Bringing Stereo and Radio Devices on Planes

By Vanessa Ramos | Last Updated July 22, 2022

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Carry-on bags

Yes

Checked luggage

Yes

Flights in the USA (Regulated by TSA and FAA)

Radios are allowed both in carry-on and checked luggage in the United States, but most airlines prohibit their in-flight use.

Flights in Canada (Regulated by CATSA)

Radios are approved aboard planes in Canada in hand and checked baggage, but passengers are forbidden from using them on the plane.

Flights in Europe (Regulated by IATA and EASA)

Radios and stereo devices are allowed on European flights in hand and checked luggage, but their use is prohibited on aircraft due to possible interference with avionic systems. They must be kept off at all times.

Flights in the United Kingdom (Regulated by CAA)

Not specified, but radios are often considered one of the Portable Electrical Devices allowed in hand and checked luggage for flights in the United Kingdom. The use of all types of radio is usually forbidden on United Kingdom flights.

Flights in Australia (Regulated by CASA)

Radio devices and stereos are permitted on Australian flights in carry-on and cargo baggage, but their use during flight is restricted.

Flights in New Zealand (Regulated by CAA)

Radios are allowed in hand luggage on New Zealand flights, but airlines prohibit their use during the flight. Carrying radios in checked luggage is allowed but unadvisable.

Flights in China (Regulated by CAAC)

Radio devices are some of the Portable Electronic Devices that are allowed in Chinese aircraft. While radios are allowed both on carry-on and checked baggage if the battery and size follow airlines’ standards, they must stay off at all times during the flight.

Flights in India (Regulated by AAI)

Radio and stereos aren’t listed as dangerous goods by Indian authorities, but satellite phones are prohibited from entering India without a special permit. In India, syntonizing certain radio frequencies requires a special license. Owning equipment that can syntonize and transmit in those frequencies without a government’s license is illegal. It’s best practice to avoid packing any type of radio device when traveling to India.

Disclaimer: The final decision of whether you can bring stereo and radio devices onboard airplanes always rests on the security officer. Some airlines also have additional rules that may be different.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bringing Stereo and Radio Devices on Planes

Are all types of Radio devices allowed (handheld, VHF, CB, HAM, marine, etc.)?

All types of radio devices are allowed on airplanes in the United States including handheld FM Radios, VHF, HAM, and marine radios both in carry-on and checked luggage. But, the use of radios is restricted on planes due to the possibility of interference with the plane’s systems. Passengers traveling with radio devices should also pack their cables neatly by using velcro cable ties since multiple loose cables might be a motive for additional inspection.

Can I bring radio devices on planes that use dry, single-use, disposable batteries?

Travelers can carry radio devices that use dry batteries (A, AA, AAA, C, and D) on airplanes in the United States. Although they’re allowed both in carry-on and checked baggage, it’s recommended to pack electronics in the carry-on suitcase to prevent any fire incidents in the cargo area.

Can I bring rechargeable radio devices on planes that use lithium batteries?

Travelers can bring rechargeable radio devices that use lithium batteries on flights in the United States with certain limitations. Devices with lithium batteries over 100 watt hours are allowed only in checked baggage. Devices with batteries under 100 watt hours are permitted in carry-on and also in checked baggage if the batteries are installed on the device.

Do I need to remove radio devices when going through security?

You should remove your radio devices along with other electronics when going through airport security in the United States. Current rules establish that every electronic device larger than a phone must be removed from hand luggage for screening.

Is it better to pack radio devices in hand or checked luggage?

Overall, it’s advisable to pack your radio with other electronics in your hand baggage if the batteries follow the on-flight battery standards, and if it fits in your carry-on.

Can I bring car stereos and amplifiers on planes?

You can bring your car stereo and amplifier on flights in the United States. Although car parts without any fuel are allowed both on carry-on and checked suitcases, to travel inside the cabin, the stereo and amplifier should comply with the airlines’ carry-on standards. It’s advisable to consult with your airline about how to travel with your car stereo and amplifier ahead of your trip.