Can You Take a Power Bank onto a Plane? 8 Important Things You Need to Know

10 December 2024

Can you take a power bank onto a plane? This guide covers all you need to know about flying with power banks. It includes size restrictions, where to pack them, and how to avoid security issues at the airport.

Introduction

A power bank is an essential travel companion in today’s technology-driven world. Whether you need to charge your phone, camera, or laptop while travelling, staying powered up is a must. But carrying a power bank means following strict rules for air travel.

Can You Take a Power Bank onto a Plane – 8 Things You Need to Know

1. Why Are Power Banks Regulated on Planes?

The primary reason for battery restrictions is safety. Airlines regulate power banks on flights. They have lithium-ion batteries. They are efficient but can be dangerous. These batteries are safe in most situations. But they can overheat, especially if damaged or made with low-quality parts. In extreme cases, they may even cause fires or explosions.

Risks Associated with Power Banks include:

Thermal Runaway: This occurs when a battery overheats and ignites. It cannot cool itself down.
Short Circuits: A short circuit can occur if a power bank’s exposed terminals touch metal.
Physical Damage: Dropped or crushed power banks may overheat.

To prevent these risks, aviation authorities have strict rules on carrying lithium-ion batteries, including power banks. These authorities include the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

2. Can You Take a Power Bank onto a Plane?

The Simple Answer: Yes, but follow the rules

You can bring a power bank onto a plane but must adhere to specific regulations. These rules ensure the safety of passengers and the plane.

Key Rules for Carrying Power Banks:

Only in Carry-On Luggage: You must not pack power banks in checked baggage. If a fire occurs in the cargo hold, it is harder for crew members to access and manage.
Size Restrictions Apply: Power banks over a certain capacity are not allowed. Others may need special approval.
Maximum Number of Power Banks: Many airlines limit passengers to two power banks.

3. Understanding Power Bank Sizes

One of the most critical factors when flying with a power bank is its size, measured in watt-hours (Wh). This differs from milliampere-hours (mAh), a more familiar consumer term. But what is the difference?

Watt-hours (Wh): This measures the total energy a battery can store. It’s the standard unit airlines use to determine size limits.
Milliamp-hours (mAh): This measures the charge a battery can hold. It’s commonly seen on power banks and small devices.

How to Convert mAh to Wh

The formula for converting mAh to Wh is: Wh = (mA× Voltage) ÷ 1000

Since most power banks operate at a voltage of 3.7V, here are some examples:

10,000mAh Power Bank: (10,000 × 3.7) ÷ 1000 = 37Wh
20,000mAh Power Bank: (20,000 × 3.7) ÷ 1000 = 74Wh
30,000mAh Power Bank: (30,000 × 3.7) ÷ 1000 = 111Wh

4. What size power bank is allowed on a flight?

This is a crucial question because airlines have different battery rules and restrictions. Not knowing these rules may lead to the confiscation of your devices or power banks at the airport.

Let’s review the typical battery limits for flights. We’ll focus on power banks and spare batteries.

Power Banks Up to 100 Wh

Most smartphones, tablets, and smaller power banks fall into this category.

Allowed in carry-on baggage: Yes
Allowed in checked baggage: This is not recommended but might be allowed if installed on a device.
Maximum quantity: There is usually no specific limit as long as you carry a reasonable amount (2-3 spare batteries or power banks).

Power banks up to 100 Wh are generally safe to carry and meet most airline regulations.

Power Banks Between 100 Wh and 160 Wh

Larger power banks and batteries for certain high-capacity devices, such as gaming laptops or some camera gear, often fall within this range.

Allowed in carry-on baggage: You must get airline approval.
Allowed in checked baggage: No, unless it’s part of medical or safety equipment and approved by the airline.
Maximum quantity: Check with the airline for confirmation.

Power Banks Over 160 Wh

These high-capacity batteries are typically used for specialised equipment like electric bikes or professional film gear.

Allowed in carry-on baggage: Generally, only allowed if you have special permission from the airline.

Allowed in checked baggage: No, unless it’s part of medical or safety equipment and has been approved by the airline.
Maximum quantity: Usually limited to one, and only with special arrangements.

5. Where to Pack Your Power Bank

Hand Luggage Only

All power banks must be packed in your hand luggage. This rule is non-negotiable across all airlines. The reasoning behind this is simple:

Accessibility: If your power bank fails during the flight, cabin crew can respond quickly.
Risk Management: The cargo hold is less accessible and harder to monitor. This increases the risk of a fire spreading if one occurs.

Packing Tips:

Put your power bank in a case or a pocket. This will prevent damage or accidental activation.
Keep power banks separate from items like keys or coins, which can cause short circuits.

Don’t use plastic bags to store power banks. They don’t protect them enough.

6. What Happens if You Put a Power Bank in Checked Luggage?

If you accidentally pack a power bank in your checked bag, security is likely to flag it during screening. Here’s what might happen:

Request for Removal: Security agents may ask you to remove and carry the power bank in your hand luggage.
Bag Delays: The airline may not load your checked bag onto the plane until you remove the power bank.
Confiscation: In some cases, authorities may confiscate the power bank if it doesn’t meet regulations.

To avoid these situations, make sure you don’t have power banks in your check-in luggage.

7. Labelling Requirements

Power banks without clear labelling for capacity and voltage may be confiscated. To avoid problems:

Ensure your power bank is clearly marked with its capacity (in mAh or Wh).
If the labelling is worn off, replace it or carry proof of specifications, such as the product manual.

8. Types of Power Banks Not Allowed

Some power banks are completely banned from air travel. These include:

Damaged Power Banks: Any power bank showing signs of swelling, leaking, or other damage is unsafe.
DIY or Modified Power Banks: Homemade or modified batteries are high-risk. They will not pass security checks.
Unlabelled Power Banks: Devices without capacity markings are banned. They can’t be verified for compliance.

How to Choose the Best Power Bank for Travel

When purchasing a power bank for air travel, consider the following:

Capacity: Opt for a power bank under 100Wh for hassle-free travel. For phones and small devices, a 10,000–20,000mAh model is ideal.
Size and Weight: Compact and lightweight models are easier to pack.
Safety Features: Choose power banks with CE, FCC, or RoHS certifications. They ensure safety standards are met.
Port Options: Choose a power bank with multiple USB ports if you need to charge several devices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Power Bank During the Flight?

Yes, you can use your power bank to charge devices mid-flight. But some airlines restrict the use of electronic devices during take-off and landing.

What If I Forget to Declare My Power Bank?

If you forget to declare a large-capacity power bank, security might confiscate it. To avoid this, always check airline rules before travelling.

Are Power Banks with Built-In Cables Allowed?

Yes, if the power bank meets the watt-hour limits and safety rules.

Conclusion

Taking a power bank onto a plane is generally straightforward if you follow the rules. Always pack your power bank in your hand luggage. Ensure it meets size restrictions. Check with your airline if you have a larger device. With some preparation, you can stay powered up and ready for your adventures without any airport headaches.

Knowing and following these rules will help you avoid delays or confiscations. They will ensure a smooth travel experience. Safe travels!

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About: Lisa Bundesen

Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.

We would love you to join us on our journeys and hope that our adventures give you encouragement to explore this amazing world.

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