If you’ve ever packed for a winter trip, you’ve probably asked yourself: Can you take electric hand warmers on a plane? The short answer is yes—but the details depend on the type of warmer, the battery size, and the airline you fly with.
Both the US (TSA/FAA) and the UK (CAA) allow hand warmers, but rechargeable models come with strict battery rules. In this guide, we’ll break down every type—disposable, rechargeable, gel, and even old-school fuel-based—so you can travel without worrying about losing them at security.
Let’s dive in!
Quick Answer: Tsa Vs Uk Caa At A Glance
- Disposable warmers (HotHands, Grabber) → Allowed in both carry-on & checked; no quantity limits.
- Rechargeable lithium hand warmers → Carry-on only. Allowed if ≤100 Wh. 101–160 Wh needs airline approval. >160 Wh forbidden.
- Gel “click” packs (sodium-acetate) → Allowed, but count as liquids if unfrozen.
- Fuel-based (butane/Zippo catalytic) → Banned in both carry-on and checked bags.
TSA Vs UK CAA Comparison Table
| Hand Warmer Type | TSA/FAA (US) | UK CAA | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disposable (air-activated) | Allowed in carry-on & checked | Allowed | No quantity limits |
| Rechargeable lithium-ion | Carry-on only (≤100 Wh free; 101–160 Wh with approval) | Same as the US | Terminals must be protected |
| Gel “click” packs | Allowed; count as liquid if unfrozen | Allowed | Follow the 100 ml liquid rule if liquid |
| Fuel/butane | Forbidden | Forbidden | No exceptions |
Can You Take Electric Hand Warmers on a Plane? (By Type)
Each type of warmer has its own rules.
| Type | Examples | US Rules | UK Rules | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Disposable (air-activated) | HotHands, Grabber | Carry-on & checked allowed | Same | Keep sealed to avoid delays |
| Rechargeable lithium-ion | Ocoopa, Zippo Rechargeable | Carry-on only; ≤100 Wh allowed | Same | Treat it like a power bank |
| Gel packs (sodium-acetate) | “Click to activate” pads | Allowed, but liquid if unfrozen | Same | Pack in a liquid bag |
| Fuel/catalytic | Zippo butane, lighter fluid | Forbidden | Forbidden | Don’t pack at all |
Understanding Battery Limits (mAh → Wh)
Rechargeable hand warmers are treated like power banks. To see if yours is safe to fly with, use this simple formula:
Wh = (mAh × V) ÷ 1000
Examples:
- 5,000 mAh @ 5 V = 25 Wh → Allowed
- 10,000 mAh @ 5 V = 50 Wh → Allowed
- 20,000 mAh @ 5 V = 100 Wh → Allowed (upper safe limit)
- 30,000 mAh @ 5 V = 150 Wh → Allowed only with airline approval
Rule of thumb: If your warmer is under 20,000 mAh (100 Wh), you’re safe to fly with it in carry-on. Larger models may need airline approval.
US Airlines Policy Snapshot
In the United States, the FAA sets the baseline rules:
- Spare lithium batteries ≤100 Wh → Carry-on only
- 101–160 Wh → Allowed in carry-on, but limited to two and only with airline approval
- 160 Wh → Not permitted
- Checked bags → Spares never allowed
How the big three airlines phrase it:
Delta Air Lines
- Carry-on only.
- ≤100 Wh: no approval needed.
- 101–160 Wh: maximum of two with airline approval.
- Must be protected against short circuits.
American Airlines
- Same as FAA: spares in carry-on only.
- ≤100 Wh: unlimited.
- 101–160 Wh: up to two with approval.
- Devices should be switched off and protected from accidental activation.
United Airlines
- Matches FAA.
- Notes explicitly that rechargeable hand warmers are “portable electronic devices.”
- Carry-on only.
- ≤100 Wh: no limit.
- 101–160 Wh: up to two with airline approval.
Best practice: Even though the rules are nearly identical, always check your carrier’s “Dangerous Goods” or “Battery Restrictions” page before flying.
Can You Use Or Charge Hand Warmers During Flight?
A rechargeable hand warmer is basically a small heater with a lithium battery. Airlines treat it like a power bank.
In the US (TSA/FAA):
- No specific mention of hand warmers, but portable electronic device rules apply.
- You can carry them, but whether you can use them is up to the crew.
- Charging from the seat outlet is usually allowed but may be restricted if overheating occurs.
In the UK/EU:
- Rules mirror the US, but some carriers add restrictions.
- Ryanair and EasyJet forbid using or charging power banks in-flight.
- British Airways and Virgin Atlantic allow them in the cabin but require devices to remain switched off unless the crew says otherwise.
Best practice: Keep your warmer switched off and stowed during the flight. Use it once you land, either in the terminal or on your onward journey. British Airways to relax rules on electronic devices.
How To Pack (Without Annoying Security)
A little prep saves time at security:
Rechargeable electric warmers
- Carry-on only.
- Cover terminals with tape or use a case to avoid short circuits.
- Store in a resealable pouch for quick inspection.
Disposable air-activated warmers
- Keep sealed in original packaging.
- Group in a single bag to avoid clutter.
- No need to declare; they aren’t liquids or batteries.
Gel “click” packs (sodium-acetate)
- Solid → pack anywhere.
- Liquid/unfrozen → treat as liquid (100 ml rule).
- Checked luggage is usually fine.
General tips
- Keep them near the top of your carry-on.
- Group by type in separate pouches.
- Label larger batteries with a Wh rating.
- Never put spares in checked baggage.
Smarter Alternatives Once You Land
Hand warmers work for short bursts, but they’re not meant for hours of steady heat. Once you’ve landed and are driving or camping, a larger heating option is better.
12-Volt Electric Blankets (for cars & RVs)
- Ideal for road trips, RV camping, or overnight stops.
- Plug into your vehicle’s 12 V socket.
- Provide continuous low-wattage heat without draining the battery too fast.
- Cover your whole body and can run for hours.
See our roundup of the best 12-volt electric blankets.
Understanding Heated Gear Basics
Curious how heated blankets differ from regular throws? Start with our guide: what is an electric blanket?
Comfort Travel Kit Add-Ons
- Lip balm & moisturizer for dry cabin or mountain air.
- Earplugs or noise-canceling buds for better rest.
- The best travel electric toothbrush to stay fresh on long journeys.
Pro tip: Use hand warmers as your “on-the-go boost” and a 12 V blanket as your “long-term comfort system.” That way, you stay warm from gate to cabin without overpacking.
Safe travels!
FAQs
Can I bring unlimited disposable hand warmers?
Yes. FAA and CAA place no quantity limits on disposable warmers.
Are Zippo fuel-based hand warmers allowed?
No. Fuel and butane devices are banned in both the US and UK.
Can I check my rechargeable hand warmer?
No. Spares must be in carry-on. If built into a device, carry it in hand luggage anyway.
Do I need to remove hand warmers at TSA security?
Not required, but removing sealed packets can speed up screening.
Are gel “click” packs OK?
Yes, but if unfrozen, they count as liquids and must follow the 100 ml rule.
