That feeling of panic when your phone hits 5% battery is universal. Whether you’re on a business trip, at a tech conference, or just exploring a new city, staying connected is key. That’s why a good portable charger, often called a power bank, feels like a lifeline. We journalists, especially those covering global tech events, practically live by these little powerhouses. More than 30 flights this year, over 100 last year—a dead phone is simply not an option. So, you grab your powerful battery pack, trusting it has an “Airline Safe” label. But then, you hit airport security, and things get tricky.
You pack your carry-on bag with the usual suspects: clothes that don’t wrinkle, a spare t-shirt, cables, and, of course, your trusty power bank. Maybe it’s a mighty 93.5Wh model, or a 30,000 mAh monster. You’ve checked for sharp objects and liquid limits. You feel ready to roll. Then comes the security checkpoint. You take off your belt, empty your pockets, place your electronics in the bin, and… surprise! The security agent stops you. Your battery is too big. Poof, it’s confiscated. You are left without your essential gadget. This happens more often than you think. Just like there are rules for liquids, there are strict limits for external batteries. Knowing these rules can save you a lot of hassle.
Why Airports Care About Your Battery Pack
The main reason for these strict rules is safety. Lithium-ion batteries, which power most of our devices and power banks, can overheat and catch fire. While rare, a battery fire on an airplane could be very dangerous. This is why airlines and airport security are so careful. They want to avoid any risks.
The global authority on this is the International Air Transport Association, known as IATA. This group represents over 350 airlines in 120 countries. They handle about 80% of the world’s air traffic. A big part of their job is to create and promote safety standards for air travel. The rules for lithium and lithium-ion batteries are detailed in the 66th edition of IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations. You can find their general guidelines on their website and a specific PDF document about lithium battery vehicles and cargo.
Understanding the Limits for Portable Power
IATA’s rules define clear limits for the power banks you can bring on a plane. These limits are based on “watt-hours” (Wh), which measures the total energy stored. This is different from the “milliampere-hours” (mAh) you often see on battery packaging.
Here are the key limits to remember:
- You can bring a maximum of two external batteries, each up to 100 Wh. These must always go in your carry-on bag, never in checked luggage.
- For non-spillable batteries, the limit is up to 12V and 100 Wh, also a maximum of two per person.
- If your battery is between 100 Wh and 160 Wh, you need approval from your airline. You are still limited to two of these.
- Power banks above 160 Wh are usually forbidden for transport on an airplane.
Converting mAh to Wh
Since IATA uses Wh and most power banks show mAh, you might need to do a quick calculation. The formula is quite simple:
Wh = (mAh × V) ÷ 1000Here, ‘V’ stands for voltage. Most power banks have a typical voltage of 3.7 volts. Let’s say you have a 20,000 mAh power bank. Here’s how it works out:
(20,000 × 3.7) ÷ 1000 = 74 WhSince IATA’s limit is 100 Wh, a 20,000 mAh power bank (at 3.7V) is well within the acceptable range. Theoretically, the maximum mAh you can carry while staying under 100 Wh is around 27,000 mAh. To avoid any problems at the airport, it’s best to choose power banks that are between 20,000 and 25,000 mAh. Remember, you can only bring two of these per passenger.
Airline-Specific Rules and Exceptions
While IATA sets the general guidelines, it’s important to know that individual airlines can have their own, stricter rules. If an airline’s policy differs from IATA’s, the airline’s rules are the ones you must follow. It’s always a good idea to check your specific airline’s website before you fly.
Some examples of variations include:
- Hong Kong: You cannot charge power banks in your seat or use them during the flight.
- South Korea: You must keep your battery with you, not in the overhead compartment.
- China Airlines and Singapore Airlines: They also prohibit using power banks during the flight.
- China (domestic flights): Starting June 28, 2025, power banks will need a 3C certification, similar to Europe’s CE mark.
So, the key is to know your power bank’s Wh rating, or be ready to quickly calculate it from the mAh and voltage. Stick to the maximum of two power banks, keep them in your carry-on, and give a quick check to your airline’s specific policies. Following these simple steps will help ensure your gadgets stay charged and your airport experience remains smooth and stress-free. It’s better to be prepared than to lose your favorite charger.
IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations
IATA Lithium Battery Guidance Document