Can I take my power bank on a plane?
Enter your power bank's capacity. We convert it to watt-hours (Wh), the unit airlines use, and apply the IATA passenger rules.
Most power banks use 3.6 or 3.7 V cells. If the label shows Wh, that number wins.
The rules (IATA, for spare lithium-ion batteries)
- Power banks count as spare batteries: carry-on baggage only, never in checked baggage.
- Up to 100 Wh: allowed without airline approval (IATA allows up to 20 spare batteries per person).
- Over 100 Wh up to 160 Wh: airline approval required, maximum 2 per person.
- Over 160 Wh: not allowed in passenger baggage.
- Protect terminals from short circuits (original packaging, tape, or a separate pouch).
!
Many airlines now add their own limitsSince 2025–2026 a number of airlines restrict using or charging power banks during the flight, storing them in overhead bins, or the number you may carry. These rules differ by airline: check your airline's official dangerous-goods page before you fly.
Source: IATA passenger lithium battery guidance (Revision 3) and FAA PackSafe, checked 12 Nov 2026. This is general guidance, not your airline's policy.
Common sizes
| Capacity | Wh at 3.7 V | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 mAh | 18.5 | Allowed in carry-on |
| 10,000 mAh | 37.0 | Allowed in carry-on |
| 20,000 mAh | 74.0 | Allowed in carry-on |
| 25,000 mAh | 92.5 | Allowed in carry-on |
| 26,800 mAh | 99.2 | Allowed in carry-on |
| 27,000 mAh | 99.9 | Allowed in carry-on |
| 30,000 mAh | 111.0 | Airline approval needed |
| 40,000 mAh | 148.0 | Airline approval needed |
| 50,000 mAh | 185.0 | Not allowed as passenger baggage |