We all travel with many gadgets. Our mobile phones, tablets, laptops and other mobile devices contain batteries, primarily a lithium battery. If not carried properly, lithium batteries can cause a fire in an air craft. Remember the exploding lithium batteries used in the new Dreamliner and the controversy it created for Boeing and travelers alike? Limitations for carrying a lithium battery on an air plane depend on its configuration, lithium content and its Watt-hour (Wh) rating.
Small lithium batteries in cell phones, cameras, watches, portable music players, and laptop computers contain less than two grams of lithium and have less than 100 Wh life time. They are usually allowed in carry-on luggage. They can also be carried in checked-in luggage but many recommends not to do so. If you are carrying an extra lithium battery for some reason, make sure not to carry more than 20 small lithium batteries and large numbers may not be allowed in checked baggage. Medium lithium batteries with 100 – 160 Wh contained in audiovisuals and some computers are also allowed to take in carry-on luggage and may not be suitable for checked luggage. Large lithium batteries used in industry are strictly prohibited in any baggage in commercial air planes.