Hoverboards have become a fun and convenient way to travel around, and many people want to take them to their holiday destinations. But with air travel, there are always questions about what is allowed and not allowed on a plane. So the question arises, can you take a hoverboard on a plane? In this blog post, we will explore the regulations and restrictions surrounding hoverboards on airplanes and give you the complete run-down.
Check out 6 Best Hoverboard For Grass And Gravel.
When traveling, it’s essential to know what items you can bring with you on a plane. If you are planning to bring your hoverboard, you must know that each airline has its policies regarding this. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn’t prohibit hoverboards from airplanes. However, individual airlines may have their rules due to concerns about battery fires that have happened in the past. Before you plan to bring your hoverboard on a plane, make sure you check with your airline about their regulations on hoverboards.
If the airline permits your hoverboard, there are still a few things to bear in mind. You must ensure that your hoverboard is packed properly before you check it in. The lithium-ion batteries that power most hoverboards are hazardous, and there’s a possibility that they could catch fire during transportation.
Therefore, it’s crucial to take the necessary precautions to ensure they don’t damage the hoverboard or other passengers’ baggage. Keep the batteries separate from the board and pack them in carry-on luggage to prevent damage.
The size and weight of your hoverboard are also important. Most airlines have strict size and weight limits for checked and carry-on items, including hoverboards. Avoid any hoverboards that are too large or heavy to be checked-in or carried on the plane. You also need to consider the potential harm that a hoverboard can cause during a flight. If it is too heavy or big, it may cause injury if it falls from an overhead bin or slides around.
Finally, you also need to think about how you’ll use your hoverboard once you reach your destination. Some countries or states have regulations restricting the use of hoverboards in public spaces or roads. You might also need to get insurance for your hoverboard, so make sure you check the regulations in the places you plan to visit.
What’s the issue?|Why You Can’t Take A Hoverboard On A Plane?
Hoverboards initially became a trend in 2015 and quickly became a must-have item for children and adults alike. With reputable brands like Swagtron and Segway, high-quality hoverboards with durable and safe components were manufactured, but with the rise of new companies, low-quality products with below-par batteries also came about. As a result, the risk of fires increased significantly.
To prevent explosions, it is best to buy a UL2272-certified hoverboard. To safely charge your hoverboard, avoiding the use of cheap third-party chargers is best. You can also read our article on How To Ride On Hoverboard Without Falling.
- Lithium-ion Battery Packs
Hoverboards and many other electronic devices rely on embedded lithium batteries for power. Although the majority of these batteries come with UL certifications and are designed with safety in mind, cheaper boards from less-reputable manufacturers may come with poorly designed battery packs that pose a risk.
In some cases, such battery packs have been known to cause fires. Despite the fact that most hoverboards on the market are safe, authorities have banned their use by air travel to eliminate risks. Companies such as Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines are among those who have forbidden hoverboards and related gadgets in checked baggage as well.
- TSA Regulations
Hoverboards are allowed by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) to pass through security checkpoints as baggage, even those with lithium batteries. However, airlines and their employees are responsible for enforcing their own rules. It’s important to note that just because a hoverboard passes security, doesn’t mean it is authorized for use on the plane.
- Alternatives
If the airline refuses to let you bring your hoverboard, don’t worry, we have you covered. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your personal scooter while on vacation.
- Lithium-free Hoverboards
Hoverboards use a variety of battery technologies and not all models incorporate lithium-ion battery packs. Some top-rated boards have newer technology that excludes lithium and may be approved for air travel. However, airline employees are not always familiar with this newer technology, and the final decision to allow a lithium-free hoverboard on board is often left up to the crew. Calling ahead is recommended to avoid issues at the airport.
- Mailing Hoverboards
To ensure your hoverboard arrives at your vacation destination punctually, a viable option is mailing it. While the United States Postal Service restricts the shipment of hoverboards equipped with lithium-ion batteries, courier companies like UPS and FedEx do not. Shipping a hoverboard within the 48 contiguous states is usually a simple process that could become expensive due to the product’s weight and size.
However, shipping a hoverboard internationally can be more complicated. You may need to directly communicate with a smaller freight company to ship such a large item overseas.
Conclusion
In summary, can you take a hoverboard on a plane? The answer is yes, but it’s essential to check with your airline about their regulations and restrictions before traveling. If permitted, make sure you pack your hoverboard in the appropriate manner, keeping the hazardous lithium-ion batteries in carry-on luggage and avoiding any hoverboards that exceed size and weight limits.
Additionally, make sure you’re aware of the rules surrounding hoverboard use in your destination country or state. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be able to travel with your hoverboard in confidence.
FAQ’s
Q: Can I ship a hoverboard via USPS?
A: Some shipping companies, such as FedEx, do permit the shipment of hoverboards. However, the United States Post Office currently prohibits the mailing of these items.
Q: Do you need insurance for a hoverboard?
A: Although hoverboards are a popular mode of transport, they do not conform to current road standards for autos. Consequently, they do not necessitate insurance for riding.
Q: What electronics can you not bring on a plane?
A: It’s important to note that carrying damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices aboard an aircraft (whether in the carry-on or checked baggage) is strictly prohibited as they are likely to spark or create a dangerous evolution of heat unless they have been made safe or the battery has been removed.
Q: What happens if you have a lithium battery in checked luggage?
A: The FAA has recently warned about the potential hazard of lithium batteries to aircraft due to their tendency to ignite and fuel fires within cargo and baggage compartments. In response, there is a new push to ban them from being brought on board flights altogether.