Electric skateboards have become one of the coolest ways to commute and explore cities. Whether you are a student, commuter, or adventure lover, these boards bring speed, convenience, and fun into daily life. But what if you want to travel with your e-board? Can you take an electric skateboard on a plane?
This is one of the most common questions riders ask, especially if they plan to travel internationally or carry their e-skateboard on vacation. The short answer: it depends. Airlines have specific rules about batteries, dimensions, and safety, and not all electric skateboards qualify for air travel.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about flying with your electric skateboard, covering airline policies, battery restrictions, packing tips, and alternative shipping solutions.
Why Are Airlines Strict About Electric Skateboards?
Electric skateboards run on lithium-ion batteries, the same type used in laptops, power banks, and electric bikes. While these batteries are efficient and rechargeable, they also carry a fire risk if damaged or improperly handled.
Airlines regulate lithium-ion batteries because:
- Fire Hazard – Damaged or overheated batteries can catch fire, and fire at high altitudes is extremely dangerous.
- Battery Size – The bigger the battery (measured in watt-hours, or Wh), the higher the risk.
- Safety Regulations – Aviation authorities like the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and IATA (International Air Transport Association) set limits on battery-powered devices.
So, whether or not you can bring your electric skateboard depends largely on the battery size and the airline’s policy.
Battery Restrictions You Need to Know
Lithium-ion battery capacity is measured in watt-hours (Wh). To calculate:
Watt-hours (Wh) = Voltage (V) × Amp-hours (Ah)
For example, if your skateboard battery is 36V and 4.4Ah, the capacity is:
36 × 4.4 = 158 Wh
Now, here are the FAA and IATA rules most airlines follow:
- Batteries under 100 Wh – Usually allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Batteries between 100 Wh and 160 Wh – Allowed, but you need airline approval. Most airlines limit you to 1 or 2 spare batteries.
- Batteries over 160 Wh – Not allowed on passenger planes. You cannot carry them in either cabin or checked luggage.
Most electric skateboards come with batteries ranging from 150 Wh to 600 Wh, meaning many boards are too large to fly with.
Airline Policies for Electric Skateboards
Airlines don’t have a unified global policy on electric skateboards. Some airlines ban them entirely, while others allow boards under certain battery limits.
Here’s a general overview (always check with your specific airline before traveling):
- United Airlines, Delta, American Airlines (USA): Typically do not allow electric skateboards with batteries above 160 Wh. Small models under the limit may be allowed with approval.
- Southwest Airlines: Similar restrictions, batteries under 100 Wh are fine, 100–160 Wh require approval, and above 160 Wh are banned.
- European Airlines (e.g., Lufthansa, Ryanair, EasyJet): Generally stricter; many won’t allow electric skateboards at all.
- Asian Airlines (e.g., Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways): Tend to follow IATA guidelines but may have additional restrictions.
👉 Tip: Always contact the airline in advance. Don’t just assume rules change often, and staff at the airport may not let you board if you haven’t confirmed.
Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage
- Carry-On Luggage: Most airlines require that lithium-ion batteries (within limits) be carried in your cabin bag rather than checked in. This is because crew members can respond to a fire in the cabin faster than in the cargo hold.
- Checked Baggage: Usually not allowed for lithium batteries above 100 Wh.
For electric skateboards:
- If the battery is removable and under 160 Wh, you may be able to take it as carry-on.
- The skateboard deck (without the battery) may be checked in as oversized luggage.
What If Your Electric Skateboard Has a Large Battery?
Most high-performance e-skateboards, like off-road or long-range models, have batteries far beyond 160 Wh. Unfortunately, these cannot fly with you on passenger planes.
Here are some workarounds:
1. Buy a Travel-Friendly Battery
Some electric skateboard brands sell airline-approved travel batteries (under 160 Wh). You can swap out your large battery for a smaller one when flying.
2. Ship Your Skateboard Separately
Instead of carrying it on the plane, you can ship your electric skateboard using ground shipping or courier services like FedEx, DHL, or UPS. This is a common option for international riders, but shipping costs can be high.
3. Rent or Buy at Destination
If your board can’t fly with you, another option is to rent an e-skateboard at your destination or purchase one locally.
Tips for Traveling with an Electric Skateboard
If your skateboard meets airline requirements, here are some best practices:
- Confirm with the Airline Early – Call customer service and get written confirmation about their battery policy.
- Remove the Battery – If possible, detach the battery and pack it separately in your carry-on.
- Use Fireproof Bags – Store the battery in a LiPo safe bag to reduce fire risk.
- Protect the Deck – When checking in the skateboard deck, pack it securely with bubble wrap or inside a sturdy travel case.
- Arrive Early at Airport – Security checks may take longer with an electric skateboard.
- Carry Documentation – Print the battery specs (Wh rating) and airline approval email to show security staff.
Alternatives: Can You Take an Electric Scooter or Onewheel on a Plane?
The same rules apply to other personal electric vehicles:
- Electric Scooters: Most have large batteries (300–700 Wh) and are not allowed.
- Onewheels: Typically exceed 160 Wh, so not permitted.
- Hoverboards: Banned by many airlines due to past fire incidents.
In short, only small, battery-limited devices can fly.
Final Thoughts
So, can you take an electric skateboard on a plane?
- If your battery is under 100 Wh, you can usually bring it onboard.
- If your battery is between 100 and 160 Wh, you may be allowed with airline approval.
- If your battery is over 160 Wh, you cannot take it on a plane.
The good news is that some brands now design travel-friendly boards with swappable, smaller batteries, making it easier for riders to bring their e-boards worldwide.
If your skateboard doesn’t qualify, shipping or renting is your best alternative.
Traveling with an electric skateboard is possible, but it requires planning, research, and the right equipment. Before your next trip, always check with your airline, prepare your battery documentation, and pack safely. That way, you can enjoy the thrill of riding your e-board to your destination without stress.
