Lithium batteries

The average passenger now flies with at least 4 lithium battery devices. 

Lithium batteries power everyday items like phones, laptops, and cameras, but you must pack them safely to prevent hazards. 

In 2022, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) saw a 92% increase in reported incidents involving lithium-ion batteries compared to 2020.

Batteries and power banks can short circuit, overheat and catch fire during flight. A lithium-ion battery fire can be very difficult to extinguish.

Always pack spare batteries and power banks in your carry-on baggage. Trained aircrew can manage any issues quickly and safely in the cabin.

Never place spare batteries or power banks in checked luggage. 

You can pack devices with batteries secured in either checked or carry-on baggage, but you must: 

• switch off the device completely 
• not keep it in sleep or hibernation mode
• protect it from damage and being switched on in flight.

Airlines may limit the number of spare batteries and power banks you can carry—check with your airline before flying.

Safety tips when travelling with lithium batteries

These simple steps help keep you and your fellow passengers safe:

• choose reputable suppliers when buying devices and spare batteries
• follow airline and manufacturer rules for carrying and charging lithium batteries
• keep spare batteries in carry-on luggage and protect them from damage
• stop using or charging batteries that show signs of damage, overheating, or swelling
• dispose of batteries safely through approved recycling programs.

To prevent short circuits, protect spare battery terminals by:

• keeping them in original packaging
• covering terminals with tape
• placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or case.

Calculating battery sizes

What you need to know about battery sizes:

• Under 100Wh are common in phones, laptops, and cameras – it is recommended that you pack these devices in your carry-on baggage.
• 100Wh to 160Wh are found in power tools and mobility aids – you require airline approval.
• Over 160Wh are prohibited in passenger baggage (except for mobility aids) – you must transport them separately as dangerous goods cargo.

If your battery or power bank doesn’t have the Watt hour rating (Wh) on its outer case, use this formula to calculate its size:

• Voltage (V) × Amp hours (Ah) = Watt-hours (Wh)

For milliamp hours (mAh), divide the answer by 1000:

• (V × mAh) / 1000 = Wh