The UK government has issued a summer travel advisory warning passengers that vapes and power banks must be packed in cabin baggage rather than checked luggage. Released on August 21, the directive aims to prevent onboard fire hazards caused by lithium batteries.
In a public social media statement, officials stated: “If you’re travelling with power banks or vapes this summer, make sure you know where to pack them! Power banks and vapes must be taken onboard with you into the aircraft cabin. They can’t be packed into checked luggage.”
Why Lithium Batteries Face Cabin Restrictions
Power banks and e-cigarettes rely on lithium-ion batteries. If damaged, short-circuited, or exposed to pressure changes in the cargo hold, these batteries can overheat and ignite. Storing them in the cabin ensures that flight crew can respond immediately to any thermal runaway events, aligning with international aviation safety standards.
Guidelines for Safe Air Travel
To prevent delays and confiscation at airport security, passengers should follow these safety steps:
- Pack all power banks, e-cigarettes, and spare lithium batteries in carry-on bags.
- Verify that all devices are completely powered off during the flight.
- Check specific airline limits on battery capacity and rules for carrying e-liquids.
