Over 48,500 batteries, power banks, cordless hair straighteners (curling irons) and e-cigarettes/vapes have been removed from checked bags this year in New Zealand.

It’s a timely reminder that a safe flight starts with packing your bags correctly.

Many travellers are unclear about the rules, Marlborough Airport Safety and Operations Manager Steve Holtum says.

“With vapes readily available and wireless devices more common, people don’t even think of it as carrying dangerous goods,” he said. “Airlines require passengers to bring items such as power banks into the cabin, so trained crews can manage any issues.”

There are limits to what can be taken on board. This can include the number of devices, sizes of the batteries and even rules for certain destinations. It’s important to check the airline rules for your specific flight, Mr Holtum said.

“Most of the batteries removed from checked bags are power banks, spare batteries and other lithium-powered devices. As a general rule, if you can’t plug it in, put it in your carry-on,” he said.

In 2025, AvSec, the security arm of Civil Aviation Authority, removed more than 250,000 batteries from luggage across New Zealand airports – simply because they weren’t packed safely or correctly.

Not sure what’s allowed in your carry-on bag or checked luggage? Contact your airline for their rules or
visit the Civil Aviation Authority website for tips on packing smart