Loose lithium batteries banned from checked luggage

An announcement by the Department of Transportation last week has sparked concern among air travelers who pack extra batteries for their cameras or other electronic devices. As of last week, fliers may no longer check luggage containing loose lithium batteries.

Passengers can still check baggage with batteries if they are installed in electronic devices. And loose batteries can be taken aboard in carry-on luggage if they are packed in plastic bags, but the limit is two batteries per passenger. The DOT cited concerns about fires caused by the batteries as the reason for the restriction. Info: safetravel.dot.gov