Are power banks allowed on airplanes?

Many travelers share this concern, and it’s no wonder – with differing airline regulations, it can be challenging to know what’s allowed. Some have even been called back to the check-in counter for mistakenly leaving a power bank in their checked luggage—a stressful situation, especially abroad!

To help you avoid similar issues, we will discuss what’s permitted and restricted when traveling with power banks on airplanes.

In this article:

• Are Power Banks Allowed on Airplanes?
• What is the Allowed Power Bank Capacity?
• Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage
• Airline-Specific Guidelines
• Power Bank in Airplane Traveling Safety Tips
• Travel Smooth with Your Power Bank: Final Thoughts
• FAQs

Let’s get started!

Are Power Banks Allowed on Airplanes?

So, are power banks allowed on airplanes? Yes, power banks are generally permitted on airplanes, but there are important restrictions to keep in mind. Because they contain lithium-ion batteries, which pose a fire risk, airlines and aviation authorities have established strict rules about where they can be stored and how large they can be.

Are there TSA approved power bank?

Although the TSA doesn't endorse specific brands, your power bank should comply with watt-hour limits and be in good condition to meet TSA regulations.

Why Airlines Have Regulations

Lithium-ion batteries in power banks can overheat or, in rare cases, catch fire, especially if damaged or improperly handled. To minimize these risks, power banks are allowed only in carry-on baggage and must meet certain specifications.

General Airline Guidelines for Power Banks

• Carry-On Only: Power banks cannot be packed in checked baggage due to potential fire hazards.
• Capacity Limits: Most airlines permit power banks up to 100 watt-hours (Wh), which covers most consumer-grade models.
• Check Specific Airline Rules: Capacity limits can vary slightly by airline, so it’s wise to double-check before your flight.
• Battery Condition: Damaged or swollen batteries are strictly prohibited.

What is the Allowed Power Bank Capacity? 

Knowing the capacity of your power bank is essential, as airlines enforce strict watt-hour limits:

• Standard Limit: Power banks up to 100Wh are generally allowed without restriction. For reference, 100Wh is equivalent to about 27,000mAh for a typical power bank.
• Higher Capacity Banks: Some airlines allow power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh but may require prior approval.

Calculating Watt-Hours (Wh) for Power Banks

If watt-hours is not indicated on battery itself, calculate it by multiplying volts by amp-hours. To determine a power bank's watt-hours, you can use the following formula:

Wh=(mAh * V)/1,000Wh 

Where:

• mAh: The battery's milliamp hours.
• V: The battery's voltage.

Example Calculation: If a power bank has a capacity of 10,000 mAh and a voltage of 3.7 V, its watt-hours would be calculated as follows:

Wh=(10,000 * 3.7)/1,000=37Wh

You can also find the watt-hour rating printed on the battery itself or in the accompanying documentation.

Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage

Power banks are allowed only in carry-on luggage, not in checked bags. Packing them in checked luggage can result in retrieval requests from security, as happened to many travelers due to safety concerns.

Why This Matters: Packing a power bank in your carry-on allows you to access it if needed and avoids the risk of it overheating in the pressurized cargo hold. However, you cannot use or charge it onboard with some airlines, so confirm usage policies.

Airline-Specific Guidelines

Each airline has slightly different policies, and it’s helpful to be aware of a few common practices:

• Popular Airlines: Many major airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and British Airways follow the 100Wh rule. Some airlines, especially international carriers, may be more restrictive or ask you to carry the product’s manual for quick verification.
• Pre-Approval for Larger Power Banks: As mentioned, allowed power bank in airplane should be 100Wh. So, for power banks above 100Wh, confirm with the airline beforehand to avoid unexpected issues.
• Destination-Specific Rule: Don’t forget to check rules for your destination, as regulations may vary, and items allowed for your departure may be restricted on the return flight.

Power Bank in Airplane Traveling Safety Tips

To safely bring a power bank onboard, consider the following:

1. Keep Away from Metal Objects: Store in a separate pouch to avoid contact with metallic items.
2. Avoid Overcharging: Charge your power bank fully before the flight, but don’t charge it continuously.
3. Inspect for Damage: Ensure the battery is in good condition before packing.

Additional Considerations

• High-Capacity Models: These may need airline approval, especially if over 100Wh.
• Multi-Output or Solar Models: Additional features generally don’t affect regulations, but always store them properly in your carry-on.
• International Regulations: Regulations can differ by country, especially for international flights. Always check the latest rules.
• Emergency Situations: If your power bank is denied boarding, stay calm and ask security for guidance.
• Charging Options at Airports: Use caution with airport charging stations, as they can pose risks for devices. It’s advisable to use your own charging cable.
• Other Battery-Powered Devices: Regulations for laptops and tablets often align with those for power banks, so be aware of their rules.
• Consulting Airline Websites: Always check your airline's website or contact customer service for the latest information on power bank policies.
• Security Screening Tips: Be prepared for security checks; power banks may need to be taken out of your bag for inspection.

Travel Smooth with Your Power Bank: Final Thoughts

Knowing what power banks are allowed on airplanes, planning ahead, and packing properly can enhance your travel experience at the airport. To ensure a smooth journey with your power bank in airplane, follow these guidelines:

• Carry-On Only: All spare power banks and lithium batteries must be stored in your carry-on luggage.
• Capacity Limits: Keep your power banks below 100Wh for straightforward approval; those between 101-160Wh may require prior airline approval.
• Check Airline Rules: Some airlines have restrictions on in-flight charging or usage of power banks—verify these regulations before your trip.
• Safety First: Keep power banks away from metal objects and store them in a safe, accessible spot in your carry-on.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure your power bank is safe and ready for travel. Safe travels!

FAQs

Most airlines allow power banks up to 20,000mAh (around 100Wh), which is suitable for carry-on only.

Airlines typically restrict individual power banks to a maximum of 100Wh, with a limit of two power banks per passenger.

Due to the risk of overheating and fire, power banks are prohibited in checked baggage. This is why security staff frequently ask passengers to verify they’re not carrying any batteries in their checked bags.

Yes, you can bring power banks in your carry-on bags, but there are certain restrictions:

• Capacity: Power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) are generally permitted.
• Packaging: Power banks should not have removable batteries.
• Airline Guidelines: Always verify the specific capacity and packaging requirements with your airline.
• Damaged Batteries: Power banks that are damaged are not permitted.

Power banks cannot be placed in checked baggage due to safety concerns. The lithium-ion batteries they contain are sensitive to vibrations, mechanical damage, and high temperatures, which increases the risk of fire. They can leak or evaporate, further raising the potential for ignition.

While the TSA doesn’t officially approve specific brands of power banks, as long as your power bank complies with the watt-hour limits and is in good condition, it should meet TSA regulations.

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