Charge Alert: What You Need to Know About Power Banks on Planes
Ever found yourself at the airport with a phone battery clinging to 1%, desperately hunting for a charger? We’ve all been there. Power banks are a godsend for travellers, until you realise airlines have strict rules about them. Get it wrong, and you could lose your battery or even miss your flight. At The Travel Tinker, we’re here to cut through the jargon and keep your trips hassle-free. Let’s unpack the do’s and don’ts of flying with power banks, from airline policies to pro safety tips. 🔋
Can You Bring Power Banks on Flights?
Yes, but there’s a catch. Most airlines let you carry them in hand luggage only, with strict limits on capacity. Here’s the lowdown…
Why Are Airlines So Strict About Power Banks?
Blame lithium-ion batteries. They’re brilliant for storing juice but can overheat (or, in rare cases, spark a fire! Look above, insane!). To avoid mid-air drama, aviation rules clamp down on how they’re carried, for obvious reasons.
Related Articles:
How to Get Through the Airport Quickly: Expert Tips for Savvy Travellers
Power Bank Rules by Major Airlines
(Updated: March 04, 2025)
| Airline | Hand Luggage? | Checked Bags? | Max Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Airways | Yes | No | 100Wh (no approval needed) |
| Ryanair | Yes | No | 100Wh |
| Emirates | Yes | No | 100Wh |
| American Airlines | Yes | No | 160Wh (with approval) |
| Singapore Airlines | Yes | No | 100Wh |
Rules can change, always double-check with your airline before flying.
More Guides, sure!
(Updated: March 04, 2025)
British Airways
- Cabin: Yes
- Checked: No
- Limit: 100Wh (without approval)
Ryanair
- Cabin: Yes
- Checked: No
- Limit: 100Wh (without approval)
Emirates
- Cabin: Yes
- Checked: No
- Limit: 100Wh (without approval)
American Airlines
- Cabin: Yes
- Checked: No
- Limit: 160Wh (with approval)
Singapore Airlines
- Cabin: Yes
- Checked: No
- Limit: 100Wh (without approval)
Note: Policies can change. Always check with your airline before flying.
More Guides, sure!
Understanding Power Bank Capacity Limits
Airlines measure batteries in watt-hours (Wh). To work yours out:
- Formula: (mAh ÷ 1000) × Voltage = Wh
- Example: A 20,000mAh, 5V power bank = (20,000 ÷ 1000) × 5 = 100Wh.
Most airlines cap it at 100Wh without prior approval, though some allow up to 160Wh if you ask nicely.
Basically don’t carry more than 20,000mAh
Recommended Power Bank!
Why I’m Obsessed with the INIU Power Bank (And Why You’ll Love It Too)
Let’s be real, we’ve all had that moment of panic when our phone dies mid-commute, halfway through a hike, or worse, while trying to snap that perfect sunset pic. Enter the INIU Power Bank, the little lifesaver I now refuse to leave home without.
First off, it’s stupidly easy to love, and slim enough to slip into my jeans pocket (seriously, the 10,000mAh model is thinner than most wallets) but still packs enough juice to revive your phone 2-3 times. Or go big with the Iniu 20,000mAh beast, it’s like carrying a charging station in your backpack, complete with super-fast charging speeds (22.5W, if we’re getting technical) so your devices go from “ugh, 1%” to “heck yes, let’s go!” in no time.
But here’s what really sold me: no more guesswork. The clear LED display shows exactly how much battery’s left, none of that “three blinking lights and a prayer” nonsense. Plus, with two USB ports, you can charge your phone, AirPods, and your friend’s dying device simultaneously (you’re basically a hero at this point).
And can we talk about the price? For under £24/ $30, it feels like cheating. Most gadgets this reliable cost twice as much, but INIU keeps it affordable without skimping on quality. I’ve taken mine everywhere, crammed into airport carry-ons, tossed into hiking bags, even surviving the bottom of my purse next to a leaky lip gloss, and it’s held up like a champ.
