Yes. Ordinary alkaline, NiMH and NiCd dry-cell batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt, button cells) are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags, as long as they are protected from short circuit and damage.
Allowed in any reasonable personal quantity. Keep them in the original packaging or a battery case so terminals cannot touch metal.
Allowed in checked bags, protected from damage and short circuit. This applies to non-lithium dry cells only; lithium AA/AAA cells are lithium-metal batteries and follow spare lithium battery rules (carry-on only as spares).
Checked against official TSA, FAA and government pages on . These are US rules unless we say otherwise; the TSA officer at the checkpoint makes the final call.
The rules in numbers
- Covers alkaline, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and nickel-cadmium (NiCd) dry cells
- Must be protected from damage, sparks and heat (no loose batteries touching keys or coins)
- Lithium AA/AAA spares: carry-on only, max 2 g lithium each
Packing tips
- Check the label: 'lithium' AA batteries are not alkaline and cannot go loose in checked bags.
- 9-volt batteries are the most likely to short out because both terminals are on top; tape them or keep the plastic caps on.
Questions people ask
Can you bring AA batteries in checked luggage?
Yes. Alkaline and NiMH AA batteries are allowed in checked bags if protected from short circuit. Lithium AA spares must go in your carry-on.
Are rechargeable AA batteries allowed on planes?
Yes. NiMH rechargeables are dry-cell batteries and are allowed in carry-on and checked bags when protected from short circuit.