Can You Take a Large Power Bank on a Plane? Full Breakdown

Traveling by air often involves a lot of planning and preparation, especially when it comes to packing electronic devices. Power banks are a popular travel essential, ensuring your devices remain charged during long flights or layovers. But if you're carrying a large power bank, you may wonder: Can you take a large power bank on a plane? The answer is yes, but with certain restrictions. In this blog, we’ll explore the regulations, size limits, and best practices for carrying power banks on flights.

Can You Take a Large Power Bank on a Plane?

Airlines and aviation authorities have set specific guidelines for carrying power banks on planes due to their lithium-ion batteries, which can pose a fire risk if damaged or improperly handled. Generally, you can bring a power bank on a plane, but there are size limitations to keep in mind. The primary concern is the capacity of the power bank, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has guidelines for power banks and portable chargers. For most airlines, power banks with a capacity of up to 10,000mAh are typically allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, if the power bank exceeds 10000mAh, restrictions become stricter.

What Happens If You Violate Power Bank Regulations on a Plane?

If you attempt to bring a power bank that exceeds the airline's regulations, you could face significant penalties. Power banks are considered a fire hazard due to their lithium-ion batteries, which can be volatile if damaged or improperly handled. As a result, airlines enforce strict guidelines on their transport.

If your power bank is too large, it may be confiscated at security checkpoints, and you could be denied boarding if the item is deemed a risk. Moreover, failing to adhere to power bank regulations could result in fines or other consequences, depending on the airline’s policy.

So, always ensure that your power bank adheres to the allowed size, weight, and quantity limits. Most airlines follow guidelines set by aviation authorities, so it's essential to stay informed and avoid any unwanted surprises.

What Size Power Bank Can I Take on a Plane?

When traveling with electronic devices, power banks are indispensable. However, understanding the specific regulations surrounding power bank sizes is crucial to avoid delays or confiscations at the airport. So, what size power bank can I take on a plane? The answer lies in the capacity of the power bank, which is typically measured in watt-hours (Wh) or milliampere-hours (mAh). However, once you exceed this limit, different rules apply.

Aviation authorities like the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and IATA (International Air Transport Association) have established clear guidelines for carrying power banks on flights:

1. Up to 100Wh (approximately 27,000mAh): Power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh are typically allowed in carry-on luggage without special approval. These are the most common power banks, such as those with a capacity of 10000mAh or 15000mAh, which are suitable for charging smartphones, tablets, and other smaller devices. If you ask "Can I bring a 10000mAh or 20000mAh power bank on a plane?" Yes, you absolutely can.
2. 100Wh to 160Wh (approximately 27,000mAh to 43,000mAh): Power banks within this range may still be permitted, but you’ll need airline approval before boarding. If you have a larger power bank, such as a 30000mAh power bank, you may need to get explicit approval from your airline. Make sure to contact them ahead of time to ensure compliance with their policies.
3. Over 160Wh (above 43,000mAh): Power banks exceeding 160Wh (or roughly 50000mAh) are prohibited for air travel. These large power banks pose significant safety risks due to their high capacity and are generally not allowed on planes under any circumstances.

Can I Keep My Power Bank in Checked Luggage?

It’s important to note that power banks are only allowed in your carry-on luggage. They are not permitted in checked baggage due to safety concerns related to lithium-ion batteries. The risk of fire or malfunction in the cargo hold is higher because there is no way to monitor or manage a faulty power bank. In contrast, in the cabin, crew members are more equipped to deal with any potential emergencies.

If you attempt to pack your power bank in checked luggage, it will likely be confiscated by airport security. Always store your power bank in your hand luggage, such as a backpack or carry-on suitcase.

Can You Bring Multiple Power Banks on a Plane? 

The number of power banks you can bring on a plane depends on the total watt-hour (Wh) rating. For example:

• If the total watt-hours of your power banks are under 100Wh, you can usually bring up to two power banks on board.
• If the power banks are between 100Wh and 300Wh, you are allowed one power bank, and it must be carried in your carry-on baggage.

In general, the more power your power banks can store, the fewer you can bring. So, if you plan on bringing multiple power banks, it’s essential to calculate their combined watt-hour capacity and ensure it doesn’t exceed the allowed limit.

Can You Use Your Power Bank on the Plane During Flight?

Yes, you can use your power bank on the plane during the flight, but it must be kept in your carry-on luggage. Most airlines allow passengers to use power banks while in-flight, so long as they are not connected to the aircraft’s electrical system.

Using your power bank during the flight is a great way to stay connected, charge your devices, and keep your electronics powered up for long trips. However, be mindful of the airline’s policies and always use your power bank safely to avoid any incidents.

If you plan on using your power bank, ensure that it’s fully charged before your flight. This will allow you to get the most out of your device while on the go.

How to Convert Power Bank mAh to Wh

When traveling with a power bank, it's essential to ensure that it meets the airline regulations based on watt-hours (Wh). Many power banks list their capacity in milliamp-hours (mAh), but most aviation authorities, including the FAA and IATA, use Wh to determine whether your power bank is allowed in carry-on luggage. If you're unsure whether your power bank is within the allowable limits, you need to convert mAh to Wh.

Formula for Converting mAh to Wh

To calculate the watt-hours (Wh) of your power bank, you can use the following simple formula:

$$\text{Watt-hours (Wh)}=\frac{\text{Voltage (V)}\times \text{mAh}}{1000}$$

Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries with a typical voltage of 3.7V. This voltage is important because it helps determine the total energy storage.

If you ask "Can I bring a 50,000 mAh power bank on a plane?" Let's use tthe formula:

Watt-hours=(50000mAh×3.7V)/1000​=185Wh

This power bank exceeds the 160Wh limit and is not allowed in carry-on or checked luggage. If you have a 50000mAh power bank, it would need to be shipped as cargo, which is often an impractical option for most travelers.

Conclusion

Traveling with a power bank doesn't have to be complicated if you know the rules and regulations. By understanding the guidelines for different sizes, whether you can store them in checked luggage, and how many power banks you can bring, you can enjoy your travels without worrying about power supply issues.

If you're looking for a reliable, safe, and travel-friendly power bank, Veger offers a variety of options that comply with airline regulations. Whether you’re looking for a compact 10000mAh power bank or a high-capacity model for long flights, Veger’s power banks provide the performance you need with safety in mind.

Next time you're preparing for a flight, make sure to check the size and watt-hour rating of your power bank to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey!