Let’s talk batteries because this is where people get nervous. Lithium-ion batteries are safe in your carry-on, but they’re a no-go in checked bags. Why? Because a battery fire in the cabin is something the crew can fight. In the cargo hold? It’s a literal bomb. So, your laptop is fine, but those spare power banks? They need to be under 100 watt-hours (check the label).
And your charger? Toss it in the same bag. No special rules, just don’t wrap the cord around your neck and pretend it’s a scarf. (Please don’t. Security already judges us enough.)
The Liquid Wipe & The SSD Panic
Here’s a weird one: some security agents might ask you to turn your laptop on to prove it’s real. Yes, a dead battery can be a red flag. It’s rare, but it happens. So, charge it before you leave, or you’ll be the person frantically pressing the power button while everyone sighs behind you.
Benefits on LATAM Airlines for Qantas Frequent Flyers
Also—and this is ironic—your laptop’s data is usually fine. They can’t (and won’t) search your files unless they have a warrant. But they can take a cotton swab and wipe it down for explosives residue. That’s happened to me twice. (Spoiler: my laptop was clean. It’s not making bombs; it’s just slow.)
