carry-on luggage rather than your checked bag.
In this post I will cover everything you need to know about the rules, regulations, and best practices for bringing walkie-talkies and radios on board the airplanes.
Let’s dive right in.
TL;DR:
- You can bring walkie-talkies and two-way radios on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags.
- It’s best to pack them in your carry-on, especially if they use lithium batteries.
- The TSA may ask you to remove them from your bag during the security screening, just like other electronics.
- Place any spare lithium batteries in your carry-on, not checked luggage.
- You can’t use walkie-talkies during on International flights, also some countries may have stricter rules.
Can You Take Walkie-Talkies Through The TSA Security Checkpoint?
The TSA didn’t specifically mention the word walkie-talkies on its website, but they have rules for several similar devices like radios, which are permitted through the security checkpoint and in carry-on baggage without any restrictions.
Here is a screenshot from the TSA website.
Even though it is not mentioned in the screenshot, but the TSA stated that you need to take out any electronics larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them in a separate bin.
So ensure that you pack your walkie-talkies close to the top of the bag to easily access them and speed up your screening process.
I checked the TSA social media to find more answers from TSA customer service.
Moe wanted to know if rechargeable speakers and two-way radios like walkie-talkies are allowed on planes.
They replied that wireless speakers and two-way radios are allowed in carry-on bags.
Champ the Boxer wanted to bring these Midland emergency two-way radio walkie-talkies in carry-on baggage.
The TSA gave him the green light, but he needed to remove them from his carry-on bag and place them in a separate bin for X-ray screening.
Even walkie-talkie toys like the ones Paul wanted to bring are good to go in carry-on baggage.
Kyle wanted to bring a CB radio for an 18-wheeler, which is powered by 12V.
TSA customer service replied that CB radios are permitted in carry-on bags.
If you put this type of CB radio or a set of walkie-talkies in a separate bag, ensure that the bag is within your airline’s size limits and fits either in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.
Please note that TSA officers also have full discretion to allow or ban any items in carry-on baggage, so if they find an item to be a potential threat, they won’t allow it on board the airplane.
Important
Can You Pack Walkie-Talkies In Checked Baggage?
If you are traveling with a set of walkie-talkies, then it makes sense that you may want to place them in your checked bag.
Even though, if possible, do not place any of these items in checked baggage.
Walkie-talkies that have lithium batteries are better transported in carry-on bags to avoid any accidents.
In addition, checked baggage can get damaged or even go missing, so do not place any expensive items in it.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are going on an adventure or working on a job that requires the use of walkie-talkies, you can bring them in both carry-on and checked baggage.
Just keep in mind that lower-end FRS/GMRS walkie-talkies might use AA or AAA batteries, but most two-way radios use lithium batteries, which carry some risk when transported in checked baggage.
Also, you can’t use your walkie-talkies on a plane, so keep them inside your bag at all times.
I hope this helps.
Happy travels.
FAQs About Bringing Walkie-Talkies On A Plane
Do You Need To Remove Walkie-Talkies at Airport Security?
Yes, since walkie-talkies count as electronic devices, the TSA officers may ask you to remove them from your carry-on bag and place them in a separate bin for screening.
Can Lithium Batteries for Walkie-Talkies Go in Checked Luggage?
Loose lithium batteries should not go in checked baggage. It is safer to pack spare batteries in your carry-on bag to reduce fire risk.
Can You Use Walkie-Talkies During a Flight?
Airlines do not allow passengers to use walkie-talkies during flights because radio signals may interfere with aircraft communication systems.
Do Walkie-Talkies Trigger Airport Metal Detectors?
They can sometimes trigger metal detectors because of the metal parts and batteries inside them. That is completely normal and airport security deals with electronics like this every day.
Can You Bring Ham Radios or CB Radios on a Plane?
You can usually bring ham radios and CB radios on planes in both carry-on and checked bags. Larger radios may need extra screening at security checkpoints.
Can You Pack Walkie-Talkies Without Batteries Installed?
You can travel with walkie-talkies without batteries installed, and some travelers prefer doing this to avoid accidental power-on during the flight.
Can You Bring Walkie-Talkies on International Flights?
You can bring walkie-talkies on most international flights in both carry-on and checked bags. Just keep in mind that some countries have stricter radio equipment rules, it is bets if you contact your airline before hand.
Can You Bring Walkie-Talkies on Flights to or Through Dubai?
Dubai has strict rules against carrying walkie-talkies and pagers on some flights through the UAE. Airport authorities may confiscate them, so check your airline rules before packing them.
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