Yes, you can generally fly with a DeWalt 20V battery, but specific rules apply as they are lithium-ion batteries.
DeWalt 20V batteries are considered lithium-ion batteries, and regulations for air travel depend on whether they are installed in a device or transported as spares.
According to the provided reference:
- Lithium-ion batteries installed in a personal electronic device can be transported as checked or carry-on baggage. However, tools like drills or saws are typically not considered "personal electronic devices" in the same category as phones or laptops for this rule regarding checked baggage. When traveling with power tools, the batteries are usually removed.
- Lithium ion batteries not installed in a device (spares) must be in carry-on baggage. This is the key rule for standalone DeWalt batteries. They must travel with you in the cabin.
- For spare batteries in the 100 to 160-watt hour (Wh) range, no more than two (2) spares are allowed. Most common DeWalt 20V MAX batteries range from 40Wh (2Ah) to 160Wh (8Ah). Batteries like the 6Ah (120Wh) and 8Ah (160Wh) models fall into this specific limited category according to the reference. Batteries under 100Wh (like 2Ah, 3Ah, 4Ah, 5Ah) are typically allowed in carry-on, often in larger quantities, but the provided reference only specifies the limit for the 100-160Wh range.
Key Rules for Flying with DeWalt 20V Batteries (Based on Reference)
Based on the provided information, here's a summary:
- Location: Spare DeWalt 20V batteries must be in your carry-on baggage. They are generally not permitted in checked baggage when transported as spares.
- Quantity Limit: If your DeWalt 20V battery's watt-hour rating is between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you are limited to carrying a maximum of two (2) such spare batteries.
- Watt-Hour Rating: You need to know your battery's Wh rating. This is calculated by multiplying the voltage (20V) by the amp-hour (Ah) rating (e.g., 20V * 4Ah = 80Wh). Common batteries like 2Ah (40Wh), 3Ah (60Wh), and 4Ah (80Wh) are under 100Wh. Batteries like 6Ah (120Wh) and 8Ah (160Wh) are within the 100-160Wh range specified for the two-spare limit. The reference does not provide a specific numerical limit for batteries under 100Wh.
Practical Steps for Traveling with DeWalt Batteries
To ensure smooth travel with your batteries:
- Calculate Watt-Hours: Check the Ah rating on your battery and calculate the Wh (20V * Ah = Wh).
- Protect Terminals: Cover the battery terminals with electrical tape or place each battery in a separate protective case or plastic bag to prevent short circuits. Short circuits can cause fires.
- Carry-On Only: Always pack your DeWalt batteries in your carry-on bag.
- Respect Limits: If carrying batteries between 100-160Wh, adhere strictly to the two-spare limit specified in the reference.
Understanding these guidelines, derived directly from the provided reference, will help you prepare your DeWalt 20V batteries for air travel safely and in compliance with regulations.
