Which Power Bank Can You Take on a Flight? – What Capacity is Allowed?

Power banks are incredibly convenient for travellers, allowing you to charge your phone or tablet away from home without searching for a socket. However, when it comes to air travel, not all power banks are treated equally.

Airlines often enforce strict restrictions on the types and capacities of batteries you can bring on board, and power banks are no exception. Understanding these regulations helps ensure a smooth journey without unwanted surprises at security.

Can You Take a Power Bank on a Plane?

Carrying power banks on flights is permitted, but there are several basic rules to remember. For safety reasons, you must keep your power bank in your hand luggage and never pack it in checked baggage.

Airlines have specific capacity limits, and larger power banks may require approval. To ensure a trouble-free journey, always verify your airline's guidelines before travelling.

Travelling with Power Banks

Travelling with power banks is essential for many people, so knowing the regulations can help avoid problems at the airport. To common questions like "which power bank can I take on a flight?" or "is 20,000 mAh allowed?", the answers depend on airline policies and capacity limits.

1. Power Bank Capacity Limits on Flights

How large a power bank can you take on a plane? Power banks up to 100 Wh (approximately 27,000 mAh) are generally permitted in hand luggage without special approval.

If the capacity falls between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you typically need to obtain airline approval before bringing it on board. Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are usually prohibited from being carried on aircraft.

2. Hand Luggage Only

Power banks must be carried in hand luggage, and transporting them in checked baggage is prohibited. This rule exists due to the potential fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries, which can be better monitored in the cabin.

3. Quantity Restrictions

Most airlines allow passengers to carry up to two power banks between 100 Wh and 160 Wh. Those under 100 Wh typically have more generous limits, though policies vary by carrier.

How to Check if Your Power Bank is Flight-Approved

By ensuring your power bank is approved for air travel, you can avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport. Follow these steps to verify compliance:

1. Check the Capacity

Look at the label or specification of your power bank to check its capacity in watt-hours (Wh). Most airlines allow power banks up to 100 Wh without special permission.

If you're looking for airline-approved power banks, consider the following portable chargers with different capacities.

10,000 mAh Power Bank

The Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K) has a large 10,000 mAh capacity, allowing you to fully charge an iPhone 15 Pro up to 1.8 times. One of its standout features is Qi2 wireless charging with 15W MagSafe-compatible technology, enabling cable-free charging by simply attaching it to your device.

This power bank combines practicality and convenience, making it an ideal choice for users who need a reliable power source whilst travelling.

20,000 mAh Power Bank

The Anker Power Bank (20K, 87W, Built-in USB-C Cable) is equipped with 3 ports, including a built-in USB-C port, allowing you to charge up to 3 devices simultaneously.

25,000 mAh Power Bank for Multiple Devices

If your laptop or phone battery runs out and you're stuck at the airport, try the Anker Laptop Power Bank (25,000 mAh, 165W, Built-in Cable). This high-capacity power bank is perfect for travellers who need to charge multiple devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

2. Check Airline Regulations

Each airline has its own rules regarding power banks, so be sure to check their specific guidelines. Visit the airline's website or contact customer service for detailed information about permitted capacities and quantities.

3. Consult Aviation Authorities

Familiarise yourself with guidelines from aviation authorities, such as the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) or the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), to understand general regulations for carrying power banks. These organisations provide standardised safety information that most airlines follow.

Best Practices for Carrying Power Banks on Flights

To ensure a comfortable journey with your power bank, always follow best practices regarding regulatory compliance and safety:

• Keep it in hand luggage — always pack your power bank in hand luggage, never in checked baggage.
• Check capacity limits — verify your power bank's capacity in watt-hours (Wh) and ensure it complies with airline regulations.
• Learn quantity restrictions — find out how many power banks one passenger can carry. Typically, you can take up to two larger power banks (100–160 Wh), but always confirm with your specific airline.

What Happens if You Exceed the Allowed Power Bank Limits?

Exceeding the permitted power bank limits can result in various consequences at the airport. Understanding these outcomes will help you avoid problems:

• Confiscation at security — if your power bank exceeds the allowed limit, it may be confiscated by airport security. This means losing your device before boarding.
• Denied boarding — in some cases, exceeding the limit may result in being denied boarding if you cannot adjust your luggage to comply with regulations.
• Fines and penalties — some airlines or countries may impose fines or penalties for carrying a power bank with a capacity exceeding the established safety limits.

Conclusion

Understanding the rules for carrying power banks is key to a successful journey. Always check what power bank capacity is allowed during flights and comply with your airline's specific regulations. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind, knowing your devices will stay charged throughout your trip.

FAQs

Is a 20,000 mAh power bank allowed on flights?

Yes, a 20,000 mAh power bank can be taken on board an aircraft. However, it must be packed in hand luggage. You are not allowed to place portable chargers in checked baggage for safety reasons.

Is a 50,000 mAh power bank allowed on flights?

A 50,000 mAh power bank is typically not allowed on flights due to its large capacity. Aviation authorities, such as EASA and CAA, set strict limits to ensure passenger safety, and capacities exceeding 160 Wh (approximately 43,000 mAh) are generally prohibited.

What is the largest power bank allowed on a plane?

The maximum power bank capacity allowed on most flights is 160 Wh, which equates to approximately 43,000 mAh. Power banks within this range usually require airline approval before boarding, whilst those under 100 Wh can typically be carried without special permission.

What happens if you put a power bank in checked baggage?

Placing a power bank in checked baggage can lead to several problems, as most airlines and safety regulations prohibit this practice. If discovered, your baggage may be opened and the power bank removed, potentially causing delays or confiscation. Always carry power banks in your hand luggage.