If you're packing for a trip, especially if it's your first time flying with an electric toothbrush, you may find yourself wondering whether you can take it on a plane. After all, electric toothbrushes have batteries and electronics, which might raise concerns about their safety and whether they fall under airport security restrictions.
The short answer is: "Yes, you can take an electric toothbrush on a plane". Both the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and most international aviation authorities allow electric toothbrushes in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, there are a few important details to keep in mind regarding where to pack it, what kind of battery it uses, and how to handle specific airline and country regulations.
In this article, we'll dive into the specifics of traveling with an electric toothbrush, from battery restrictions to practical packing tips, so you can travel confidently with your toothbrush on your next flight.
Electric Toothbrushes and Airport Security
When it comes to bringing personal electronic items onto a plane, airport security rules tend to revolve around two main concerns: battery safety and security screening processes. Thankfully, electric toothbrushes generally pose no issues in either category.
Carry-on or Checked Luggage: Where Should You Pack Your Electric Toothbrush?
Carry-on Luggage: You can absolutely pack your electric toothbrush in your carry-on bag. In fact, this is the recommended option. Most electric toothbrushes, especially those that use rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, are safer to pack in your carry-on due to the regulations surrounding the transport of lithium batteries. Having it in your carry-on also allows you to easily access it during layovers or if you need to freshen up in-flight.
Checked Luggage: While electric toothbrushes are also permitted in checked baggage, there are specific considerations to keep in mind regarding their batteries. Many airlines have restrictions on packing items with lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage due to the potential fire risk. If you do pack it in checked luggage, it's a good idea to remove the battery if possible or at least ensure the toothbrush is switched off to avoid accidental activation.
Battery Restrictions: Why Lithium Batteries Matter
Batteries are a major concern for aviation safety, particularly lithium-ion batteries, which are found in many modern electronic devices, including electric toothbrushes. These batteries can pose a risk of overheating or catching fire if they are damaged or poorly handled during transport. Because of this, aviation authorities worldwide have imposed rules for carrying lithium batteries on planes.
Here’s what you need to know:
One recommendation is to remove disposable batteries from the toothbrush before packing it. This prevents the toothbrush from accidentally turning on during your flight, which could waste the battery or raise concerns from baggage handlers.
In-flight Use: Can You Use Your Electric Toothbrush on the Plane?
There’s no restriction on using an electric toothbrush during the flight itself, although it’s rare for passengers to brush their teeth while in the air. If you do want to freshen up during a long-haul flight, you are free to use your electric toothbrush in the airplane restroom.
And keep in mind the following:
Noise Levels: Electric toothbrushes can make noise, and using one in the confined space of an airplane restroom might cause disruption or discomfort for other passengers. If you decide to brush mid-flight, it’s best to wait until times when the restroom is less busy, such as before landing or during the quiet hours of an overnight flight.
Water Access: Airplane restrooms have limited water access, and the water pressure might not be as strong as what you're used to. To compensate, consider using a small bottle of water to rinse out your mouth or clean the toothbrush head.
Practical Tips for Traveling with an Electric Toothbrush
Now that you know you can take your electric toothbrush on a plane, let’s go over some practical travel tips to make packing and using your toothbrush easier.
1. Keep It Protected
Many electric toothbrushes come with travel cases, which are a great way to protect the brush and keep it hygienic during travel. If your toothbrush doesn’t have a case, you can wrap the brush head in a small resealable bag or buy a universal travel case that fits most models.
It’s a good idea to remove the brush head from the handle before packing. This not only saves space but prevents any toothpaste residue from getting onto your other belongings.
2. Keep It Charged
Electric toothbrushes are known for having long battery lives, often lasting between 10 to 30 days on a single charge, depending on the model. If you're going on a short trip, you may not even need to bring the charger. However, for longer trips, be sure to pack the charging base or cable in your carry-on. If your toothbrush uses a USB charger, it can easily be plugged into any laptop or power bank.
If you're traveling internationally, double-check whether your charger is compatible with the local voltage or if you'll need a voltage adapter. Some premium electric toothbrush models come with universal chargers that work with both 110-120V (North America) and 220-240V (most other countries).
3. Watch for Power Sources
Many airports now have charging stations, so if your electric toothbrush needs a recharge before a long flight, you can quickly top up its battery while waiting at the gate.
Some travelers carry power banks to recharge their electronics while on the go. Many electric toothbrushes with USB charging cables can be powered by these portable banks, so you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet.
4. Secure it in Your Bag
If your electric toothbrush gets bumped around in your luggage, it could accidentally turn on. To prevent this, switch the toothbrush to "off" or "lock" mode (some models have travel locks), remove the batteries if applicable, or keep it in a hard travel case. This also avoids strange vibrating sounds that might raise suspicion from security personnel.
Airline and Country-Specific Rules
While TSA and international aviation regulations generally allow electric toothbrushes, always check with your airline before traveling, especially if you're flying with a low-cost carrier or on an international route. Some airlines have stricter rules regarding lithium-ion batteries or how they handle electronic devices in checked luggage.
Additionally, if you're flying to a country with different customs or safety regulations, it’s worth checking in advance to avoid any surprises.
Yes, You Can Take an Electric Toothbrush on a Plane
Electric toothbrushes are perfectly safe and allowed on planes, both in carry-on and checked luggage. Whether you're heading on a weekend getaway or a long-haul flight, you can bring your toothbrush to maintain your oral hygiene while traveling. Just keep the battery and charging considerations in mind, and make sure it’s packed securely to avoid accidental activation.
With these simple precautions, you can enjoy the convenience of your electric toothbrush on any trip—whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, short or long distances. Your smile will thank you!
