You’re Not Supposed to Pack This in Checked Bags at O’Hare Anymore

The next time you fly out of O'Hare Airport in Chicago or the Rockford airport, you might want to ensure this item isn't in your checked bag.

New TSA Rules Sure To Trip You Up At The Airport

For years, it has been checked because you weren't allowed to put it in your carry-on. I'm talking about lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries, as well as the power banks, portable chargers, and charging cases that usually accompany them.

New Rule Change on Lithium Ion Batteries and Chargers At The Airport

At first, we were told not to put those things in our carry-on bags, but now the FAA has changed course and is asking us to forget all that and put them back in our carry-on bags.

If you're confused about the switch, CNTraveler explains why:

The lithium-ion batteries inside most portable chargers have proven to pose a fire risk in the cargo hold—and mid-air combustion is quite frankly the last thing any airline’s schedule needs right about now.

Why Did The TSA Change Their Mind on Lithium Ion Batteries and Chargers?

The question is, if we are to be concerned about lithium batteries or devices in the cargo hold, shouldn't we be worried about them in the cabin? The answer is no because, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), flight crews are trained to recognize and respond to lithium battery fires in the cabin.

The FAA website outlines size and quantity limits for lithium metal and ion batteries, so go there if you have unanswered questions.