EU bans common item from checked-in luggage

If you’re flying to Spain soon, you’ll need to carry this handy device on board

When getting ready for a flight to or from Spain, or indeed within the country, one of the key considerations is what kind of luggage to bring. Most budget airlines only allow a tiny carry-on, but checking in a bag can cost a small fortune.

What you pack in your carry-on versus your checked suitcase can significantly affect your journey. We all know by now, for example, the rules around liquids – containers larger than 100 milliliters can’t be brought on board. And there’s another long list of things you should never put in your checked luggage.

If you’re flying from the UK to Spain, things get even more complicated, since lots of fresh foods including meat, dairy and cream-filled treats are banned.

Now, a new European Union regulation adds another item to the list of restrictions for checked luggage.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency, also known as EASA, has updated its guidelines regarding hazardous materials on flights. One of the most significant changes is the complete ban on placing portable batteries, commonly referred to as power banks, in checked baggage. These devices must now be carried in your hand luggage.

Although it may seem surprising, this rule is based on safety concerns. Power banks can overheat, short-circuit or even catch fire. By requiring passengers to carry them in the cabin, any potential incident can be addressed more quickly and effectively by the crew.

What you need to know about the new power bank rules

To comply with the new safety measures, passengers should follow these guidelines:

Power banks must be placed in carry-on luggage only and never checked in.
In general, they cannot exceed a capacity of 100 watt-hours, although some airlines may permit up to 160 watt-hours.
Each device should be protected individually. This can be done by taping the terminals or placing each power bank in a separate plastic bag.

In addition, passengers are not allowed to charge power banks during the flight or connect them to other devices such as phones or laptops. These precautions are designed to reduce risks and ensure the safety of everyone on board.

This is perhaps the most disruptive rule of all, since many passengers carry these packs specifically to charge up their devices mid-flight. However, it is now strictly prohibited and cabin crew will vigilantly enforce the ban.

Also of interest: Renfe slashes train prices across Spain, but the super sale ends soon

Image: Archive

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