Last Updated: August 1, 2023
Can I Bring 20000mAh Power Bank On A Plane? A Detailed Guide
Got a trip coming up and you’re not sure if you can fly with your 20,000 mAh power bank? Then you’ve come to the right place because this detailed guide will tell you everything you need to know about flying with juicy power banks!
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely bring a 20,000 mAh power bank on a plane, so if that’s all you wanted to know, you’re free to go pack. If you want to know a few other things about flying with large-capacity power banks and learn more about TSA’s rules and regulations, just keep reading because I’ve got you covered!
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Can I bring a 20000mAh Power Bank on a Plane?
Yes, you can bring a 20,000 mAh power bank on a plane without any issues. You can even use it at the airport and during the flight, and the only catch is that you’ll probably need to take it out at the security checkpoint, but even that depends on the specific airport.
I’ve flown with a 20,000 mAh power bank multiple times, and I’ve never once gotten a second glance from any of the security officials. I didn’t even have to take it out of the bag at security every time, but that will generally depend on the airport and the type of security screening they’re doing. I must point out that I’ve only flown in Europe with the power bank previously.
Is a 30000mah power bank allowed on international flights?
It depends on the airline. Power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours are allowed on all flights, and that’s equivalent to approximately 27,000 mAh. It’s still possible to travel with a power bank that has a capacity of 101-160 watt hours (up to 43,000 mAh), but you need to obtain approval from the airline.
I’ve never flown with a power bank larger than 100 watt-hours, so I can’t tell you from experience what’s necessary to obtain the approval. I assume it’s best to call or email the airline (written approval is always preferred) before the flight.
What is the largest power bank allowed on a plane?
The largest power bank you’re allowed to have on a plane can have a capacity of 160 watt-hours (approximately 43,000 mAh). You will need to obtain approval from the airline for such a large power bank.
If you have a portable charger with a capacity of 100 watt-hours (27,000 mAh) or smaller, you can bring it on the plane without having to ask for permission. You won’t even have to declare, but you will probably need to take it out of the bag at the security checkpoint.
How to Convert Milliamp Hours (mAH) to Watt-hours (Wh)
Converting milliamp hours to watt-hours (and vice versa) is simple and requires just a little bit of math. Also, you can use any online converter if you don’t want to bother with the legwork, such as this one.
To convert mAh to Wh, you will need to know the rating of the power bank in mAh and its voltage. Multiply the mAh by the battery voltage (V), and divide the number by 1000, and you’ll have the correct number in watt-hours.
mAh * V / 1000 = Wh
Alternatively, you can just read the label of your power bank. All the specs should be listed somewhere on it, usually at the bottom end where there are no output/input ports.
Is there a limit to the number of power banks you can bring on the plane?
The Transporation Security Administration states that passengers are allowed up to two large-capacity power banks that they can bring on the plane with the airline’s approval. So, if you’ve got power banks with a capacity of 27,000 mAh or larger, at most you’ll be able to bring two on the plane.
The TSA doesn’t have any restrictions on the quantity of smaller power banks that passengers are allowed to bring on a plane. However, the TSA does state that all power banks must be for personal use by the passengers. If you try to fly with a dozen or more power banks, the TSA could think you’re smuggling them to try and resell them for profit, confiscate the batteries, and fine you.
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About the Author Anna Timbrook
Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.
