Power bank on a plane
- · Updated on , by Miquell Hellings
- 7 min read
Power bank on a plane
Yes, you can usually take a power bank on a plane, but normally only in your carry-on baggage. The most important limit is its capacity in Wh: up to 100 Wh is often no problem, between 100 and 160 Wh you usually need prior approval from the airline, and above 160 Wh a power bank is generally not allowed. Also check the rules on board, as they can differ between airlines. One practical tip: make sure the capacity is clearly readable on the power bank, as this often saves time and discussion at the security check. Also check the Complete guide to carry-on baggage dimensions. This quickly helps you understand what is allowed in the cabin.
Carry-on baggage, checked baggage and item type: how the rules differ
| Item type | In carry-on baggage | In checked baggage | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power bank or other loose lithium battery | Usually allowed | Normally not allowed | Pack it so you can show it quickly at security |
| Phone, tablet or laptop with a built-in battery | Usually allowed | Often treated differently from a loose battery. Always check the airline's rules | During an additional check, you may be asked to show the device separately |
| Regular charger, plug or cable without a battery | Usually allowed | Usually allowed too | Keeping everything neatly stored prevents hassle during the check |
The 100 Wh rule explained clearly
When flying, it is not only about mAh, but mainly about watt-hours, or Wh. This value shows how much energy a power bank stores. Loose lithium batteries and power banks usually follow this main rule: up to 100 Wh, you can generally take them in your carry-on baggage without any problems. If you are between 100 and 160 Wh, the airline often requires prior approval and there is usually also a limit on the number you can bring. Above 160 Wh, taking one with you is generally not allowed.
There is a good reason for this limit. Lithium cells can produce smoke or catch fire if they are damaged, overheated or short-circuited. In the cabin, the crew can respond more quickly than when a loose battery is in the hold. That is why power banks are treated more strictly than many other travel accessories. The difference between underseat and carry-on baggage does not change this: a power bank belongs in the cabin, not in the hold.
The Wh value is often shown directly on the power bank. If you only see mAh, you can use this formula: mAh divided by 1,000, multiplied by the nominal voltage in volts. A frequently searched example is 20,000 mAh. At a nominal voltage of 3.7 V, this comes to approximately 74 Wh. At 3.6 V, it is approximately 72 Wh. This type of power bank is therefore usually below the 100 Wh limit.
If the label is missing or unreadable, this can still cause problems. Even if your power bank is probably allowed, security may carry out an additional check or decide that you cannot take it with you if the capacity cannot be clearly verified.
During the security check and on board: what to expect
If security has doubts about your power bank, an additional check usually follows. You may be asked to take it out of your bag separately, show the label with the capacity or have the power bank scanned again. If the Wh value is unreadable, the device looks damaged or the capacity appears to be above the permitted limit, you may have to leave it behind.
The rules on board are not the same everywhere either. Some airlines allow you to use a power bank for small devices such as a phone, while other airlines restrict charging or active use during certain phases of the flight. Airlines may also tighten their policies after incidents. This means that something allowed on your previous flight may be treated differently on your next trip. Would you like to quickly see which requirements your airline has? Check the Overview of 40x30x20 rules per airline.
Also keep in mind that crew instructions always come first. If you are asked to store, disconnect or stop using your power bank, you must follow those instructions. That is why you should always check your airline's current information shortly before departure. This usually contains the latest details about loose batteries, use during the flight and any additional conditions for specific routes or aircraft.
How to pack your power bank safely for your trip
An allowed power bank can still cause delays if it is stored in an inconvenient or unsafe way. These tips will help you travel with much less worry.
- Prevent short circuits by keeping the power bank away from metal items such as keys, coins or loose adapters. A case, pouch or separate compartment helps protect the ports and connections.
- Do not take a damaged power bank with you. If it is swollen, has been wet, is discoloured, cracked or has become unusually hot, it is a safety risk and may be rejected during the check.
- Do not leave your power bank in extreme heat, such as in direct sunlight or in a hot car. High temperatures increase the risk of overheating and are also bad for the battery itself.
- Avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the device. Do not place it under heavy items or pack it tightly between hard objects when your carry-on baggage is completely full.
- Store it in an accessible compartment of your carry-on baggage or under the seat. What counts as a personal item on a plane? helps you determine what is allowed. This makes the security check faster and is also more practical if you need it during your journey.
- Preferably use a separate organiser or pouch for cables and electronics. This keeps everything together, so you do not have to empty your entire bag during the check.
Would you like to see what fits in 40x30x20 alongside your power bank and cables? Check What fits in 40x30x20 carry-on baggage?.
What should you look for when choosing a power bank for air travel?
For air travel, capacity is not the only important factor. It is also important that you can take the power bank with you easily and safely. Keep these points in mind when choosing a model.
- Choose a power bank with a clear Wh indication on the casing. When flying, this is often more important than an attractive design or a high mAh value, because security must be able to see immediately which limit it falls within.
- Stay well within the airline limit. For many travellers, around 10,000 mAh is a practical choice for day trips and short flights. A 20,000 mAh power bank can also be suitable, as long as the stated Wh value remains below the permitted limit.
- Consider the size and weight. A compact model fits more easily in a front pocket or organiser and is more convenient if you want to travel light with carry-on baggage only.
- Look at ease of use while travelling, such as USB-C, fast-charging support and a cable that is long enough to use comfortably at the airport, on the train or during a transfer.
- Avoid unbranded or questionable models. When flying, you want a power bank with clear specifications and a clear label, so you are less likely to face questions or have it rejected during the check.
- Also think about the bag you carry it in. Carry-on backpacks, laptop bags or travel bags with an easily accessible compartment make security and charging on the go much easier. Travelling with limited legroom? Choose Underseater bags 40x30x20, so your power bank stays under the seat and within easy reach. At ByMetz, we like to keep things practical, so your carry-on baggage is not only stylish but also smartly organised.