I tried to fly with my Onewheel Pint (which has a 148Wh battery, technically allowed by some, confusing to others). TSA flagged it. The airline refused to let it board. I had to abandon it at the security checkpoint to make my flight. I filed a claim with my Travel Insurance for “Lost Baggage.” They denied it citing “Government Confiscation.”
Key Takeaways
- The Watt-Hour Limit: FAA/TSA rules generally limit lithium batteries to 100Wh (carried on). Up to 160Wh is allowed with airline approval. Most PEVs are well over this (Onewheel GT is 500Wh+).
- Confiscation Exclusion: Insurance covers theft. It does not cover items seized by customs, TSA, or police. If you abandon it, it’s considered “voluntarily parting with property.”
- Ground Shipping Only: You cannot legally fly with most PEVs. You must ship them via Ground (Hazmat).
- Pre-Check Doesn’t Help: Just because you got it through security once doesn’t mean it’s legal. If they catch you the second time, you lose the board.
The “Why” (Illegal Transport)
Carrying a large lithium battery on a passenger plane is a violation of Hazmat regulations. Insurance will not cover losses resulting from illegal acts or regulatory seizure.
“We do not cover loss caused by… seizure or destruction under quarantine or customs regulations.”
The Investigation: Flying with Boards
I checked the policies of major travel insurers.
1. Allianz / Travel Guard
- Policy: Denied. Seizure by authorities is a standard exclusion.
2. Standalone PEV Insurance
- Policy: Denied. They cover theft and damage. They do not cover “Abandonment” or “Confiscation.”
3. Shipping Services (BikeFlights)
- Policy: Covered. If you ship it ground and UPS loses it, that is covered. This is the only safe way.
Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Risk of Seizure | Insurance Coverage if Seized |
| Carry On (Under 160Wh) | Medium (Airline Discretion) | NO |
| Checked Bag | High (Strict Ban) | NO |
| Ground Shipping | None | YES (If lost by carrier) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Do Not Fly With It: Unless it’s a tiny board with a removable, under-99Wh battery (like some Exway models), do not try it.
- Ship It Ahead: Use UPS Ground. Insure the shipment for full value. It costs
50−50−80 but guarantees it arrives. - Rent at Destination: Look for “FriendWithA” or local PEV rental groups. Renting a board for a week is cheaper than losing yours.
FAQ
Can I take the battery out and mail it?
Yes. You can fly with the board frame (checked) and mail the battery. This is a common workaround.
[IMAGE: Photo of a TSA “Prohibited Items” sign with a hoverboard/PEV icon]