Flying with a Heated Vest: Is It Allowed?

“I’m planning to travel during the colder months—can I wear my heated vest on a plane?”

“Well, I’m not quite sure...”

Winter travel often comes with its own set of challenges, especially when flying to colder destinations like Canada or Russia. Packing the right clothing and accessories is key to staying warm and comfortable. However, bulky winter gear can quickly fill up your luggage and become a hassle during your trip. And if your plans include outdoor adventures like mountain climbing or skiing, a traditional coat may not be enough to handle the fluctuating temperatures.

Heated vests are a popular choice for travelers, but many wonder: Can you take a heated vest on a plane?

What’s A Heated Vest?

First, it’s important to understand what a heated vest is and how it works. Designed to combat cold weather, a heated vest typically features built-in heating elements, insulated layers, and a rechargeable battery that powers the system. 

Once the battery is connected and the power button is pressed, the vest quickly begins to generate warmth, evenly distributing heat across the body. It's a simple yet effective solution for staying comfortable in low temperatures. For more details, feel free to check out our user guide.

Can I Wear My Heated Vest on An Airplane?

Before flying, it’s essential to check relevant airline regulations to avoid any unexpected issues. So, can you bring a heated vest on a plane? The short answer is yes, as long as you follow a few important rules.

If your heated vest doesn’t include a rechargeable battery, it can be packed in either your checked luggage or carry-on. However, when it comes to lithium batteries, airlines have specific guidelines.

According to most regulations, spare lithium batteries with a capacity under 100Wh (roughly 27,000mAh at 3.7V) are allowed in carry-on baggage but not permitted in checked luggage.

Batteries rated between 100Wh and 160Wh are limited to two per passenger and must be carried in the cabin, not checked.

Fortunately, heated vest batteries typically range from 4,800mAh to 10,000mAh, which places them well within the approved limits. These can usually be packed safely in your carry-on luggage. However, it's always best to double-check with your airline to ensure compliance with their specific regulations.

While battery safety is a common concern—due to the potential risk of fire or explosion—another question some travelers have is whether the heating system in a heated vest might interfere with aircraft navigation systems. Because of this, airlines require all electronic devices to remain off during takeoff and landing.

So, yes—you can wear your heated vest during the flight, but be sure to turn it off during takeoff. Once cruising altitude is reached and it's safe to use electronic devices, you can switch it back on to stay warm and comfortable in the air.

How to Take My Heated Vest on A Plane?

As we've discussed, heated vests are generally allowed on planes, as long as you follow airline regulations. Now, let’s go over a few practical tips for traveling with one.

• Check your airline’s rules before flying to confirm that both the heated apparel and power bank are permitted. (Tip: If you're flying internationally, it’s a good idea to call the airline directly for confirmation.)

• Ensure your power bank meets airline requirements. Batteries under 100Wh are typically allowed in carry-on luggage, but spare batteries should never be packed in checked baggage.

• At security checkpoints, if you're wearing your heated vest, be sure to disconnect the battery, take off the vest, and place it on the conveyor belt for screening.

• During the flight, you may wear your heated vest, but the battery must remain turned off and safely stored in your carry-on.

Conclusion

In summary, battery-heated vests are TSA-friendly, and there are no strict restrictions on bringing heated clothing aboard a plane. So yes, you can travel with your heated vest. Just be sure to check your airline’s specific regulations in advance to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

FAQs

1. Are Heated Vests Safe?

Yes, heated vests are generally safe to use. Most are powered by rechargeable batteries with built-in safety features like overheat protection, short-circuit prevention, and automatic shut-off. To stay safe, always follow the product’s user and care instructions.

2. What Is the Best Voltage for A Heated Vest?

Heated vests commonly use 5V, 7.4V, or 12V batteries. While 5V models were once popular, they’re now less favored due to lower heating performance. 7.4V and 12V vests are preferred today for faster heating and better warmth, ideal for cold-weather adventures.

3. Where Can I Buy A Heated Vest?

You can purchase heated vests through the brand’s official website or on platforms like Amazon, Walmart, or select retail stores. Before buying, it’s helpful to read reviews or check out “best heated vest” buying guides to find the option that best suits your needs.