Tech & Takeoff: What Electronics Belong in Your Cabin Bag (and What Can Be Checked)
If you’re anything like me, your holiday essentials often include more than a couple of gadgets: my smartphone, camera, tablet, and sometimes my hair straightener. What can be in my cabin luggage and what can be packed in my checked-in luggage is often debated and then researched.
Here’s a simple, traveller-friendly guide to what usually belongs in your cabin bag and what can go in checked luggage, based on general airline and aviation safety rules. It’s a great starting point, but always double-check with your specific airline. A rule to remember - batteries decide everything. So when in doubt: Any electronics with batteries = keep them with you.
What Electronics are you allowed in your carry-on/cabin baggage?
- Mobile phones and tablets
- Laptops
- e-readers (e.g. Kindle)
- Digital cameras and GoPro’s
- Bluetooth Headphones and earbuds
- Smartwatches and fitness trackers
- Electric shavers
- Portable game consoles (e.g. Nintendo Switch)
- Power banks (portable chargers)
- Camera batteries and spare lithium batteries (must be under airline-approved Watt-hours)
- E-cigarettes/vapes BUT check before you go as these are under review currently and also may not be legal in the country you are visiting
What Electronics are allowed in your checked in baggage?
Certain types of batteries: Strong, industrial lithium batteries or items over a capped Wh/mAh are forbidden.
Hoverboards or electric scooters: Generally prohibited by most airlines.
Damaged batteries
If you’re ever unsure about a specific device or battery, always double-check the rules with the airline(s) you’re flying with – policies can vary, and they’re the ones who have the final say at the airport. And because things can get lost, delayed or damaged, make sure you have travel insurance that covers your electronics and any other expensive items. Don’t just save this for “one day” – book your next holiday and start the countdown.
