If you’ve flown recently, you’ll know that one of the first questions airlines ask at the check-in counter these days is whether you have lithium batteries or power banks in your checked luggage.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently conducted a passenger survey which found that more and more travellers are flying with lithium battery-powered devices. According to the research, 83% of passengers carry a smartphone when travelling, 60% bring a laptop and 44% travel with a power bank.
To help travellers stay safe, IATA launched a global safety campaign – Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries – outlining seven simple rules for carrying mobile phones, laptops, power banks and other lithium-powered devices safely when flying.
“With so many travellers carrying multiple electronic devices, smart packing has become an important part of modern travel,” says Jamie Owen, marketing manager for Thule South Africa. “While these items are generally safe when handled properly, improper packing or damaged batteries can pose serious risks, especially if they’re in checked luggage rather than in the cabin where they can be monitored.”
Fortunately, travelling with tech doesn’t have to be stressful. The right electronic travel gear protects valuable devices, keeps everything organised and makes it easier to follow airline guidelines, from check-in and security to inflight use. With this in mind, Owen and the Thule team share a few smart packing tips for travellers who regularly fly with electronics.
Organise cables and accessories
Anyone who travels with tech knows the frustration of tangled cables and missing chargers. Compact organisers keep cords, adapters, earphones and power banks neatly stored in one place, making it easy to access them during security checks or while onboard the aircraft.
The Thule Subterra PowerShuttle and Thule Aion Travel Organiser are designed to keep everyday tech essentials neatly organised and easily accessible, reducing clutter and stress when travelling.
Protect laptops and tablets
Laptops and tablets can easily be damaged by knocks, drops or pressure during travel. Protective sleeves or cases with padded construction help shield devices from impact. Look for designs that allow devices to remain protected even while in use, ideal for travellers who work while on the move.
The Thule Gauntlet 5 Protection Sleeve and Thule Gauntlet 5 Attache offer durable, impact-resistant protection designed for travel, with structured protection that allows devices to be safely carried between meetings, airports and destinations.
Choose a tech-friendly carry-on
For travellers who prefer a dedicated tech-friendly carry-on, look for backpacks or cabin bags that feature padded laptop compartments, tablet sleeves and smart internal organisation. This keeps devices protected and easy to reach while ensuring valuable electronics remain in your cabin luggage, where airlines recommend lithium-powered devices should be stored.
The Thule Subterra 2 Convertible Carry-On and Thule Aion Carry-On Spinner are designed for modern travel, featuring padded laptop storage, intuitive organisation and durable construction for frequent flyers who rely on multiple devices.
When choosing travel gear for electronics, it’s also important to select brands that prioritise safety, durability and thoughtful design. “Travellers should look for products that have undergone rigorous safety and quality testing,” says Owen. “At Thule, all products are tested extensively at the Thule Test Centre™ under extreme conditions to ensure they can withstand the demands of travel while keeping valuable gear protected.”
From daily commutes to long-haul adventures, smart packing and reliable gear can make travelling with technology safer, easier and far more organised. By keeping lithium-powered devices accessible in cabin luggage and using well-designed protective storage, travellers can focus less on the logistics of flying with tech and more on enjoying the journey.