Can You Take Phone Chargers in Hand Luggage on a Plane?

Can you take phone chargers in hand luggage? This is one of the most common questions people ask before flying for a vacation or a business trip. After all, your phone is your go-to device for everything from boarding passes to maps.

With changing airline policies and varying airport security checks, even experienced travelers can get confused about bringing phone chargers. Staying informed about the latest guidelines ensures a smooth travel experience, helping you avoid unnecessary delays and ensuring your devices are fully charged when needed most. In this article, we will explain what types of phone chargers are allowed, where to pack them, and how to make your travel day smoother.

alt: Can you take phone chargers in hand luggage

Can You Take Phone Chargers (Cables & Adapters) in Hand Luggage?

Do phone chargers belong in hand luggage or checked luggage? Charging cables and phone adapters don’t contain lithium batteries or hazardous materials, so they’re allowed in both types of luggage. However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends placing them in your hand luggage for easier access and to prevent loss or damage. Keeping them in your carry-on also helps streamline the security screening process and avoids unnecessary delays at the airport.

Can You Take Portable Phone Chargers (Power Banks) in Hand Luggage?

Many flyers still wonder: Can you pack phone chargers in hand luggage if they’re power banks? The answer is yes, with some rules. These handy devices contain lithium-ion batteries, which are classified as potentially hazardous if not handled correctly, especially under air travel conditions.

According to global air safety regulations, spare lithium batteries, including power banks or portable chargers, must be carried in hand luggage and are not permitted in checked baggage. This is because power banks can pose a fire risk. Keeping them in the cabin allows flight crews to act quickly if any issue arises.

What Are the Capacity Limits for Power Banks?

Before packing portable chargers in hand luggage, it’s important to understand the airline’s battery capacity limits. Most airlines follow safety guidelines that categorize batteries by watt-hour (Wh) ratings.

Batteries under 100 Wh (marked green) are fully allowed in carry-on baggage. These cover the majority of compact, travel-friendly power banks used for charging phones and other small devices.

If the battery ranges from 100 Wh to 160 Wh (marked yellow), it may still be allowed but only with prior approval from the airline and is typically limited to two units per person. You should contact your airline to confirm before flying.

Power banks over 160 Wh (marked red) are strictly prohibited on passenger airplanes altogether.

To help travelers choose wisely, here are two power bank options that align with airline safety guidelines while offering reliable charging performance.

Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K)

With a 10,000mAh capacity that falls well within airline carry-on limits, the Anker MagGo Power Bank is a great choice for light packers and frequent flyers. It delivers 15W Qi2-certified wireless charging—enough to get your iPhone 15 to 50% in under 45 minutes without reaching for a cable.  As one of the most convenient portable wireless charging power banks, it also features a built-in stand for hands-free use and a smart display for easy battery monitoring. Compact, practical, and flight-ready.

Alt：Anker maggo power bank

Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank

Offering a hefty 20,000mAh capacity while staying under the 100Wh limit required for air travel, the Anker Prime 20000mAh Power Bank provides serious charging power in a travel-approved size. With 200W total output across two USB-C and one USB-A port, it can fast-charge two laptops at once—ideal for business trips or long-haul flights. A 100W input recharges it fully in just over an hour, and the digital display helps you monitor power usage with ease.

alt: Anker prime 20000mah power bank

Can You Use a Phone Charger or Power Bank During the Flight?

Yes, you can use a phone charger or power bank during flights within the United States, and on many international routes as well. Most modern aircraft, especially in premium cabins, are equipped with USB charging ports or power outlets at your seat. Increasingly, even economy class seats offer these conveniences. If available, you can plug your phone charger directly into the in-seat outlet to power your device during the flight.

However, if no outlet is available, a power bank can also be used during the flight, but stricter safety rules apply. To reduce fire risks, airlines may require passengers to keep power banks in plain sight—such as on the tray table—instead of inside bags or pockets. This allows flight crews to respond quickly if the power bank overheats or malfunctions.

While most U.S.-based and international carriers allow the use of power banks, some airlines strictly prohibit their use or restrict how they are stored on board. Airlines such as Air Busan, EVA Air, China Airlines, Thai Airways, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, Starlux Airlines, Scoot, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific—prohibit the use of power banks on board and do not allow them to be stored in overhead bins.

Whether using a charger or a power bank, you may be asked to unplug or stow your electronic devices during taxiing, takeoff, and landing, and only resume use once the aircraft reaches cruising altitude.

Tips for Packing Phone Chargers and Power Banks

Packing your chargers and power banks the right way can help ensure a smooth trip:

1. Keep Chargers Easily Accessible

Pack your charging cables and adapters in a small pouch or tech organizer within your hand luggage. This not only prevents tangling but also helps you quickly retrieve them during security checks or mid-flight use.

2. Use a Dedicated Electronics Pouch

Consider using a compact case designed for electronics. These often come with multiple compartments to store cables, wall adapters, earphones, and even small power banks, minimizing the chance of forgetting something or damaging your gear.

3. Label Your Cables

If traveling with multiple people or devices, labeling your cables can help prevent mix-ups. Use small cable tags or color-coded ties to identify each one at a glance.

4. Check Airline-Specific Rules

While most airlines follow international guidelines, some carriers enforce stricter rules regarding power bank usage and storage. Always check your airline’s official website before departure to confirm the latest battery limits, restrictions, or required approvals for higher-capacity units.

5. 5. Pack Spare Power Banks Thoughtfully

If traveling with more than one power bank (especially if each is close to 100 Wh), verify that all of them fall within acceptable airline limits. Store them in separate parts of your carry-on, preferably in protective sleeves to avoid accidental activation or damage.

6. 6. Avoid Overstuffing Carry-On Bags

If your bag is crammed, devices and chargers may get crushed or damaged. Leave enough space for ventilation and easy access, especially for power banks, which must be visible and not buried deep inside your luggage.

Conclusion

So, can you take phone chargers in hand luggage? Absolutely yes, both standard chargers and portable power banks are allowed, with a few safety precautions. Make sure your items comply with airline rules and stay within power limits. Follow these guidelines, and you'll travel worry-free with your devices fully charged and ready to use.

FAQs

Can I carry my phone charger in my hand luggage?

Yes, you can carry your phone charger in your hand luggage without any issues. Charging cables and plug-in adapters don’t contain lithium batteries, so they’re permitted in both carry-on and checked bags. Most travelers prefer hand luggage for easy access during layovers or flights. Just pack them neatly to avoid delays during security screening.

Are phone chargers allowed in checked or carry-on?

Phone chargers, like USB cables and wall adapters, are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, portable phone chargers or power banks must be kept in your carry-on only, due to safety regulations. Airlines prohibit lithium batteries in checked bags because of fire risks, so always pack your power bank in your carry-on.

What electrical items are allowed in hand luggage?

You can carry phones, laptops, tablets, e-readers, power banks, and other small electronics in your hand luggage. Devices with lithium batteries must remain in carry-on bags, not checked luggage. Ensure all electronics are charged and packed neatly. Security may ask you to turn them on or inspect them separately during airport screening.