Hover boards, self-balancing scooters, unicycle scooters, etc.

This entry is for recreational vehicles powered by lithium ion batteries. When battery-powered vehicles are used by those with a disability, please see the entry for "Wheelchairs and mobility devices …"

Important: Contact your airline to see if they accept these recreational vehicles as carry-on or checked baggage. Many do not.

Under U.S. and international regulations, these devices may be carried like other portable electronic devices in checked or carry-on baggage under the following conditions:

• The airline must approve it. Airline approval is required for any lithium ion battery exceeding 100 watt hours (Wh).* The airline may choose to not accept the devices at all or may limit them to carry-on baggage.
• A device with a lithium ion battery that exceeds 160 Wh is prohibited as carry-on or checked baggage.
  • Most board-type self-balancing scooters have a Wh rating of about 158.4 Wh (36 volts x 4.4 Amp hours).
  • Most unicycle scooters and Segway-type scooters have a battery that exceeds 160 Wh, and thus are prohibited.
• The device must be protected from accidental activation (the device cannot be accidentally turned on during transit).
• The device's battery is protected from damage and short circuit and the component (e.g., fuse) must be isolated.

An airline may require proof of the battery size (in watt hours) if it is not clearly marked on the outside of the device or on the outside of the package that the device is in. IATA guidance for airline staff (PDF)

Damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices, which are likely to create sparks or generate a dangerous evolution of heat must not be carried aboard an aircraft (e.g. carry-on or checked baggage) unless the damaged or recalled battery has been removed, or otherwise made safe. The airline may offer further public guidance on transporting individual recalled products.

For additional information on recalls, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission, manufacturer, or vendor website.

*Watt hours (Wh) = Volts (v) x Amp hours (Ah). When milliamp hours (mAh) are given, divide by 1000 to get Amp hours (Ah).