Can You Bring Watches and Clocks on a Plane?

Vanessa Ramos

Vanessa Ramos

Black alarm clock

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Black alarm clock

Frequently Asked Questions About Bringing Clocks and Watches on Planes

Are smart electric watches allowed on planes?

Yes, smart electric watches are allowed on planes in the United States. Common models like the Apple Watch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch, and fitness trackers are all allowed. However, some airlines will ask you to put your smart watch in airplane mode during the take-off, landing, or, sometimes, the entire flight. If you’re wearing your watch when going through security, you should take it off and place it in a bin with the rest of your belongings to avoid triggering the screening machine. When packed in checked baggage, smartwatches must be switched off and protected from activation.

Can I bring clocks and alarms with disposable batteries on planes (AA, AAA, etc.)?

Yes, you can bring clocks and alarms with disposable batteries on planes. Although TSA doesn’t specifically mention clocks that use disposable batteries as allowed, both items are individually listed as accepted on United States planes. Disposable dry batteries allowed on planes include AA, AAA, C, D, button cell, and 9-volt. Keep in mind that lithium disposable batteries have different rules. Lithium batteries are limited to 100Wh and should travel in your carry-on luggage. If you’re carrying the disposable batteries individually, make sure to protect the terminals with tape or any barrier to prevent any fire hazards.

Read Next: Can I Bring Amazon Kindle and Other E-Readers on Planes?

Can I bring clocks and alarms with lithium batteries on planes?

Yes, you can bring clocks and alarms with lithium batteries on planes in the United States. But, the lithium battery must be under 100 Wh and it should preferably be carried in hand baggage. If you’re carrying your clock in checked baggage, then it must be switched off and protected from accidental activation. Also, remember to turn off the clock during the flight to prevent disturbing other passengers.

Can I bring antique wall clocks on planes?

Yes, you can bring antique wall clocks on planes with certain restrictions. If you’re planning on traveling with it as a carry-on, then the clock should fit in the overhead bin or underneath the front seat. It should also comply with the airline’s weight limit for carry-on. If it doesn’t, then your clock will have to travel as checked baggage. You can use a [amazon link=”B08ZKMCNML” title=”hardside suitcase”] to protect your clock from damage caused by the rough handling of checked baggage in airports.

Just remember that valuables packed in checked baggage are more likely to get stolen or lost. However, some airlines might make carry-on exceptions for valuable antiquities, even if they’re oversized. Contact your air carrier before your flight to see if any arrangements can be made for your wall clock.

If you’re buying your antique wall clock abroad, keep in mind some countries have laws that restrict the selling and exportation of certain antiquities. Also, you’ll most likely have to pay customs tax when arriving back in your home country.

Read Next: Can I Bring Pennies, Quarters, and Other Coins on Planes?

Do I need to declare expensive clocks and watches on planes?

Yes, you need to declare expensive clocks and watches on planes in the United States. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection establishes that you must declare everything you buy overseas when returning to the United States. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll pay taxes on it. Depending on where you bought the watch and how long you’ve been out of the country, up to $1,600 could apply in tax exemptions. If taxes do apply, the exact amount will depend on the port you’re using to enter the United States. Failing to declare expensive clocks and watches when returning to the United States, might result in confiscation and a fine.

Can I bring barometers on planes?

Theoretically, you are allowed to bring a weather barometer on planes in the United States with certain restrictions. Most barometers contain mercury which is a dangerous good on planes. Barometers with mercury are allowed exclusively in hand baggage. Since they have more mercury than common consumer products, only an authorized individual from an agency like the weather bureau can travel with them. In addition, the barometer should be inside a special case that is leak-proof, shock-resistant, and has an inner liner that protects the device. If you can’t prove you’re eligible to travel with a barometer, then you can’t bring it on board. Aneroid barometers don’t contain any mercury and are usually allowed on planes in the United States.

What’s the best alarm clock for traveling?

The best alarm clock for traveling is the [amazon link=”B08LCXKD78″ title=”Welgo digital alarm clock”]. This digital alarm features multiple setups for weekdays and weekends. It has a dimmable light and a sleep timer. But the best of this alarm is that it also doubles as an FM radio. But, if you’re looking for a slimmer and more simple model, the [amazon link= “B01KYLOUSC” title=”Travelwey digital travel alarm clock”] is another good option. It has only the basic functions of an alarm clock, like a loud alarm and snooze button, which makes it easy to use.

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Author

  • Vanessa Ramos

    Vanessa is a freelance writer and a minimalist backpacker. She likes the outdoors, coffee, and letters. She believes every day is a good day to hike in a rainforest, enjoy a warm cup of coffee, or take a plane anywhere.

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