Can You Bring a Theragun on a Plane? A Travel-Smart Guide for Sore Muscles

Few things feel better after a long flight than firing up a Theragun. A few minutes of percussive massage can melt away hours of sitting still, stiff joints, or that weird neck cramp you didn’t notice until landing. But before you toss it into your carry-on, there’s the obvious question: can you actually bring a Theragun on a plane? The short answer is yes. The long answer? It depends on how you pack, where you’re going, and what model you’re bringing. Here’s everything you need to know to fly smooth with your massage gun in tow.

Yes, You Can Bring a Theragun on a Plane — But There Are Rules

Theraguns (and similar massage guns like Hypervolt or Ekrin) are allowed on planes, but they fall under the category of portable electronic devices containing lithium-ion batteries. Because of that battery, airlines and airport security agencies (like TSA) have specific rules around how and where you can pack them.

The most important rule: keep it in your carry-on. Lithium-ion batteries are not allowed in checked baggage unless they’re removable and packed separately, and even then, they come with limits. Most Theragun batteries are not designed to be removed easily, which means the entire device must fly with you in the cabin.

In the U.S., the TSA allows massage guns through security checkpoints, but they may ask to inspect them — especially if the device is bulky or unfamiliar. I’ve had mine pulled aside once or twice, but a simple “it’s a muscle recovery tool” explanation is usually enough. Still, always give yourself a few extra minutes at security just in case.

Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage: What’s Allowed?

Here’s the deal when deciding where to stash your Theragun:

• Carry-On: The safest and most compliant option. Bringing your Theragun in your carry-on ensures the battery stays within reach — which is important for aviation safety. If a lithium battery were to overheat (rare, but possible), it can be handled by crew members if it’s in the cabin. TSA may want to swab or visually inspect it, but they won’t take it away if it’s properly packed and clearly a consumer device.
• Checked Baggage: Risky and mostly discouraged. You should avoid putting your Theragun in checked luggage unless the battery is removable — and even then, the battery must go in your carry-on. Airlines are strict about this. A massage gun left in a checked bag with an attached lithium battery may be removed by airport staff or flagged as a fire risk.

Quick tip: if you’re flying with multiple electronics (like camera gear or a laptop), group your Theragun next to similar devices for an easier security scan. It helps TSA agents understand what they’re looking at without digging through your whole bag.

What About International Flights?

Flying internationally with a Theragun adds a layer of complexity, but it’s still totally doable. Most countries follow the same general guidelines as the TSA — if your device has a lithium-ion battery, you must carry it onboard.

However, customs regulations vary. While the massage gun itself isn’t illegal or suspicious, some countries are extra cautious about electronics — especially unfamiliar or high-powered devices. Here’s what to check before your flight:

• Battery size: Most Theragun models have batteries under 100 watt-hours, well below the standard airline limit (usually 100–160Wh for carry-on). But if you have extra batteries or aftermarket models, confirm the specs to avoid issues.
• Destination restrictions: Countries like Japan, Australia, or the UAE are known for stricter customs checks. Be sure your device isn’t listed on any restricted items list, and check for import limits on electronics.
• Proof of ownership: If you’re questioned at customs, it helps to have a receipt or product manual. It’s a small thing, but showing it’s a legitimate consumer item can prevent it from being held up.

Bottom line: bring it in your carry-on, double-check foreign rules, and keep packaging or proof of purchase handy if traveling internationally.

Can You Use a Theragun on the Plane?

Technically, yes — but in practice, probably not the best idea. Most Theraguns are loud enough to draw attention in quiet spaces, and airplane cabins aren’t exactly private. Using it mid-flight might annoy your seatmates or even prompt a flight attendant to ask you to turn it off.

If you need relief during the flight, consider alternatives like:

• Neck wraps or travel massage pillows — quiet, discreet, and more accepted onboard
• Manual massage tools or lacrosse balls — easy to stash and use under your thigh, lower back, or shoulders
• Stretching at the back of the cabin (when allowed) — most long-haul flights expect passengers to move around and won’t mind if you take a few minutes to stretch gently

Use your Theragun before the flight (in the gate area or a quiet corner) or after landing — when you’ve got space, silence, and less chance of bothering strangers.

Travel-Friendly Alternatives to Full-Size Theraguns

If you love the benefits of a Theragun but don’t want the bulk or attention of a full-size model, consider these travel-friendly alternatives:

• Theragun Mini: Small enough to fit in a daypack, this version still delivers solid percussion therapy with a quieter motor. Perfect for planes, hotel rooms, or quick relief at the gate.
• Manual massage balls or peanut rollers: No batteries, no noise, no hassle. Ideal for targeted pressure-point release while traveling light.
• Massage sticks or foot rollers: Great for road trips or long-haul flights — especially if you’re tight on space or traveling with just a backpack.

For some travelers, smaller and simpler is the way to go — especially when moving fast, light, or off-grid.

How to Pack a Theragun for Travel

Here’s how to pack your Theragun so it’s safe, secure, and easy to access:

• Use the original case or a padded pouch: It protects the motor and battery from impact or rough handling.
• Pack attachments and charger neatly: Group them in a small pouch or ziplock bag. Keep cables organized — they’re easy to misplace mid-transit.
• Label it if needed: If your device looks unfamiliar or techy, a clear label or product card can help during screening.
• Keep it near the top of your bag: If TSA wants to inspect it, you don’t want to unpack your entire bag just to reach it.

Also, avoid placing it next to snacks or liquids — it helps prevent unnecessary delays during screening when agents are sorting through your stuff.

Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can Bring a Theragun — Just Know the Limits

So, can you bring a Theragun on a plane? Yes — and for frequent flyers, athletes, or travelers with chronic tension, it can be a game-changer. Just remember:

• Pack it in your carry-on (never in checked luggage with the battery attached)
• Know your airline and destination’s battery rules
• Be courteous about when and where you use it

Whether you’re easing post-flight tightness or prepping for a long trek, a Theragun is a solid travel companion — one that fits into your routine, your backpack, and your carry-on. Just bring it smart, and let it do what it does best: help you feel better, wherever you are.