Portable chargers have become essential travel items, ensuring your devices stay powered during flights and layovers. But can you bring portable chargers on planes without facing any issues at security checkpoints or boarding gates? This comprehensive guide outlines the rules and best practices so you can travel with confidence.
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Can You Bring Portable Chargers on Planes? Quick Answer
Yes, you can bring portable chargers on planes, but only in your carry-on baggage. Aviation authorities, including the FAA and IATA, prohibit placing portable chargers in checked luggage due to fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Most airlines allow chargers with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours (Wh). Chargers that exceed this limit may require special approval or be entirely restricted, depending on the airline.
Checked vs. Carry-On: Where to Pack Your Charger
You are not allowed to pack portable chargers in checked baggage. Lithium-ion batteries can overheat or combust, especially in pressurized compartments. Since checked baggage is inaccessible during the flight, the risk is higher.
Place your portable charger in your carry-on bag or personal item, like a backpack or purse. This ensures safety and easy access when you need to charge your phone, tablet, or headphones during the flight.
Understanding Battery Capacity Limits
To follow airline guidelines, it’s important to know your charger’s watt-hour (Wh) rating. If it’s not listed, you can calculate it using this formula:
Wh = (mAh × V) ÷ 1000
Examples:
10,000 mAh at 3.7V = 37 Wh
20,000 mAh at 3.7V = 74 Wh
26,800 mAh at 3.7V = 99.16 Wh
Most consumer-grade chargers are well below the 100 Wh limit and are perfectly safe for travel. If your charger is between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you must get airline approval. Devices over 160 Wh are not permitted.
Can You Bring Portable Chargers on Planes Without Labels?
Airports and airline staff may inspect your charger. If your device doesn’t have visible battery information, such as mAh or voltage, it could be confiscated. To avoid issues, carry chargers that are:
Clearly labeled
Manufactured by reputable brands
Certified with safety markings like CE, UL, or RoHS
In good condition (no bulging, fraying, or damage)
Avoid using cheap or off-brand power banks that lack essential safety details.
Rules for International Flights
When flying internationally, the same general rules apply, especially on major carriers. However, some countries and airlines have additional restrictions on:
Check your airline’s website or contact customer support if you’re traveling abroad with high-capacity chargers.
Can You Bring Portable Chargers on Planes for Long Trips?
Absolutely. Long-haul flights are one of the best times to carry a portable charger. In-seat USB ports are not always reliable or fast, and crowded airport lounges may not have available outlets.
To stay connected, opt for a high-capacity charger under 100 Wh. Charge it fully before your trip, and carry a compatible charging cable in your carry-on.
Safety Tips for Flying with Power Banks
To safely travel with a power bank, follow these tips:
Always pack it in your carry-on
Use only approved and labeled chargers
Don’t use or charge the power bank during takeoff or landing
Avoid exposure to water, heat, or cramped storage
Ensure smart luggage batteries are removable
If you’re carrying smart luggage with a built-in battery, make sure the battery can be removed. Otherwise, you might not be allowed to board with it.
Airline-Specific Policies
Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, United, Emirates, and Qatar Airways generally follow FAA and IATA guidelines. Still, it’s wise to:
Review the battery policy on your airline’s website
Limit yourself to two power banks per person
Contact the airline ahead of time for devices over 100 Wh
Policies vary slightly, and it’s better to be cautious than risk having your charger confiscated.
Conclusion
So, can you bring portable chargers on planes? Yes—but with conditions. Here’s what you need to remember:
Only pack chargers in carry-on luggage
Stay within the 100 Wh battery limit
Avoid damaged or unlabeled devices
Confirm rules for international or connecting flights
Whether you’re traveling for work or vacation, a portable charger ensures that your devices remain powered throughout your trip. Just follow airline rules and safety guidelines to travel worry-free.
Can you bring a portable charger on your carry-on?
Yes, you can bring a portable charger (power bank) in your carry-on baggage. In fact, this is the only permitted way to carry portable chargers on a plane. Chargers must be powered by lithium-ion batteries under 100 watt-hours (Wh) for automatic approval. Larger capacities may require airline permission
Can I bring a portable charger in luggage?
No, you cannot place a portable charger in checked luggage. Airlines and aviation authorities like the FAA prohibit lithium-ion batteries in the cargo hold due to fire risk. All power banks must go in your carry-on or personal item (like a backpack or purse).
What is the maximum power bank allowed on planes?
The standard maximum power bank capacity allowed without approval is 100 watt-hours (Wh). 1- Between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you need airline approval. 2- Over 160 Wh, portable chargers are not allowed on board—either in carry-on or checked bags. Most consumer power banks (10,000–26,800 mAh) fall below 100 Wh and are allowed.
Why is a portable charger not allowed on a flight?
Portable chargers contain lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat, leak, or even catch fire. When stored in checked baggage, these risks go unnoticed and cannot be managed in-flight. That’s why they’re only allowed in carry-on baggage, where crew can act quickly if needed.
Jerry is an avid tech enthusiast. He loves to read about new innovations and technologies as well as share his thoughts on what he finds. He has a degree in English from the University of South Florida, but spends most of his time writing about technology rather than reading literature.
