The International Imaging Industry Association (I3A) has advised travellers to keep lithium batteries out of checked baggage in compliance with international regulations.

 

December 20, 2011: The International Imaging Industry Association (I3A) has advised travellers to keep lithium batteries out of checked baggage in compliance with international regulations.
Loose lithium batteries, such as the primary lithium digital camera batteries, lithium-ion types that power laptop computers, and some AA batteries, have been prohibited in U.S. checked baggage since January 1, 2008 due to their extreme flammability. Elsewhere in the world, regulations may be even more stringent. I3A advises transporting any spare lithium batteries in carry-on baggage only, for safety’s sake and to avoid possible confiscation of items from checked baggage and accompanying delays. Additional pointers and information can be found on the U.S. Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) website.
According to the organisation, lithium batteries are safe inside their devices in carry-on bags. Spare batteries also safe in carry-ons if activation prevented but NOT allowed in checked baggage. Digital cameras, storage media and camera phones are safe in carry-on or checked baggage, as are DVDs and DVD players (but save your work in progress first).
I3A also offers travelers advice on making sure that the precious holiday memories they capture, using digital media or single-use cameras containing film, arrive at home safely after passing through security scanners. Details are on the I3A website. I3A’s recommendations are the result of joint research that the Integrity in Transportation of Imaging Products (ITIP) Committee conducted with the TSA on the X-ray machines and scanners used to inspect checked baggage and carry-on items.