Traveling with NiMH rechargeable batteries

[mocepts]

Does anyone know of any travel restrictions for NiMH rechargeable batteries? I know you are supposed to take lithium batteries in your carry-on, but I don't see anything about NiMH. Should I carry on just to be safe?

Thanks.

[MSilvia]

I've had my bags inspected because a dozen NiMh batteries with a rubber band around them looked suspicious on the x-ray, but it wasn't a problem... they put them back in the bag and let me check it.

[CHT]

I always carry on 10-12 NiMh batteries, with charger, in my camera bag and I've never been questioned about them so I would think it's ok.

[Damselfish]

I'm not sure there's any hard rules about this right now. I seem to remember there was a period where they encouraged checking them, on the theory they didn't like someone having that many batteries on the plane. We've done both without a problem but tend to check more.

I think they do still discourage checking loose batteries or stuff like lights full of batteries, because of the fire hazard. (Of course, this is completely opposite the new lithium battery rule, but I guess they consider a camera unlikely to turn on and overheat compared to a light.)

I've also heard stories that security in some countries (where batteries are expensive compared to the cost of living) will sometimes say you can't have batteries in carry on, in order to get the batteries for themselves. And that batteries in checked will disappear for the same reason. No idea if those stores are true, but if they you are kind of screwed either way.

[chinacat46]

I've heard in Roatan they will take your batteries from your carry on. I haven't been since 2002 so I don't know if it's true but that is what I've heard.

[CompuDude]

Can't speak for every little tiny country in the world, but the TSA has no special rules about NiMH batteries. At least, not in the volume that you're likely to be bringing.