{
  "id": 17429413,
  "title": "Traveling with electronics? These 5 items could raise TSA red flags",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/31/traveling-with-electronics-these-5-items-could-raise-tsa-red-flags",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-31T15:45:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Engadget",
    "slug": "engadget",
    "url": "https://www.engadget.com/2301241/tsa-electronics-red-flags/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Traveling with electronics can sometimes lead to unexpected issues at TSA security checkpoints. Five common power banks and devices can raise red flags during screening. Firstly, portable power banks must be carried on in your carry-on luggage, not checked baggage, due to the lithium batteries they contain. Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and handheld gaming systems also need to travel with you. It's recommended to remove laptops and other electronics from your bag during the security scan to avoid raising any suspicions. Items with lithium batteries, whether built-in or removable, should be taken into account. Most portable power banks have a capacity below the 100 watt-hour limit, making them acceptable for travel. However, larger power banks, like the 25K Anker Power Bank with 90Wh, are also allowed. Always check the watt-hour (Wh) rating or calculate it using the formula (mAh x voltage) / 1,000 to ensure compliance.\n\nLithium batteries can overheat and potentially cause fires, so keeping them with you is crucial. For professional AV equipment with lithium-ion batteries exceeding 100 watt-hours, special airline approval is required. Only two per person are permitted, and they must be carried on. Non-rechargeable lithium metal batteries, like AA batteries for toys, are accepted up to 2 grams of lithium content per battery, provided they are in their original packaging.\n\nElectronic cigarettes and vapes must be packed in carry-on luggage and cannot be checked. While some gadgets like laser pointers are generally allowed, certain airlines like Air Canada prohibit them altogether. Smart luggage with integrated chargers, GPS trackers, or remote Bluetooth locks should have batteries removed if checked to avoid fire hazards.\n\nAirTags and CR2032 batteries, used in Apple AirTags, are permitted in luggage as they contain less than 0.1 grams of lithium and 0.7 Wh. However, airlines may have stricter rules, so it's essential to check before heading to the airport. Hoverboards and motorized rideable suitcases are prohibited on most airlines due to safety and fire concerns. Even an electric toothbrush, though allowed, should be powered down completely before going through security to prevent accidental activation and potential red flags.",
  "summary": "Travel is stressful enough. Here's what you should know about TSA rules on traveling with tech.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}