If you travel often or plan a trip, you may ask: Can you bring a power bank on a plane? Rules change, so you need to know them before you go. This guide will explain the rules, what airlines allow, and how to make your trip easy.
Are Power Banks Allowed on Planes?
Yes, but there are rules. Power banks have lithium-ion batteries, which may cause fires if not handled right. TSA and airlines have rules to make sure they are safe.
TSA & Airline Rules for Carrying Power Banks
These are the main rules you should follow:
1. Power Banks Must Be in Carry-On Bags – TSA does not allow power banks in checked bags. You must keep them in your carry-on or personal bag.
2. Battery Capacity Limits – The size of the battery matters. Most airlines follow these rules:
- Power banks under 100Wh are allowed without limits.
- Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh need airline approval.
- Power banks over 160Wh are not allowed.
3. Limit on Number of Power Banks – Airlines usually let you carry two power banks, if they follow the size rules.
4. Power Banks Must Be for Personal Use – You cannot bring power banks to sell or give to others.
5. Exposed Terminals Must Be Covered – Ports must be covered so they do not cause short circuits. You can use a cover or case.
How to Calculate Watt-Hours (Wh) of Your Power Bank
If your power bank lists mAh (milliamp-hours), use this formula to get Wh:
Wh = (mAh ÷ 1000) × Voltage (V)
Example: If you have a 20,000mAh power bank with 3.7V, then:
(20,000 ÷ 1000) × 3.7 = 74Wh
Since 74Wh is under 100Wh, this power bank is allowed in your carry-on.
Best Power Banks for Travel That Are TSA-Approved
Pick a power bank that follows airline rules and charges your devices well. These are good choices:
1. 3-in-1 Power Bank Portable Charger Hand Warmer Mirror
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Capacity: 10,000mAh (37Wh)
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Good for Travel: It is small, easy to carry, and has a hand warmer and mirror. It follows TSA rules.
2. Anker PowerCore 20100
- Capacity: 20,100mAh (74Wh)
- Good for Travel: It is light, charges fast, and follows all TSA rules.
3. RAVPower 16750mAh
- Capacity: 16,750mAh (61.97Wh)
- Good for Travel: It is small, charges fast, and follows airline rules.
Tips for Traveling with Power Banks
To make things easy at the airport, follow these tips:
1. Check Airline Rules Before You Fly – TSA rules are common, but some airlines have extra rules. Look them up before you go.
2. Keep Power Banks in Your Bag – Since they are not allowed in checked bags, put them in your carry-on.
3. Use a Small Organizer for Cables & Devices – This helps during security checks and keeps your items safe.
4. Do Not Bring Damaged Power Banks – Security may not allow broken or unsafe power banks.
5. Be Ready to Show Your Power Bank at Security – If asked, you should know your power bank’s size.
6. Charge Your Devices Before You Go – Some airports do not allow charging inside planes, so charge before you board.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make with Power Banks
Avoid these mistakes to save time and trouble:
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Putting a Power Bank in Checked Bags – This is not allowed. Security may take it out or delay your flight.
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Bringing a Power Bank That Is Too Big – If it is over the airline’s limit, you cannot bring it.
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Bringing Too Many Power Banks – You should only bring two power banks per person.
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Not Checking Airline Rules – Some airlines may have different limits, so check before you go.
