You can bring a power bank on a plane, but only in your carry-on baggage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) classify power banks as spare lithium-ion batteries, and they are prohibited in checked luggage due to fire risk. Understanding the watt-hour limits, how to find your battery’s rating, and how to pack it safely will help you avoid problems at security and keep your devices charged during travel.
Carry-On Only
The FAA requires that all spare lithium batteries, including power banks, be carried in your carry-on baggage. This rule applies to both lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries. The reasoning is that a battery fire in the passenger cabin can be spotted and extinguished quickly, while a fire in the cargo hold is much harder to reach. You must not place power banks in checked suitcases or bags.
If you travel with a power bank, keep it accessible in your personal item or carry-on bag. Security screeners may ask you to remove it from your bag for separate screening, similar to laptops. For the latest official guidance, check the FAA PackSafe page on lithium batteries and the TSA What Can I Bring tool before you fly.
The Watt-Hour Limits
Power banks are rated by watt-hours (Wh), which measures the total energy capacity. The FAA sets clear limits based on this rating:
- Up to 100 watt-hours: Allowed in carry-on without special approval. This covers the vast majority of consumer power banks. You can bring as many as you need, as long as they fit in your carry-on and are for personal use.
- 101 to 160 watt-hours: Allowed only with airline approval. You may carry a maximum of two such batteries. Contact your airline before travel to obtain permission.
- Over 160 watt-hours: Not allowed in passenger baggage under any circumstances. Passengers may not carry them in carry-on or checked bags.
These limits apply per battery. If you carry multiple power banks, each must meet the limit. Airlines may have stricter policies, so always verify with your carrier.
The table below summarizes the FAA rules for spare lithium batteries and power banks:
| Watt-Hour Rating | Carry-On Allowed | Checked Baggage | Airline Approval Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–100 Wh | Yes | No | No |
| 101–160 Wh | Yes (max 2) | No | Yes |
| Over 160 Wh | No | No | N/A |
How to Find Watt-Hours on Your Power Bank
Most power banks display their capacity in milliampere-hours (mAh) rather than watt-hours. To convert, use this formula: watt-hours = (mAh × volts) ÷ 1,000. The voltage of a typical power bank is usually 3.7 volts (the internal cell voltage) or 5 volts (the USB output). For safety calculations, use the cell voltage, which is almost always printed on the device.
For example, a power bank labeled 20,000 mAh at 3.7V has a watt-hour rating of (20,000 × 3.7) ÷ 1,000 = 74 Wh. This is well under the 100 Wh limit. A 30,000 mAh battery at 3.7V gives 111 Wh, which would require airline approval. Always check the label for both mAh and voltage. If only mAh is listed, look for a small “V” number nearby. When in doubt, a common rule of thumb is that any power bank under 27,000 mAh at 3.7V is under 100 Wh, but you should confirm the exact rating.
If you cannot find the watt-hour rating or the voltage, do not bring the power bank on the plane. It is safer to purchase a clearly labeled model. For a wide selection of compliant power banks, look for ones that clearly state both mAh and Wh on the packaging or device.
Protecting Batteries in Your Bag
To prevent short circuits and potential fires, you must protect the terminals of your power bank and any other spare batteries. The FAA recommends the following precautions:
- Keep the power bank in its original retail packaging, if available.
- Place each battery in a separate plastic bag or a dedicated battery case.
- Cover the terminals with non-conductive tape (e.g., electrical tape) to prevent contact with metal objects like coins, keys, or other batteries.
- Store the power bank in a pocket of your carry-on where it cannot shift around and come into contact with metal items.
Many travelers find it convenient to keep their power bank in a padded electronics organizer or a dedicated battery pouch. This also helps you quickly access it during security screening. For more tips on organizing your carry-on, see our Carry-On Essentials Checklist. If you are preparing for a long flight, you may also want to review our Long Flight Essentials guide for other items that help you stay comfortable and charged.
Airlines Can Be Stricter
While the FAA sets the baseline rules, individual airlines may impose stricter limits. Before you fly, check your airline’s website for its policy on lithium batteries and power banks. Common variations include:
- A limit on how many power banks each passenger may bring.
- Lower watt-hour limits than the FAA baseline.
- Rules about using, charging or stowing power banks during the flight.
If you are traveling internationally, also review the State Department traveler’s checklist and the CDC Travelers’ Health page for destination-specific advice. Always confirm with your airline before departure to avoid having your power bank confiscated at the gate.
Damaged or Recalled Batteries
Never bring a damaged, swollen, leaking, or recalled power bank onto an aircraft. Such batteries pose a serious fire hazard. If your power bank shows any signs of damage—bulging casing, excessive heat, or unusual odor—dispose of it properly before traveling. Many electronics stores and recycling centers accept lithium batteries for safe disposal. Do not throw them in the trash.
If you are unsure whether your power bank is subject to a recall, check the manufacturer’s website or the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) database. Recalled batteries are prohibited from air travel, even if they appear undamaged. When in doubt, leave it at home and buy a new, compliant power bank for your trip.
FAQ
Can I bring a power bank in my checked luggage?
No. Power banks and all spare lithium batteries are prohibited in checked baggage. They must be carried in your carry-on bag. This is a federal regulation for safety reasons.
How many power banks can I bring on a plane?
There is no set limit on the number of power banks you can bring, as long as each is under 100 watt-hours and all fit in your carry-on. For batteries between 101 and 160 watt-hours, you are limited to two and need airline approval. Batteries over 160 watt-hours are not allowed.
Do I need to take my power bank out of my bag at security?
TSA rules do not specifically require power banks to be removed from your bag, but you may be asked to do so, especially if it is large or blocks the X-ray image. To speed up screening, place your power bank in an outer pocket or a separate bin alongside your laptop and other electronics.
What happens if my power bank is over 100 watt-hours?
If your power bank is rated between 101 and 160 watt-hours, you must contact your airline before your flight to request approval. If approved, you may carry up to two such batteries. If you arrive at the airport without approval, the battery will likely be confiscated. Batteries over 160 watt-hours are never allowed in passenger baggage.
Traveling with a power bank is straightforward once you know the rules. Keep it in your carry-on, confirm its watt-hour rating, protect the terminals, and check your airline’s policy. By following these guidelines, you can stay powered throughout your journey without any security surprises. For a complete list of what to pack in your carry-on, refer to our Carry-On Essentials Checklist and our Long Flight Essentials guide.
