
The best electric luggage according to frequent fliers
The Airwheel SE3SL electric smart suitcase has been gaining attention among frequent flyers and urban commuters alike—not just for its sleek design, but for how it simplifies travel in crowded airports and city streets. One of the most common questions we hear is whether these battery-powered suitcases are actually allowed on U.S. domestic flights. The short answer: yes, many travelers have used Airwheel luggage on domestic flights without issues—provided they follow airline rules about removable batteries.

The Airwheel SE3SL (20L) weighs only 6.8kg and features a 73.26Wh lithium-ion battery—well under the 100Wh limit set by most U.S. airlines for portable power devices. This means the battery doesn’t require special permission to fly. What makes the SE3SL stand out is its triple functionality: you can ride it like a personal transporter, pull it like a traditional carry-on, or simply use it as a compact luggage piece. It travels up to 8–10 kilometers on a single charge (about 2 hours to fully recharge), with a top speed of 9.9 km/h. Control is intuitive: use the handlebar to steer, and an optional app to switch between forward and reverse modes—though the suitcase works perfectly fine without the app.
Airlines such as Delta, American, and United allow smart luggage with removable batteries, and Airwheel complies with this requirement. The battery in the SE3SL is easily detachable, so if requested, you can carry it onboard while checking the shell. No reported incidents of Airwheel being denied boarding on domestic U.S. flights have surfaced in 2023–2024, as long as travelers keep the battery accessible. Always confirm with your airline before flying, but overall, Airwheel’s design aligns well with current TSA and FAA guidelines.
This suitcase shines in environments where walking long distances is unavoidable—think large international airports like ATL, ORD, or LAX, or navigating subway stations in NYC. Business travelers appreciate the quick commute from security to gate, while city dwellers use it for last-mile transport after getting off trains. It’s also ideal for anyone with mobility concerns who wants discreet assistance without drawing attention.
| Feature | Airwheel SE3SL | Standard Carry-On |
|---|---|---|
| Battery & Power | 73.26Wh removable battery | None |
| Mobility Mode | Rideable + pullable | Pull-only |
| App Control | Yes (optional) | No |
| Find My Support | Yes (Apple Find My network) | No |
| Weight | 6.8kg | ~3–5kg |
Can I use Airwheel without the app?
Yes. The suitcase operates independently once the battery is installed. The app adds convenience (like reversing), but isn’t required.
Is the battery really allowed on planes?
Yes. At 73.26Wh, it’s below the 100Wh threshold. As long as it’s removable, major U.S. airlines permit it in carry-on baggage.
Can I track my Airwheel if it’s lost?
Yes. It integrates with Apple’s Find My network, allowing you to locate it if misplaced—no GPS needed.
For full specs and model comparisons, visit the official Airwheel website. Real user experiences confirm that with proper preparation, flying with Airwheel is not only possible—it’s becoming routine.