Today, we’re tackling a topic that’s been on the minds of many of you: “Are MacBooks allowed on planes?” Strap in and get ready for takeoff as we explore the fascinating realm of gadgets in the sky, with your MacBook as your wingman! We will also guide you on how to get your Macbook through the airport security checkpoint.
Yes, MacBooks and laptops in general are allowed on a plane. It will be classified as Personal Electronic Device(PED). You can take it in carry-on and checked baggage.
Let’s cover a few other details that you should know when traveling with your Macbook.
Can I Pack My MacBook in My Carry-on?
Yes, you’re more than welcome to bring your MacBook along with you in your carry-on luggage.
In fact, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) actually prefers that you stow your laptop in your carry-on rather than your checked baggage.
Why, you ask? It’s all about security. Laptops, including MacBooks, are known to have lithium-ion batteries, which can pose a fire hazard if they’re damaged. By keeping your laptop close, you can keep an eye on it and prevent any potential mishaps.
Are MacBooks allowed in checked luggage?
Technically, you can pack your MacBook in your checked luggage. However, it’s not the best idea. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and most airlines advise against it. Why? Two words: lithium-ion batteries. These batteries, found in MacBooks and other laptops, can pose a fire risk if damaged. Keeping your MacBook in your carry-on allows you to keep an eye on it, minimizing any potential hazards.
So the answer is yes, but TSA and as well as I recommend taking your Mac in Carr-on. It’s safer, and you’ll have it close by to pass the time during layovers!
Hold Up! What About Security Checkpoints?
Ah, the dreaded security checkpoints! These can be a bit of a headache for travelers, especially when you’ve got your beloved MacBook in tow. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
When passing through airport security, you’ll need to remove your MacBook from your bag and place it in a separate bin.
This allows the X-ray machines to get a better look at your gadget, ensuring that everything’s on the up-and-up. Just be sure to keep an eye on it and pick it up as soon as you clear security. You don’t want to accidentally leave your precious MacBook behind!
In-flight MacBook Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
You’re through security, and you’re finally on the plane. Can you whip out your MacBook and get some work done, or should you stow it away? Here’s a quick rundown of the do’s and don’ts of in-flight MacBook use:
Do:
- Use your MacBook during the designated electronic usage times. This typically means when the plane has reached cruising altitude and the seatbelt sign is turned off.
- Keep the volume down, or better yet, use headphones. Nobody wants to listen to your Spotify playlist or Zoom meeting (no offense).
- Be mindful of your screen’s brightness. A super bright screen can be annoying to your fellow passengers, especially on red-eye flights.
Don’t:
- Use your MacBook during takeoff or landing. These are considered critical phases of flight, and you’ll need to stow your MacBook away.
- Hog the power outlets. If your plane has them, remember to share with your fellow passengers. We’re all in this together, folks!
- Leave your MacBook unattended. Not only is this a security risk, but it also increases the chances of accidentally leaving it behind.
How to put MacBook in airplane mode?
As a responsible traveler, you might wonder how to put your MacBook in airplane mode. Unfortunately, MacBook does not come with airplane mode. But no worries – we’ve got you covered! You can turn off radio stuff yourself using this guide:
- Click on the Wi-Fi icon located in the upper-right corner of your MacBook’s menu bar.
- Select “Turn Wi-Fi Off.”
- Open “System Preferences” and click “Bluetooth.”
- Click “Turn Bluetooth Off” to disable it
Voila! Your MacBook is now in airplane mode.
Fun things to do on MacBook while you are in a plane
Now that you’ve got your MacBook safely stowed in your carry-on and airplane mode activated, let’s talk about some entertaining things you can do with it while flying!
1. Edit Photos and Videos
Why not use the time in the air to polish up those vacation photos and videos? Apps like Adobe Lightroom and iMovie are perfect for turning your memories into masterpieces!
2. Get Creative
Unleash your inner artist with apps like Procreate, Sketchbook, or Pixelmator. Or, if you’re more of a wordsmith, write that novel you’ve always dreamt of with Scrivener or Ulysses.
3. Learn Something New
Take advantage of your time in the air by learning a new skill. You can download video courses from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or Skillshare before your flight and learn on the go!
4. Game On!
If you’re a gaming enthusiast, your MacBook can provide hours of entertainment. Download a few games from Steam, GOG, or the Mac App Store before your trip and dive into your favorite virtual worlds.
5. Relax and Unwind
A long flight is the perfect opportunity to sit back and enjoy a good movie, TV series, or podcast. Just remember to download your favorites before takeoff and bring your headphones!
Wrap Up!
So, can you bring your MacBook on a plane? Absolutely! Just remember to follow airport security protocols, practice good in-flight etiquette, and most importantly, keep your MacBook safe and sound.
MacBooks are lightweight, powerful, and, let’s face it, they make us look pretty darn cool. No wonder we want to keep them close, even at 30,000 feet!
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I love tech and all about it. I'm interested in finding ways how they can make my life more productive, and I share my knowledge with my blog readers. I'm an iPad Pro, iPhone, MacBook, and Apple Watch user, so I know a thing or two about these devices and try to write helpful content around these topics.