Can Laptop Chargers Go in Checked Luggage? What Travelers Should Know
Traveling with electronics comes with its own set of rules, and knowing where to pack your laptop charger can save you time, stress, and even airport delays. Whether you’re heading on a short business trip or a long vacation, it’s essential to understand airline regulations regarding where and how you should pack your laptop power adapter.
TSA and Airline Guidelines: What’s Allowed?
Most international and domestic airline authorities, including the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), allow laptop chargers in both carry-on and checked luggage. Chargers themselves do not contain batteries or pose significant risks, so they’re not restricted items. However, some airlines may have guidelines that favor carrying chargers in your cabin bag, especially if they’re part of your everyday tech essentials.
Packing your charger in your carry-on also ensures that it’s immediately accessible if your device runs low while waiting at the gate or during a layover. Keeping it in your checked luggage may result in inconvenience if your bag is delayed or misplaced.
Lithium Batteries and Power Bricks: Know the Difference
While the charger (cable and adapter) is permitted in any bag, confusion often arises when people pack portable laptop battery packs or power banks. These do contain lithium-ion batteries and are restricted from being placed in checked baggage in many countries due to fire risk. If you’re carrying a power bank for your laptop, it should always go in your carry-on.
Laptop chargers, on the other hand, are simply AC adapters and cables with no internal batteries. As such, they don’t fall under hazardous materials regulations, so they won’t be flagged by airport security when placed in checked luggage.
Why You Should Pack Your Charger in a Carry-On
Although permitted in checked bags, laptop chargers are best packed in your carry-on for several reasons:
- Easy access: You may need to use your laptop at the airport or on the plane
- Protection from damage: Chargers can be damaged in rough handling or from pressure in packed luggage
- Avoid loss: Checked bags can go missing, and losing your charger abroad can be costly and inconvenient
- Security inspections: Carry-ons make it easier to retrieve the charger if requested for screening quickly
Some travelers prefer to pack an extra charger in their checked luggage as a backup, but the primary charger should always travel with you if possible.
Packing Tips for Travel
When placing your laptop charger in your carry-on:
- Use a cable organizer or pouch to keep cords neat
- Avoid wrapping cables too tightly, as this can damage the wire
- Keep the charger close to your laptop for easy access at security checkpoints
If you must pack your charger in checked luggage, cushion it between soft items and ensure it’s not under pressure from heavier items.
Conclusion
So, can laptop chargers go in checked luggage? Yes—but they’re much better off in your carry-on. Not only are they safer from damage, but you’ll also have access when you need them most. Always double-check your airline’s policies before flying, and remember to keep lithium-based accessories, like power banks, out of your checked bag entirely.
