Hand luggage is where plane passengers should keep everything they will need for their flight. For many people, this includes such key belongings as a spare jumper, a book or an eye mask. However, it’s not just creature comforts and items of entertainment that should be included in cabin baggage. There’s one item you must pack if you are taking any electronic items in your hand luggage.
It’s vital to pack a charger for your phone as well as one for other electrical or battery-powered devices.
This is of great importance should any of the items run out of battery before you pass through airport security.
Officials could ask you to turn an electronic item on – and you could be in trouble if you are unable to do so.
Not being able to switch on your device could see you considered a security threat.
By proving your device works as normal, a security screener knows that the phone, laptop or tablet is not hiding hidden explosives where the batteries are stored.
In 2014, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that it would not allow mobile phones or other electronic devices on US-bound planes unless travellers were able to turn them on at the request of security staff.
The UK soon followed suit. The Department for Transport issued updated guidelines in 2014, saying: “In line with the US advice, passengers on some routes into and out of the UK may now also be required to show that electronic devices in their hand luggage are powered up or face not being allowed to bring the device onto the aircraft.
“Passengers flying into or out of the UK are therefore advised to make sure electronic devices being carried in their hand luggage are charged before they travel.”
British Airways describes the importance of charging up devices on their website.
BA states: “Charge any electrical or battery-powered devices such as phones, tablets, e-books and laptops. Airport security might ask you to switch them on.”
However, packing a charger won’t just be useful if you are questioned by airport security.
American Airlines flight attendant Lauren Bamonte emphasises the importance of being prepared ahead of arriving at your destination.
“Pack your phone charger in your hand luggage so you can be sure to arrive with a fully charged battery,” she told Express.co.uk.
If you have more than one charger, Bamonte suggests saving on plug adapters with an extension lead.
“Rather than taking multiple plug adapters with you and hoping for lots of sockets at your destination, take one with an extension lead to provide you with all the power you need,” she said.
Home organisation expert Vicky Silverthorn also suggests always packing an emergency kit somewhere handy in your hand luggage.