Power banks must go in your carry-on, never in checked bags. Under US FAA rules, power banks up to 100 watt-hours are allowed without approval, those between 100 and 160 Wh need airline approval (usually a maximum of two), and anything over 160 Wh is not allowed. A typical 20,000 mAh power bank is about 74 Wh, well under the limit. Some airlines now also restrict using or charging power banks during the flight, so check your airline's rules.
Power banks are one of the most useful travel gadgets, and one of the most regulated. Here are the rules and how to read your power bank’s label.
The core rules
These follow US FAA guidance, which matches the rules most airlines use worldwide:
| Battery size | Rule |
|---|---|
| Up to 100 Wh | Allowed in carry-on, no approval needed |
| 100 to 160 Wh | Airline approval required, usually a maximum of two spares |
| Over 160 Wh | Not allowed as a spare battery |
And for every power bank:
- Carry-on only. Never pack spare lithium batteries in checked bags.
- Protect the terminals from short circuits, for example by keeping the power bank in a pouch and away from metal objects.
Reading the label
Power banks are sold by mAh, but the rules use watt-hours (Wh). Most power banks print the Wh rating on the case. If yours only shows mAh, convert it:
Wh = mAh x V / 1,000
Use the cell voltage, usually 3.6 or 3.7 V.
| Capacity | Approximate Wh (at 3.7 V) | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 mAh | 37 Wh | Allowed |
| 20,000 mAh | 74 Wh | Allowed |
| 26,800 mAh | 99 Wh | Allowed, close to the limit |
| 30,000 mAh | 111 Wh | Needs airline approval |
Power banks without a readable rating may be confiscated, so choose models with clear markings.
In-flight use
Rules on using power banks during the flight have tightened. Some airlines ban using or charging power banks on board, some require them to stay visible rather than in an overhead bin, and some limit how many you can carry. Check your airline’s battery page before you fly, especially for international trips.
Choosing a travel power bank
- Stay under 100 Wh (about 26,000 mAh) to avoid approvals.
- USB-C Power Delivery charges phones and many laptops quickly.
- Pass-through charging lets you charge the bank and a device from one wall plug overnight.
- Clear capacity markings on the case.
- Size and weight: 10,000 mAh covers a day of phone use for most people and fits a pocket.
Other batteries
The same carry-on rule applies to spare camera batteries and other spare lithium batteries. Devices with batteries installed, such as phones and laptops, can travel in the cabin, and should be switched off if checked.
Common questions
Can I put a power bank in checked luggage?
No. Spare lithium batteries, including power banks, must travel in carry-on baggage so that any fire can be dealt with in the cabin.
Is a 20,000 mAh power bank allowed on a plane?
Yes, in most cases. At a typical 3.7 V cell voltage, 20,000 mAh is about 74 Wh, under the 100 Wh limit. Check the Wh rating printed on the power bank.
How do I convert mAh to Wh?
Multiply the mAh by the voltage, then divide by 1,000. For example, 26,800 mAh x 3.7 V / 1,000 = about 99 Wh.
Can I use a power bank during the flight?
It depends on the airline. Several airlines now ban or restrict using or charging power banks in flight, or require them to stay visible. Check your airline's battery policy before you fly.