Lithium AA/AAA Batteries
Single-use lithium AA/AAA batteries must travel in carry-on only, unlike standard alkaline batteries.
Carry-on
Allowed
Checked
Not allowed
Carry-on details
Allowed. Single-use lithium AA/AAA batteries (a lithium-metal chemistry, not rechargeable lithium-ion) are permitted in carry-on. Consumer AA/AAA-size cells fall well under the gram-based limit for lithium-metal batteries, so no airline approval is needed.
Checked-bag details
Not allowed. Like other spare lithium batteries, these can't go in checked baggage — they must stay in the cabin.
Special instructions
These look identical to standard alkaline AA/AAA batteries, so check the packaging — it will say "lithium" explicitly. Standard alkaline batteries have no such restriction and can go in either bag.
Related rules
FAQ
- How do I know if my AA batteries are lithium or alkaline?
- Check the packaging — lithium batteries are labeled explicitly (e.g., "Ultimate Lithium"). If it just says "alkaline," the carry-on-only rule doesn't apply.
Related items
Source: FAA — PackSafe (Hazardous Materials) · Last verified: 2026-08-02
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.