Cordless Tool Battery
A spare cordless tool battery is a lithium battery and must travel in carry-on only, with watt-hour limits.
Carry-on
Allowed with conditions
Checked
Not allowed
Carry-on details
Allowed with conditions. A spare (uninstalled) cordless tool battery is a lithium battery and follows the same tiered rule as any other: up to 100 Wh is unrestricted, 100–160 Wh needs airline approval, over 160 Wh is banned. Most consumer drill/tool batteries fall under 100 Wh, but larger professional-grade packs can exceed it — check the rating printed on the pack.
Checked-bag details
Not allowed. Like any spare lithium battery, it can't travel in checked baggage, even though the tool it powers can (see the entry for your specific power tool).
Quantity limit
100 wh (per item)
Special instructions
This covers the removable battery pack itself. The power tool body it powers follows a separate rule — power tools must be checked, never carried on, with the battery removed and carried separately.
Related rules
FAQ
- Can I pack a spare drill battery in checked luggage since the drill itself can go there?
- No. The battery is a spare lithium battery and must stay in carry-on regardless of where the tool it powers goes.
Related items
Source: FAA — PackSafe (Hazardous Materials) · Last verified: 2026-08-02
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.