Stupid Question

[Mark_J]

Is there any danger by putting lithium batteries in your airline luggage? (the luggage they put in the baggage compartment where it's not totally pressurized). Thanks.

- Mark

 

[kitelights]

Not a stupid question. It's OK in small quantities (consumer travel). I've read that there could be a potential problem with large quantities.

 

[pjandyho]

I don't think you should worry about that. Just don't bring large quantities along. Why don't you call up any battery manufacturer who does lithium?

 

[Harrkev]

And don't throw them in "loose" so that they can rattle around. They might short out. If they are in some sort of box and/or packaging, then they should be OK.

 

[Mark_J]

Thanks for the replies everyone. They're packed and ready to go!

 

[gwbaltzell]

from Energizer

"The transportation of lithium batteries in the types and sizes manufactured or sold by Eveready Battery Company is not regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation or the major international regulatory bodies. However, to maintain this unregulated status, the batteries must be packaged in a manner as to prevent short circuits and be packed in strong outside packaging."

 

[PEU]

I dont know lithiums but I travelled from USA to Argentina (United Airlines) a year ago with 150 AAnimh and in every checkpoint it raised no alarms after being x-rayed and visual checked.

cheers

 

[PeLu]

It also depends a lot on the airport. And the country you are departing. In India they do not allow loose cells (and coconuts, BTW) and will take them away. Many of these rules are not based on real technical issues. So just stay within to avoid trouble. I've been asked many questions for bringing batteries and chargers with me. If you have them in your main luggage, photograph your devices at home and print out any of these information sheets. It usually impresses the guys and gals in many countries.

If you are just concerned about your own safety, just avoid shorting them, as usually. Baggage compartment has the same pressure as the cabin.