Last Updated: August 1, 2023
Can You Bring A Powerbank On A Plane? Your Essential Guide
If you’ve never flown with a power bank previously and you’re not sure what rules you need to follow, you’re definitely in the right place. I’ll tell you everything about flying with portable chargers, including how many power banks you can have in your bags!
Can you bring power banks in carry-on baggage or checked luggage, are there restrictions on the size and capacity of the chargers, and which power bank is the best for travel are just some of the questions I’ll answer in this detailed guide!
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Can You Bring A Powerbank on A Plane?
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely bring a power bank on a plane. Powerbanks are allowed inside the cabin but they’re not allowed in checked baggage, so if you’re planning to pack some sort of portable charger for your electronic devices, you better bring it on the plane!
Limitations on Size & Capacity of Powerbanks
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has some rules and regulations regarding lithium metal and lithium-ion batteries. For non-rechargeable batteries, it’s 2 grams of lithium per battery, and for a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it’s a maximum of 100 watt-hours (approximately 27,000 mAh).
It is possible to have a large lithium battery in your carry-on luggage (up to 160 watt-hours), but you need the airline’s approval, otherwise, they will likely confiscate it at the security checkpoint.
Additionally, TSA doesn’t really have a quantity limit for lithium batteries and portable chargers, so you could technically pack a suitcase full of them.
However, they do state that any spare batteries and power banks must be for the personal use of the passengers, and if you show up at security with 15 power banks, they will likely find you suspicious and think you’re trying to resell them for financial gain.
Best Powerbank for International Travel
I’ve been using the Anker PowerCore II for almost three years, and I’ve only got words of praise for it. It has a capacity of 20,000 mAh, which is enough to charge my smartphone four times. If your phone has a smaller battery capacity (mine’s 5000 mAh), you can probably get an extra charge or two from it.
Also, I haven’t really noticed a decline in the power bank’s capacity, despite almost daily use for the past three years.
What I like the most about this power bank is that it’s got two outputs for charging; a fast-charging 18W one, and a slower 12W output. Both are USB type-A outputs on my power bank, but there are plenty of newer models with USB type-C and other options.
Keep in mind that the PowerCore II is so old that it charges via a micro USB port, so you better stick with a newer model if you don’t want to carry three different cables around everywhere.
The only downside of this power bank is that it’s quite heavy, but that’s going to be the case with every 20,000 mAh external battery. The bigger the capacity, the heavier the power bank, and you’ll learn to live with it eventually. I’ve gotten used to the weight, plus the power bank is really compact and I’ve managed to fit it into some really small purses.
I’ve taken this power bank to probably half a dozen different countries, it’s been on road trips with me, on planes, boats, trains, and every other mode of transport. Also, not an outing goes by without someone asking me if I brought my power bank because they need to charge something.
Tips to Ensure the Safety of Your Powerbank During Travel
If I’m being perfectly honest with you, I’ve previously taken zero steps to ensure the safety of my power bank during travel. But I recognize I’m in the wrong here because power banks are sensitive to temperature and humidity, so if you’re in extremely hot or cold surroundings, the portable charger could malfunction.
It’s best to put it in a case and store it inside a dedicated pocket in your bag, so it doesn’t bounce around too much. It’s also smart to just take remove any cables from it when you’re not charging anything (something I honestly never do), and you should avoid stacking any heavy objects on top of the power bank.
Also, avoid storing it next to water, food, or any other liquids that could spill and get inside the opening of the portable battery. Most power banks have built-in safety features, so you don’t have to think too much about how you’re transporting the charger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are we allowed to bring multiple power banks on a plane?
You are allowed to bring multiple power banks on a plane, as long as each battery has a capacity of less than 100 watt hours, which is approximately 27,000 mAh. You will need airline approval to bring up to two power banks with a capacity of 101-160 watt hours (up to 43,000 mAh).
Is it required to declare my power bank at the security checkpoint?
If you’re traveling with a power bank that’s larger than 27,000 mAh, you will need to declare it because those power banks can only be brought on the plane with airline approval. I haven’t declared a smaller power bank at the security checkpoint, but I always take it out for the scanner.
Can I use my power bank during the flight?
Yes, you can use your power bank during the flight. Just keep your devices plugged in and let them charge, so you’re ready to take lots of photos and videos as soon as you land at your destination.
Do I need to fully charge my power bank before boarding the plane?
It’s recommended to fully charge the power bank before boarding the plane, but it is by no means necessary.
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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.
