Easy Tips On How To Keep Connected For Summer Travel

Long gone are the days of using a postcard to keep in touch with loved ones back home. Today's traveller has at least a smartphone along with their foreign currency, with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) reporting the average plane passenger travels with at least four lithium batteries.

This creates a modern conundrum up there with remembering passports and packing enough swimsuits for a summer trip – how to safely travel with the batteries needed for modern living. The tyranny of distance for Australian holidaymakers – whether travelling internationally or across the country – means being smart about packing the right batteries is essential.

New rules for air travel

New regulations coming into effect in December will require passengers flying with major Australian carriers to keep power banks within sight, accessible and not in use during flights. There are also limits to the size of larger units, following an increase in reported incidents involving lithium-ion batteries.

But that doesn't mean travellers have to leave their devices at home. Many travellers, whether flying or hitting the road in cars and caravans, aren't aware of the rules and risks around carrying batteries. Following simple safety guidelines ensures you can travel with your batteries for the best holiday experience while staying connected with family and friends at home.

On the wide open road

If your summer adventure is more of the caravan variety, battery choice can transform your off-grid experience.

Modern lithium batteries, particularly Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄), have revolutionised camping power solutions. They deliver more usable power while being lighter, charging faster, and lasting longer than traditional AGM batteries – making them ideal for heavy-use caravan setups.

To keep lithium batteries for summer adventures in tip-top shape, monitor charge levels and avoid complete discharge. Use a DC-DC charger while driving, solar panels when parked, and an AC charger when connected to mains power. This multi-source charging approach ensures your batteries stay healthy and your adventure stays powered.

Understanding battery regulations isn't just about avoiding hassles at the airport or ensuring power on your trip – it's about keeping everyone safe while exploring this magnificent country. Battery World has compiled an easy-to-follow checklist to make your summer holidays as smooth as possible.

Air Travel

• Check with your airline and read the manufacturer rules for carrying and charging lithium batteries.
• Bag tags, locks and scales powered by button cells or alkaline batteries are permitted in checked baggage.
• Keep spare batteries in carry-on luggage and protected from damage, including accidental activation.
• Remove the lithium battery or power bank in any bags equipped with a lithium battery/power bank used to recharge/power a portable electronic device via a USB port.

Road Travel

• Monitor charge levels on lithium batteries and avoid complete discharge.
• Use a DC-DC charger while driving.
• Use solar panels when parked.
• Use an AC charger when connected to mains power.

In General

• Choose a reputable supplier when buying devices and spare batteries.
• Never use or charge batteries showing signs of damage, overheating or swelling.
• Check kids are storing their batteries correctly and ensure all devices are well charged before leaving home.
• Remember you can dispose of batteries safely through approved recycling programs including at Battery World stores nationally.