Where to Pack Your Power Bank
- Hand luggage only: Never stash it in checked bags, airport security will spot it. (checked bags are always scanned, and they will open them if they have to!)
- Keep it handy: You might need to whip it out during security checks.
- Use a case: Protect the terminals from scratches or accidental sparks.
How Many Can You Carry?
Usually two per person, as long as both are under 100Wh or 20,000mAh. Need more? Ring your airline first.
Power Bank Safety Tips for Air Travel
Flying with power banks isn’t complicated (even your grandma can have one!), but it does require some basic precautions. The last thing you want is your battery heating up mid-flight, causing unnecessary panic. To keep your travels stress-free and your devices fully charged, follow these essential safety tips:
Check airline policies before you fly. Regulations vary, so confirm your airline’s specific rules to avoid surprises.
Buy a high-quality power bank. Cheap, uncertified models can pose safety risks and may not be accepted on flights.
Charge your power bank before security screening. Some airports may ask you to turn it on to prove it’s functional.
Avoid extreme temperatures. Exposure to excessive heat or cold can reduce battery efficiency and increase safety risks.
Use the original charging cable. Third-party cables can lead to power surges and may not be as safe as manufacturer-approved ones.
Avoid damaged or swollen batteries. These could be confiscated.
Turn off your power bank during flight. To prevent accidental activation.
Use airline-approved brands. Some airlines prohibit uncertified or low-quality batteries.
Keep it in a fireproof bag. Extra protection in case of overheating.
What If Your Power Bank’s Too Big?
Airport security won’t hesitate to confiscate oversized batteries. Worse, you might even be denied boarding. Pro tip: If you’re carrying something beefier (up to 160Wh / 28,000mAh), contact your airline in advance for approval. Simple terms:
Confiscation: If your power bank exceeds the allowed capacity, airport security may confiscate it.
Denied Boarding: In extreme cases, carrying an oversized battery could lead to denied boarding.
Check with the Airline: Some airlines may allow larger power banks with pre-approval.
Using Your Power Bank Mid-Fligh
Most airlines are fine with it, but:
- Keep it small enough for hand luggage.
- Avoid using during takeoff/landing (crew might ask you to stow it).
- Skip dodgy cables, they’re a recipe for overheating.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Power banks are travel essentials (I always have it on me!), but airline rules are no joke. Check your battery’s specs, pack it in hand luggage, and play by the safety rules. At The Travel Tinker, we’re all about smooth travels, so keep this guide handy for your next adventure!
Your turn…
Had a power bank nightmare at security? Or a genius tip we’ve missed? Share your tales in the comments, we’re all ears!👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
Simliar Articles:
- Travel Etiquette: Your Guide to Being a Charming Globe-Trotter
- The Ultimate Long-Term Travel Prep: 20-Point Checklist
- Travel Essentials Checklist: Don’t Leave Home Without These!
Recommended Websites and Resources:
FAQs (Because You're Curious…)
Can I bung my power bank in my suitcase?
Nope. Checked bags are a no-go—it’s hand luggage or bust.
How do I know if my power bank’s allowed?
Check the Wh rating (usually printed on it) against your airline’s rules.
What if security nabs my power bank?
Tough luck—you won’t get it back. Always check regulations beforehand.
Can I bring multiple power banks?
Yep, typically two under 100Wh or 20,000 may each.
My power bank’s overheating—help!
Tell the crew immediately. Don’t douse it in water—use a fireproof bag if you’ve got one. They have a special fire proof box that they will put it in.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
You May Also Like
Save this post (pin it)
Share this post
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Author
Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! The Travel Tinker is a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel! Tinkering your plans as you browse!
Welcome!
It's Lovely to Meet You!
Get Social
Popular Posts
Join the Travel Tinker Family
Sign up with your email to receive step-by-step planning checklists, free guides, and a wealth of money-saving tips to help you plan your trip like an expert!
Search Flights
Find Accommodation
Other Resources
Destinations
Get Your Free Travel Starter Kit!
Sign up with your email to receive step-by-step planning checklists, free guides, and a wealth of money-saving tips to help you plan your trip like an expert!