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The TSA has rolled out several new rules in recent months, including a crackdown on packing certain items in checked luggage. Recently, they issued a warning to air travelers about their toothbrushes and other “items that buzz”.
Airport staff have long been aware that devices powered by lithium batteries, including phones, laptops, and grooming tools, pose a risk if not handled correctly. There have been occasional mishaps: overheating, accidental activation, or “buzzing” in luggage that draws attention. As more travelers carry battery-powered devices, safety concerns are rising.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has issued a formal reminder on toothbrushes: if you’re traveling with an electric toothbrush (or any item with an installed lithium battery), pack it in your carry-on instead of checked baggage. The same applies to spare or uninstalled batteries, which should also be in your carry-on and properly protected.
Safety experts note that lithium batteries, while widely used, can pose fire risks: even a small spark or friction can trigger overheating. The idea is to ensure these items are accessible in the cabin, where the crew can respond quickly to battery malfunctions. Officials have been pushing for clearer rules around these risks, especially with items that might suddenly power on.
Lithium batteries can catch on fire in a process called thermal runaway. Fires in the cargo hold section of the plane (where checked baggage goes) are harder to detect and extinguish than in the passenger area. This means they can also spread more quickly.
The thermal runaway that may cause a lithium battery to catch on fire can be ignited by several instances, including overheating, short-circuiting, overcharging, manufacturing defects, or contact with water.
Unfortunately, many travelers hear about this rule change in the TSA line, after they’ve already checked their luggage, hence the reminder from TSA. Some people have reported being stopped at security and asked to move items to their carry-on, or have their devices inspected.
Many electric toothbrushes use lithium batteries to power them because they are lightweight, charge quickly, and allow for extended use in between charges. The nature of their design makes them useful for everyday use as well as travel.
Understanding battery terminology matters. An “installed” battery is the one built into the device. So if your toothbrush already has its power source inside, that battery is considered installed. A “spare” battery is one not currently in use. Both types are now subject to the carry-on guideline.
The cabin of an airplane is more accessible to crew and safety equipment. It’s easier for emergency response to take place efficiently in the case of an accident if it’s in the overhead bin instead of under the plane. In contrast, checked baggage is stored in parts of the plane where flight attendants can’t reach during the flight, making response to emergencies riskier.
It’s not only electric toothbrushes that are getting the crackdown. Other battery-powered personal care items, devices that “buzz,” and electronics with lithium batteries are subject to similar packing rules. Spare batteries, chargers, and power banks are also included, which means travelers need to double-check what’s in their luggage.
To avoid issues at TSA checkpoints, you should pack devices with installed lithium batteries in your carry-on, keep spare batteries protected (original packaging or a plastic case helps), and make sure everything is powered off to avoid accidental activation. Also, check updated TSA or FAA guides before travel, as rules are subject to change. Travelers who follow these steps tend to move through security more smoothly.
Other notable rules from the TSA amidst all these changes include the rule for liquids and aerosols. Travelers are permitted to bring one quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, or creams in their carry-on luggage, but these items must be in 3.4-ounce containers or smaller.
Some items are exempt from the liquid rule and do not need to be included in the quart-sized plastic bag. These include prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, ice and gel packs, breast milk and formula, and baby food.
The TSA also recently rolled out new rules around the REAL ID. As of May 7, 2025, travelers on domestic flights must have a REAL ID to travel as an additional federal security line of defense.
One of the TSA updates that has had travelers particularly excited is that travelers no longer need to take off their shoes at the TSA checkpoints at most airports. However, some airports are slow to integrate the new policy, so this may vary by location.
As technology continues to develop, there will likely be several more changes to the security checkpoints at airports all over the country. Innovations like full body scanners will streamline the process and help make the security lines go faster while still ensuring travelers’ safety.
Facial recognition is another technology innovation that will revolutionize travel. Some systems and airports are already integrating this into security with programs like Clear.
The new toothbrush rule may seem trivial, but it is actually an important safety measure that allows authorities to protect you and other travelers quickly and efficiently.
Simply pack the electronic toothbrushes in your carry-on, or leave the electronic toothbrush at home and bring a standard one for travel, so you don’t have to worry about the hassle.
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