Are you considering taking your electric toothbrush on your next plane journey but unsure about the rules? You’re not alone in pondering this question, especially when traveling with only hand luggage.
Knowing these regulations is essential for maintaining your dental hygiene routine, no matter the length of your trip.
Well, we’ll be going over:
- Can you carry an electric toothbrush in your hand luggage according to TSA guidelines?
- Are there any special considerations for packing electric toothbrushes in checked luggage?
- What about the batteries in electric toothbrushes – are there any specific rules?
Let us ensure your travel plans remain as refreshing as your morning and evening brushing routine!
The Quick Answer: Can you bring an electric toothbrush on plane trips? TSA rules allow electric toothbrushes on a plane in carry on bags through security no matter what type of battery they contain. They are also permitted to be packed in checked bags, even though they normally contain lithium batteries.
I have taken my electric toothbrush in my hand luggage and checked luggage worldwide without a problem.
Contents
Can you take an electric toothbrush in carry on?
Electric toothbrushes, typically containing rechargeable lithium batteries, are generally allowed through airport security in your carry-on. Lithium batteries can raise concerns due to their small risk of overheating and combustion.
However, this risk is minimal in electric toothbrushes, where the battery is securely encased and non-removable.
Frequently asked on TSA’s Twitter service (#asktsa), the common question is whether these devices are allowed in carry-on.
You are advised to keep your toothbrush charged, as security may request a demonstration of its functionality. Non-rechargeable, battery-operated toothbrushes are also permitted in your cabin bag.
The toothbrush’s charging unit can also be packed in your checked or cabin bag.
There are compelling reasons to pack your electric toothbrush in your carry-on:
- For in-flight oral hygiene during long, overnight flights.
- In case of delays or loss of checked luggage, it will ensure access to your toothbrush.
- To avoid the risk of theft during transit.
While electric toothbrushes are typically clear for travel, other rechargeable battery-powered items might pose issues.
For further information, consider reading about the transport of lithium batteries on planes – Can you take lithium batteries on a plane?
Read: You may want to know if you can take toothpaste in carry on should you wish to clean your teeth mid-flight.
Can you pack an electric toothbrush in checked luggage?
Electric toothbrushes can be safely packed in checked luggage for short-haul flights where in-flight use isn’t necessary.
The main condition is that any removable lithium batteries must be properly inserted in the device. They aren’t allowed to travel separately or as spares in checked bags.
This is the TSA’s response to a passenger asking can you bring an electric toothbrush in checked bags:
Do electric toothbrushes have lithium batteries?
Modern rechargeable electric toothbrushes, including brands like Oral B and Sonicare, commonly feature lithium-ion batteries.
These are usually non-removable and recharge on a docking station rather than being charged separately. Some lower-priced models might use disposable, replaceable batteries.
Regardless of the battery type, these toothbrushes are permitted on planes in carry-on and checked luggage.
Conclusion
Can you bring an electric toothbrush on a plane? Absolutely! The TSA explicitly states that electric toothbrushes are allowed, so you can confidently pack yours without any worries.
The TSA allows electric toothbrushes in carry-on bags regardless of the battery type. If they contain lithium-ion batteries, as long as they are installed in the toothbrush, they can also be packed in checked baggage.
You can check the manufacturer’s website, like Oral B or Sonicare, for specific model information to understand the battery types used.
Other toiletry airport security questions you may have
As well as whether you can take an electric toothbrush in your carry on you may also be interested in these:
Can you take an electric razor on a plane?
Are shaving razors allowed in carry on bags?
Can I bring deodorants on a plane?
Can you take aerosols on a plane?
I have been traveling around the world by air since the early 70s and living overseas too. I worked for British Airways for a number of years and I am also a private pilot. About Me
