Here’s the sassy truth: Your Kindle is not a laptop. Neither is your iPad (unless you own one of those giant pro models that could moonlight as a cutting board). The rule generally applies to devices larger than a smartphone.
If it looks like a laptop and clacks like a laptop, it’s coming out. If it’s a tablet, you can usually leave it in your bag unless the agent gives you the evil eye. When in doubt, ask—or just whip that sucker out and look like a pro.
Can You Check Your Laptop On A Plane? Here's What TSA Has To Say
Battery Life and Other Drama
Your laptop’s battery needs to be under 100 watt-hours (Wh) to fly without a fuss. Most laptops fall under this, but that gaming beast you built in 2019? Check the label. If it’s over 160 Wh, you need airline approval, and they might treat you like you’re smuggling a mini nuclear reactor.
Also: please charge your laptop before the flight. Nothing says “I’m a responsible adult” like a dead battery at 30,000 feet. Plus, you’ll want to watch that rom-com or pretend to work so the person next to you stops trying to chat about their cats.
