Can I take a 5000 mAh power bank on a plane?
A 5000 mAh power bank at 3.7 V is about 18.5 Wh.
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18.5 Wh: Allowed in carry-on (≤100 Wh)No airline approval needed under IATA rules. Never in checked baggage.
18.0 Wh @ 3,6 V · 18.5 Wh @ 3,7 V
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.