Can You Take Rechargeable Hand Warmers on a Plane?
Updated October 15, 2026
In general, yes, but they need to travel the right way. Rechargeable hand warmers contain lithium-ion batteries, and air travel rules treat them like other battery-powered personal electronics.
Pack them in your carry-on
Lithium-ion batteries should travel in the cabin, where crew can deal with a problem quickly. Pack rechargeable warmers in your carry-on bag rather than checked luggage. If a gate agent takes your carry-on to check it at the gate, take the warmers out first.
Switch them off
Turn the warmers off and keep them from being switched on by accident, for example by packing them in their pouch or box. Do not use or charge them during the flight unless the crew says it is fine.
Check before you fly
The FAA, the TSA and each airline publish their own rules, and they can change. Battery size limits apply to very large batteries; ordinary hand warmers are far below them, but it is always worth checking your airline's page on lithium batteries before travel, especially for international flights.
Disposable warmers
Air-activated disposable hand warmers contain no battery and are generally allowed too. Keep them sealed until you need them.