If you've ever packed for a trip and wondered, Can I bring my power bank on the plane?, we have answers to your question. With devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops being essential travel companions, a portable power bank is a must have. But airlines have strict rules on lithium-ion batteries, and the last thing you want is to be stopped at  security

So, what portable power bank can you fly with?

Why Are There Restrictions on Power Banks?

Airline restrictions on power banks stem from safety concerns. Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat or catch fire under certain conditions. Because of this, aviation authorities and airlines enforce limits to prevent in-flight hazards.

Understanding the Power Limit: Wh vs. mAh

Most airlines measure battery capacity in watt-hours (Wh) rather than milliampere-hours (mAh), Here's how you can calculate it:

Wh=(mAh×V)÷1000

Since most power banks operate at 3.7V, here’s what that means in real numbers:

• 10,000mAh ≈ 37Wh (Safe for all flights)
• 20,000mAh ≈ 74Wh (Safe for all flights)
• 27,000mAh ≈ 99.9Wh (Maximum allowed without approval)
• Above 100Wh (Requires airline approval and limited to two per passenger)

Now, let’s look at the specific rules across different airlines.

Airline-Specific Power Bank Rules

General Guidelines from IATA

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) provides the baseline for most airlines:

1. Power banks under 100Wh → Allowed in carry-on luggage
2. Power banks between 100Wh - 160Wh → Require airline approval, limited to two per passenger
3. Power banks above 160Wh → Strictly prohibited

While these rules apply broadly, individual airlines have additional policies. Here’s a breakdown:

U.S. Airlines

• Delta Airlines: Passengers can carry up to 20 spare batteries, with a maximum of 100Wh each, Batteries between 100-160Wh require airline approval.
• American Airlines: Allows power banks in carry-on luggage but limits those between 100Wh - 160Wh to two per passenger.
• United Airlines: Follows IATA guidelines, no power banks allowed in checked luggage.

European Airlines

• Lufthansa: Only power banks under 100Wh can be brought on board without approval. Those above 100Wh require prior authorization.
• British Airways: Allows up to four power banks under 100Wh. Power banks between 100-160Wh are restricted to two per person.

Middle Eastern & Asian Airlines

• Emirates & Qatar Airways: Similar to IATA—power banks must be a carry-on luggage, and anything above 100Wh requires approval. 
• Singapore Airlines: Allows power banks up to 100Wh in both carry-on and checked baggage, but recommends keeping them in cabin luggage. If checked, they must be completely turned off.

Before traveling, always check your airline’s latest policies, as they may change depending on security regulations.

The Best Power Bank for Air Travel

Now that you know the rules, let’s talk about the best power bank to take on a flight.

A good travel-friendly power bank should:

• Be under 100Wh (to avoid approval hassles)
  
• Support USB-C fast charging for multiple devices
  
• Have multiple ports to charge different devices at once
  
• Be lightweight & compact for easy carry

Why VoltaGo Power Banks Are Perfect for Flying

Two power banks that fit the bill are:

VoltaGo Max (27,000mAh | 99.9Wh | 223W)

• TSA-approved for flights
• Dual USB-C & USB-A ports to charge multiple devices
• Ultra-fast 140W USB-C PD charging for MacBooks, iPads & gaming consoles
• Magnetic connection for effortless snap-and-charge

VoltaGo 10K (10,000mAh | 37Wh | 35W)

• Pocket-sized & lightweight
• Foldable prongs for built-in wall charging
• USB-C Power Delivery for fast charging on the go

VoltaGo - Magnetic Power Bank (10k mah)

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Both power banks comply with airline policies while delivering powerful performance for travelers who rely on their devices.

How to Pack Your Power Bank for Flights

To avoid issues at security, follow these tips:

1. Keep it in your carry-on bag (never checked luggage)
   
2. Store it in a protective case to avoid short circuits
   
3. Turn it off when not in use
   
4. Carry charging cables to avoid delays at security checks

FAQs: Flying with a Power Bank

1. Can I bring a power bank in checked luggage?

No. Airlines prohibit power banks in checked baggage due to fire risks. Always pack them in your carry-on.

2. What happens if my power bank is over 100Wh?

If your power bank is between 100-160Wh, you’ll need airline approval before traveling. If it’s above 160Wh, it’s not allowed on passenger flights.

3. Do power banks have to be removed at security?

Sometimes. Security agents may ask you to remove it from your bag for inspection, similar to laptops and tablets.

4. Can I charge my phone with a power bank during a flight?

Yes! Most airlines allow in-flight use of power banks, as long as they remain in your carry-on.

5. Do airlines allow wireless charging power banks?

Yes, but the same watt-hour restrictions apply. Wireless power banks should also not be in checked luggage.

6. What if I forget to take my power bank out of checked luggage?

If your power bank is found in checked baggage, it may be confiscated or cause delays in processing your luggage.

Conclusions

Flying with a power bank is easy—as long as you follow airline rules. The key takeaways:

• Keep your power bank under 100Wh for hassle-free travel
  
• Pack it in your carry-on bag
  
• Choose fast-charging, travel-friendly power banks like VoltaGo Max (27,000mAh) 

Next time you travel, power up with the right gear and enjoy a worry-free flight.