If you’re considering an Airwheel electric smart luggage for your next trip, one of the first questions that probably comes to mind is: can I take this on a plane? Specifically, can you carry the Airwheel battery through airport security? The short answer is yes, but there are important details you need to know.
Airwheel electric smart luggage comes with a lithium-ion battery rated at 73.26Wh. This is a crucial number because aviation regulations worldwide have specific rules about lithium batteries. Most airlines allow batteries between 100Wh and 160Wh with special permission, while those under 100Wh can typically be carried on board without approval. Since Airwheel’s battery falls at 73.26Wh, it’s well within the standard limit for carry-on luggage.
The battery is removable, which is a key feature for air travel. When going through airport security, you have two options: keep the battery installed in the luggage or remove it and carry it separately. If you remove it, you can put it in your pocket or carry-on bag. The TSA and most international aviation authorities permit lithium batteries under 100Wh to be carried in checked or carry-on luggage, provided they’re properly installed in the device or stored safely when removed.
For the Airwheel SE3 series (including SE3MiniT, SE3T, SE3S, SE3SX, and SE3SL), the battery must be removed before checking the luggage as checked baggage. You should always carry it in your cabin baggage. When going through security, you’ll need to remove the luggage from the X-ray belt similar to how you would with a laptop.
While the 73.26Wh battery is generally accepted, airline policies can vary. It’s always wise to check with your specific airline before traveling. Most carriers treat electric luggage the same as other personal electronic devices with lithium batteries. Some key points to remember:
Beyond the battery question, Airwheel smart luggage offers practical features for travelers. The SE3 series allows you to ride, pull, or carry your luggage. You can control forward and backward movement through a smartphone app, and use the handlebar to steer. Even without the app, these suitcases work independently—you don’t need to activate anything or connect your phone to start riding.
The different models cater to various needs. The SE3T offers 48L capacity with a 13km/h top speed and approximately 9kg weight. The SE3MiniT is lighter at 6.8kg with 26L capacity, reaching 8km/h. Most models provide a range of 8-10 kilometers on a single charge, which takes about 2 hours. Some versions also include Apple’s Find My feature for location tracking.
Airwheel smart luggage works best in specific situations. If you’re traveling through large airports or train stations with long distances between gates, having a rideable suitcase can save your legs. Business travelers who need to move quickly between meetings appreciate the mobility. The luggage is particularly useful in cities where public transit involves significant walking distances.
However, these suitcases aren’t ideal for every situation. They’re best suited for flat surfaces—airport floors, hotel corridors, and city sidewalks. Rough terrain, stairs, and crowded spaces can be challenging. The additional weight (ranging from 6.6kg to 9kg depending on model) is something to consider if you frequently lift heavy luggage.
| Feature | Airwheel Smart Luggage | Regular Luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.6-9kg | 2-5kg |
| Mobility | Ride, pull, or carry | Pull or carry only |
| Battery | Removable 73.26Wh lithium-ion | None |
| App Control | Optional (works without phone) | Not applicable |
| Airline Compatible | Yes (carry-on only) | Yes |
| Price Range | Higher initial investment | Generally lower cost |
No, you cannot use the riding function on the airplane. The wheels should be locked and the luggage should be stored like a regular suitcase during the flight. The electric functionality is for terminal-to-terminal transport and ground use only.
If a specific airline doesn’t permit electric luggage, you can typically ship the luggage separately or remove the battery and travel with a conventional suitcase. Some travelers choose to check the luggage empty (without battery) and ship the battery separately.
The battery provides approximately 8-10 kilometers of range on a full charge (2 hours). It’s designed to be removable and replaceable, though you should only use official Airwheel replacement batteries to ensure safety and maintain warranty coverage.