Flying with power banks, spare lithium batteries, e-cigarettes (vapes), and other electronic devices can be tricky. Major low-cost and leisure airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and TUI strictly regulate these items due to fire risks from lithium batteries.
The key rule across all three: Spare lithium batteries and power banks are banned from checked (hold) luggage. They must travel in your carry-on (hand) luggage only.


Why These Restrictions?
Lithium-ion batteries can overheat, short-circuit, or catch fire, especially if damaged or in the unpressurized cargo hold. International safety standards (aligned with IATA/ICAO) require them in the cabin where crew can monitor them. Devices over 100Wh (roughly 27,000mAh at 3.7V) face even stricter limits or bans.
Pro tip: Always check the Wh rating on your power bank (printed on the label). If unsure, contact the airline.
Ryanair Electric Item Rules
Ryanair is generous with personal devices but strict on spares:
- Up to 15 personal electronic devices allowed (phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, headphones, power banks, etc.).
- Spare lithium batteries / power banks: Up to 20 per passenger, each ≤ 100Wh.
- Must be individually protected against short circuits: original packaging, tape over terminals, or separate plastic bag/pouch.
- Carry-on only — never in checked luggage.
- Spare batteries/power banks must stay under the seat in front or on your person (not in overhead lockers).
- Do not use them to charge devices during taxi, take-off, or landing.
- Devices/batteries over 100Wh: Generally not permitted in cabin or hold (except approved mobility aids like electric wheelchairs).
- E-cigarettes/vapes: Allowed in cabin only (as part of carry-on), not in hold. No use on board.
Smart bags with non-removable batteries may be refused if the battery can't be removed.


easyJet Electric Item Rules
easyJet follows similar safety-first principles:
- All lithium-ion batteries, spare batteries, and power banks must go in cabin hand luggage only — strictly banned from hold luggage.
- Power banks ≤ 100Wh: Allowed without prior approval.
- 100–160Wh: Requires airline approval in advance.
- Maximum of two spare batteries per passenger in many cases.
- Devices with built-in batteries (phones, laptops, etc.): Carry in hand luggage; if checked, they must be fully switched off and protected from activation/damage.
- E-cigarettes and vapes: Must be in cabin baggage only. Recharging prohibited on board; device must be switched off. Max two spare batteries.
- Up to 15 portable electronic devices per passenger (similar to Ryanair).
If your smart luggage has a battery, remove it and take it in the cabin.

TUI Electric Item Rules
TUI (including TUI Airways/fly) aligns closely with the others:
- Loose/spare lithium batteries, power banks, and external battery packs: Banned from checked luggage — hand luggage only.
- Power banks generally ≤ 100Wh; terminals must be protected (original packaging, taped, or bagged).
- Devices with built-in batteries (e.g., laptops): Can go in checked luggage if fully switched off, protected from damage/activation.
- E-cigarettes/vapes: Pack in hand luggage only; not permitted in hold.
- Hoverboards, segways, and similar lithium-powered personal transport devices: Completely banned in both cabin and hold.
TUI emphasizes preventing short circuits and accidental activation.

Quick Comparison Table
| Item | Ryanair | easyJet | TUI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power banks / Spare batteries | Carry-on only; ≤100Wh; up to 20; protect terminals; under seat | Carry-on only; ≤100Wh (or approval); max ~2 spares | Carry-on only; ≤100Wh; protect terminals |
| Built-in device batteries | Carry-on preferred; protect if checked | Carry-on preferred; off if checked | Off + protected if checked |
| E-cigarettes / Vapes | Cabin only; no use | Cabin only; no recharging | Cabin only; no hold |
| Over 100Wh | Generally banned | Needs approval (100-160Wh) | Generally limited/banned |
| Smart luggage | Battery must be removable | Battery must be removed for hold | Follow lithium rules |
General Tips for All Airlines
- Pack in carry-on: Keep all spare batteries and power banks accessible in your hand luggage.
- Protection is key: Insulate terminals to prevent short circuits.
- Security screening: Remove large electronics (laptops, etc.) from bags for scanning.
- No charging on board: Many airlines (including recent ICAO updates) prohibit recharging power banks or using them during critical flight phases.
- Check before you fly: Rules can update — visit the airline’s official website or app for your specific flight.
- Hoverboards & e-scooters: Almost always banned due to high-capacity batteries.

Final Advice
To avoid delays, boarding denials, or having items confiscated at the gate, always carry lithium-powered items in your hand luggage. Double-check capacity ratings and protection methods. If traveling with high-capacity gear (e.g., professional cameras or medical devices), contact the airline in advance.
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