Can You Fly With AA Batteries? Dry Cell Battery Rules

Where these numbers come from

Dry cell batteries are the simplest battery question at the airport. The alkaline AA, AAA, C and D cells in a flashlight or TV remote, plus 9-volt and button cells, are allowed in carry-on and checked bags, and the FAA sets no quantity limit for passengers. The same goes for rechargeable nickel metal hydride and nickel cadmium cells in those sizes. The TSA entry is brief: allowed in both bags, protected from damage and sparks.

The only real requirement is protection. The FAA wants battery terminals, usually the ends, protected from short circuit, because loose cells touching coins, keys or each other can heat up. Four easy methods work: leave them in the retail package, cover the ends with non-metallic tape, use a battery case, or drop them in a plastic bag or pouch. A rechargeable cell left in its wall charger does not count. Worked example: a 24-pack of AA cells still in its blister pack needs no extra steps, while a loose handful from a junk drawer should be bagged or taped first.

Do not confuse dry cells with lithium. Lithium batteries, such as a camera battery or a power bank, follow a much tighter set of rules: 100 Wh per battery, spares in the carry-on only, and larger ones up to 160 Wh with airline approval. Lithium AA and AAA cells, sold for some cameras and outdoor devices, fall under the lithium metal rules, which cap each battery at 2 grams of lithium, so read the label if a pack says lithium. Standard alkaline cells have no such cap, and that difference is why a label reading lithium on a pack of AA cells deserves a second look before you pack.

In a checked bag, keep batteries installed devices off. A toy or flashlight with cells inside should have its switch locked or a spacer between the cell and the contact, so it cannot turn on in the hold. Carry spares in the cabin when you can, since a crew can reach them. If the cells power a vape or a charger, see e-cigarettes and vapes, portable chargers and lithium batteries. The Can I bring it? TSA finder can confirm any other battery type.

Sources

• TSA Dry Batteries (AA, AAA, C and D)
• FAA PackSafe: Batteries
• FAA PackSafe chart
• TSA What Can I Bring? complete list

Figures checked on September 30, 2026.

This page is general information, not legal, insurance or travel-agent advice. Fees, rules and limits change, so confirm the figures with the official sources listed above before you book or travel.