When flying, you might wonder: Can you take a power bank on a plane? Can you bring battery packs on a plane? According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and International Air Transport Association (IATA) Regulations for Power Banks on Planes, in UK most power banks can be taken on board as long as the battery capacity does not exceed a certain value and they can be carried with you in your carry-on luggage. Similar rules apply to other battery-operated devices, such as laptops, smartphones, cameras, tablets, and e-readers, which are also allowed as long as they meet the capacity limits.
How to Check If Your Power Bank Is Allowed to Take On Planes?
No more being bothered by the question, “Can I take a power bank on a plane?” To check whether your portable power supply complies with UK aviation safety regulations, you can follow these steps:
1. Check the capacity (Wh)
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) stipulates that the capacity of a power bank determines whether it can be carried:
• Under 100 Wh: Can be carried with you, usually does not require special approval.
• 100 Wh to 160 Wh: Can be carried on carry-on, but requires airline approval. Each passenger can carry up to 2 power bank.
• Above 160 Wh: Prohibited.
How to calculate the Wh value of a power bank?
You can calculate the Wh value using the following formula:
Wh=mAh×V/1000Wh = mAh \times V / 1000Wh=mAh×V/1000
• mAh: the capacity of the power bank (milliamp hours)
• V: The voltage of the power bank (volts)
If the voltage and capacity are not clearly marked, you can look for the power bank’s manual or label.
2. Check for damage
If the power bank is damaged or obviously worn, you may be denied boarding. Make sure the power bank case is intact and does not have any cracks or chips.
3. Confirm whether it complies with airline regulations
Even if a power bank complies with the basic regulations of the CAA, different airlines may have their own additional requirements. Before departure, it’s a good idea to check the policies of your airline to see if they have any other special restrictions.
4. Carry it with you and avoid checking it in
Power bank cannot be placed in checked baggage, it can only be carried on carry-on. If your airline allows it, it’s best to keep your power bank somewhere easily accessible, such as in your handbag or backpack.
5. Pack it properly
To avoid short circuits or accidental activation, make sure the power bank is properly packaged. Keep the power bank in its original box, or use a protective case to prevent the battery from coming into contact with metal objects.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow the Rules?
Can you take a power bank on an airplane? It could become a serious issue. If you do not comply with the above aviation regulations on carrying power banks, you may face the following consequences:
1. Denied boarding
The airline or security personnel may ask you to put the power bank back in the car or discard it, as the power bank can pose a fire hazard, especially if it is packed into checked luggage or exceeds battery capacity limits. Failure to have a compliant power bank may result in your inability to board the flight.
2. Fines or penalties
Some airline or country security regulations may impose fines for violations. Violations of relevant safety regulations may result in additional penalties or fines, with specific amounts depending on specific country and airline policies.
3. Flight delays
If you are caught carrying a non-compliant power bank, your flight may be delayed. Security staff will ask to inspect and handle your belongings, which may delay boarding and disrupt other passengers.
4. Safety hazards
Carrying a power bank that does not meet regulations, especially one with an excessive capacity or damage, may pose a threat to aircraft safety. For example, lithium batteries are prone to fires or explosions when short-circuited, overcharged, or damaged. Failure to comply may not only affect you but may also threaten the safety of other passengers.
5. Travel disruption
If the power bank cannot be carried with you or is required to be discarded, it may affect your travel experience. Especially for long flights, power banks cannot be used to charge mobile phones, laptops and other devices, which may cause inconvenience in communication or entertainment.
Recommendations for the Best Portable Travel Companions:
The EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000mAh) is the perfect travel companion, offering fast and efficient charging with Qi2 15W wireless charging, which is twice as fast as Qi1. Its built-in 30W/65W cable ensures ultra-fast charging without extra cables, and flash recharging powers it up to 70% in under 33 minutes. The versatile kickstand and smart display provide hands-free use and real-time charging insights. Plus, it’s airline-approved for easy travel.
For on-the-go charging, the EcoFlow RAPID 65W GaN Charger complements the RAPID Magnetic Power Bank with its compact design and 3-port capability—2 × USB-C and 1 × USB-A—allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously, including a MacBook Pro 14″ or Samsung S24 Ultra. Thanks to GaN technology, it’s 48% smaller than standard chargers, ensuring fast, reliable power wherever you go.
Conclusion
When traveling with electronic devices, it is important to be fully informed to avoid unnecessary risks. From the size of your power bank to where to store it, we hope this guide on flying with a power bank will prepare you for your next trip. Always keep these travel essentials in mind to ensure a smooth trip. Now you can confidently answer: Can you take power banks on a plane?
FAQs
Can I fly with a power bank?
According to British Airways regulations, you can bring power bank on board, but it must meet the following conditions: the capacity does not exceed 100Wh (approximately 20,000mAh), it must be carried in carry-on luggage, and each person can carry up to two.
Can I carry 20000mah power bank in flight?
Yes, a 20000mAh power bank is allowed on flights. If the voltage is 3.7V, a 20,000mAh power bank would be 20Ah. Using the formula Energy (Wh) = Capacity (Ah) × Voltage (V), the energy would be 20Ah × 3.7V, which equals 74Wh. This is below the 100Wh limit for air travel.
What size powerbank can I take on a plane?
According to the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations, you can carry mobile power supplies with a capacity of no more than 100Wh on board the aircraft. Those with a capacity of 100Wh to 160Wh must be approved by the airline, and those with a capacity exceeding 160Wh are prohibited.
Can I bring a 30000mAh powerbank on a plane?
A 30,000mAh power bank, if the voltage is 5V and the capacity is 150Wh, is within the scope that requires airline approval. You can take it on a plane, but you need approval from the airline.