Choosing the gadgets to put in your carry-on bag and checked luggage is a daunting task for most travelers. But is it allowed to put laptops in checked luggage?
Yes, laptops & macbooks, in general, are allowed in checked luggage and on planes. 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 Laptop.
Can I Pack My Laptop in Checked Luggage?
Yes, you can pack your laptop 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!
Laptop on Plane – 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 Laptop or MacBook in tow. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
When passing through airport security, you’ll need to remove your Laptop 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 okay. 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 device behind!
Laptops on Planes: 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.
Fun Things To Do on a Laptop While You Are on a Plane
Flights can be fun and boring. If you are properly prepared they can be fun, you downloaded your favorite movie on your laptop and you’re ready to relax, but there are other alternatives to that:
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. Watch a Movie or YouTube
A long flight is a 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! You can even download movies from Netflix.
Related: Best Laptops For Watching Movies & Netflix
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.
Conclusion
So, can you bring your Laptop on a plane? Absolutely! Just remember to follow airport security protocols, practice good in-flight etiquette, and, most importantly, keep your Laptop safe and sound.
Laptops 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!
FAQ
Are laptops allowed during takeoffs?
Passengers are typically asked to turn off electronic devices or switch them to airplane mode during these critical phases of the flight for safety reasons.
Is Bluetooth allowed on planes?
Bluetooth is generally allowed on planes, but its usage may be restricted during certain phases of the flight. Passengers are typically required to turn off or disable Bluetooth, along with other electronic devices, during takeoff and landing for safety reasons.
Related Posts:
Ernests is the founder and chief editor at WolfofLaptop, with extensive experience as an editor and writer for numerous other tech blogs. His journey into the world of tech blogging evolved from a background in marketing, eventually leading him to become a full-time tech enthusiast. Ernests has successfully merged his marketing expertise with his passion for technology. He has a deep affection for computers, iPads, and smartphones, and his writing style is geared toward offering helpful insights to a global audience. Ernests specializes in crafting comprehensive guides, buyer's guides, and news articles.
In his spare time, Ernests enjoys staying active with activities like running and sports. He's also an avid movie enthusiast and finds relaxation in gaming, particularly on his trusty PS5.