How to pack your electronic devices for your flight
Travelling with electronic devices has become second nature – but the lithium batteries powering our everyday devices require careful handling. Understanding a few simple packing rules ensures both safety and a smooth start to your journey.
Many everyday devices — such as mobile phones, tablets, wireless headphones and power banks — contain rechargeable lithium batteries. It’s easy to end up travelling with four or five of them without even noticing.
Lithium batteries are classified as dangerous goods, so there are a few rules for how they must be carried on board. These guidelines help you pack your devices correctly and ensure a smooth airport experience.
Remember to check the battery size of the devices you use. You’ll usually find the battery information on the battery itself, in the device settings or in the user manual.
1. Check that your device is in good condition
Devices with lithium batteries are safe to bring on board when handled and packed correctly. Only travel with devices that are intact and working normally. A damaged battery can overheat and pose a fire risk.
2. Pack your power bank in your carry‑on baggage
Power banks must always be packed in your carry‑on baggage. They are not allowed in checked baggage, and the same applies to all spare batteries. Every day, power banks, batteries, lighters and e‑cigarettes must be removed from bags being checked in. Most of the time, it’s an honest mistake - the items have simply ended up in the wrong bag.
If your carry‑on bag needs to be checked in at the departure gate, always make sure there are no power banks or other items prohibited in checked baggage left inside.
3. Do not use a power bank during the flight
A new aviation safety regulation prohibits the use of power banks on board. You cannot use a power bank to charge your devices during the flight, and you may not connect one to the aircraft’s power outlet. For this reason, please charge any devices you’ll need during the flight beforehand or at the airport.
On our long‑haul flights, you can charge your electronic devices using the in‑seat power outlet, which works with most charging cables without an adapter. Depending on the aircraft type and travel class, USB ports are either USB‑A or USB‑C.
4. Notify cabin crew if you notice a problem
During the flight, it’s best to keep your power bank in the seat pocket or in your bag under the seat in front of you, not in the overhead bin. This way, it stays visible and accessible. If a battery starts to heat up or swell, inform our cabin crew immediately. They are trained to handle such situations.
The same guidance applies to e‑cigarettes, which should be kept close at hand. Using or charging an e‑cigarette is not permitted during the flight.
5. Switch off your devices and protect them
A device with a lithium battery of up to 100 watt‑hours — such as a laptop — can also be carried in checked baggage. However, we recommend packing your electronic devices in your carry‑on baggage whenever possible.
Switch off the device for the duration of the flight and ensure it cannot turn on accidentally. Protect the device or spare battery with a case, soft pouch or clothing. Pressure or impact can damage a battery and cause it to overheat. Also make sure the battery terminals cannot come into contact with metal objects or other batteries, and that no flammable items such as perfume or hairspray are stored next to the battery.
6. Arrange transport for larger batteries in advance (100–160 Wh)
Batteries and power banks with a capacity of 100–160 watt‑hours require prior approval from Finnair. Please contact our customer service well before your journey starts so we can confirm the approval in good time. These larger batteries must be carried in your carry‑on baggage.
Batteries over 160 watt‑hours are not permitted on our flights at all, unless they are part of an electric wheelchair.
7. Check the guidelines and ask if you need help
In addition to lithium batteries, there are specific rules for items such as liquids, sports equipment and battery‑powered mobility devices. You’ll find all guidelines clearly on our website.
If you need assistance, our Sisu chat and customer service team are always happy to help.
And one more tip: when you check in, take a moment to carefully review the guidelines for restricted items before ticking the box.