Flying with a Onewheel can be a convenient way to travel, but there are several important rules and guidelines to follow. In this guide, we’ll cover the key points based on official recommendations from Onewheel, ensuring a smooth journey with your Onewheel.
Why Take a Onewheel on a Trip?
A Onewheel is a great travel companion. It allows you to move freely without relying on public transport, saving money and time.
The Key Rules for Flying with a Onewheel
1. Remove the Battery
Regardless of your Onewheel’s battery size, it must be removed before flying. This rule applies to all electric skateboards, scooters, balance boards, and similar devices. After removing the battery, you should isolate all electrical contacts and pack the battery in a separate bag. Airlines require batteries to be transported in carry-on luggage, never in checked baggage. As noted on OneWheel’s support page, this step is mandatory due to lithium-ion battery regulations.
2. Weight Considerations
If you’re flying with only carry-on luggage, your Onewheel setup must be under the airline’s weight limit, typically around 10 kg. To stay within this limit, consider packing components like the footpad separately in another bag.
3. Carrying the Battery Separately
When carrying the battery in your hand luggage, use a well-protected, dedicated battery bag. Airport security (TSA) will almost certainly ask to inspect the battery, so be prepared to explain its purpose and show that the battery contacts have been isolated. According to the official guidelines, ensuring the battery is safely stowed is key to preventing any short-circuit or fire hazards.
4. Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage
- Carry-On: Some airlines allow carrying the Onewheel in the overhead compartment, but size restrictions can be an issue. If your Onewheel slightly exceeds the carry-on size limits, you may still be allowed to take it onboard, though this depends on airline policies and staff discretion. In such cases, you might have to pay extra fees to check it in at the gate.
- Checked Baggage: If you choose to check in your Onewheel, ensure it is well-padded inside a large travel bag with extra clothing or padding for protection. The board itself can be checked, but never place the battery in checked baggage.
Understanding Battery Regulations
Battery regulations for flights are strict. Here’s what you need to know:
- Under 100Wh per pack: No issues; you can carry multiple packs (up to 10–20, depending on the airline).
- 100Wh – 160Wh per pack: You are still allowed to fly, but there may be additional airline-specific restrictions. For instance, the Onewheel Pint has a battery capacity of 147 Wh, which is theoretically accepted by airlines as long as it is removed and carried in your hand luggage.
- Above 160Wh: Generally not allowed on commercial flights.
For those who are designing their own Onewheel battery system, the best approach is to use multiple battery packs under 100Wh each. DIY projects like VX Wheel and Flight Pack allow you to split your battery into smaller parts (up to 100Wh per segment), making air travel much easier by ensuring each part complies with airline regulations.
Flying with Onewheel Pint
Additional Guidelines from Onewheel Support
Onewheel’s official support page emphasizes several key points:
- Battery Removal & Documentation: You must remove the battery from your Onewheel before flying. It’s advisable to carry documentation, such as the battery’s cell data sheet, in case airline personnel ask for additional details.
- Carry-On Requirement: Lithium-ion batteries must be carried in your cabin baggage; they are never permitted in checked luggage. Make sure the battery is stored in a way that prevents any short circuits (for example, using insulating tape or protective covers on the contacts).
- Airline Communication: If your battery falls into the 100Wh–160Wh category, it might be necessary to contact your airline in advance to confirm that it complies with their regulations.
- Safety & Packaging: Both the board and the battery should be securely packed. Use a travel bag that minimizes movement and protects your equipment from damage during transit.
TSA and Airport Security Experience
Most TSA officers or security personnel may not have seen a Onewheel before. Be prepared to explain what it is and how it operates. In most cases, security is primarily focused on the battery. As long as you remove the battery and carry it separately, you should not face any major issues based on experiences shared by other travelers.
Assembling Your Onewheel After Landing
Once you arrive at your destination, reassembling the Onewheel is a quick process. Follow the proper sequence for connecting both the battery wires and balance wires to ensure your board functions safely and reliably.
Final Thoughts
Flying with a Onewheel is entirely feasible with the right preparation. The key takeaways are:
- Remove the battery before your flight.
- Carry the battery separately in your hand luggage.
- Keep your total weight under airline limits.
- Be prepared to explain your Onewheel at security.
- Use battery packs under 100Wh for hassle-free travel—or verify that larger battery packs (like the Pint’s 147Wh) are acceptable with your airline.
With these guidelines in mind, you can enjoy seamless Onewheel adventures wherever you go!