Is it safe to put laptop charger in luggage?

Laptop Charger Luggage: Checked or Carry-On? Understanding the Safety Rules

Traveling with your laptop is practically a necessity in today’s world, but figuring out where to pack its bulky charger can be a head-scratching moment. Should it go in your carry-on, or is it safe to stash it in your checked luggage? The short answer is generally, yes, it’s safe to pack your laptop charger in your checked luggage. However, like with most travel questions, there’s a crucial caveat to keep in mind: the type of charger you have.

Most laptop chargers are simply power adapters that convert AC power from the wall into the DC power your laptop needs. These chargers, typically consisting of a brick-like transformer and associated cables, are perfectly fine to travel with in your checked baggage. There are no major safety concerns associated with them.

The problem arises when your charger incorporates a lithium battery. This is less common in standard laptop chargers, but you might encounter it in:

• Power banks designed for charging laptops: Some larger power banks are marketed as laptop chargers. These almost always contain lithium-ion batteries.
• Hybrid chargers: Less common, but some chargers might combine a standard power adapter with a small integrated battery for short-term power backup.

Why are lithium batteries a concern?

Lithium batteries, while incredibly useful, can pose a fire risk if damaged, short-circuited, or overheated. This risk is heightened in the potentially rough handling of checked baggage. Pressurization changes in the cargo hold can also impact battery stability. For these reasons, aviation authorities like the FAA and IATA have established strict regulations concerning lithium batteries in air travel.

The Golden Rule: Lithium Batteries Belong in Your Carry-On

To comply with these regulations and ensure safety, any laptop charger (or power bank) containing a lithium battery must be packed in your carry-on baggage. This allows you to:

• Monitor the device: If a battery starts to overheat or show signs of malfunction, you can take immediate action.
• Access it quickly: In the rare event of a fire, cabin crew can quickly extinguish it.

How to Identify a Lithium Battery:

• Check the Charger’s Label: Look for the lithium-ion battery symbol (often a battery image with a “Li-ion” label) or specific warnings related to lithium batteries.
• Read the Product Manual: The manual should clearly state if the charger contains a lithium battery and provide any specific safety instructions for air travel.
• Consider its Function: If it’s a power bank designed to hold a charge and replenish your laptop’s battery, it almost certainly contains a lithium battery.

Beyond Safety: Convenience Considerations

Even if your charger is safe to pack in checked luggage, consider the convenience factor of keeping it in your carry-on. Delays happen. If your flight is delayed and your laptop battery is running low, you’ll be glad you have your charger readily available.

In Conclusion:

While standard laptop chargers without lithium batteries can be safely packed in checked baggage, always prioritize packing any charger containing a lithium battery in your carry-on. This simple precaution helps ensure your safety, the safety of other passengers, and compliance with aviation regulations. Before you pack, double-check your charger’s label and manual to be certain. Happy travels!