With effect from Jan 1, 2008, the ever more paranoid US government will be enforcing a new rule banning the packing of “loose” lithium batteries in checked luggage, apparently over concerns that such batteries may catch fire. Instead, one must pack new batteries still in the original packaging, or otherwise keep them in a ziplock bag. Travelers will be limited to 2 (!!!) such batteries.

Apparently, batteries in devices do not count. One must wonder at the incredible lack of knowledge that decides that loose batteries can erupt in flames more often than those already installed in electronic devices. Whatever they put in electronics, it’s doubtful that the net resistance is anywhere close to that of air, or even salty water.

Reference

  1. US Transportation Security Administration, Safe Travel with Batteries and Devices