Are portable chargers banned on planes? Everything you need to know about the rules and procedures
With the increasing reliance on electronic devices in our daily lives, the portable charger or "power bank" has become one of the most important components of the travel bag.
Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, having a portable charger ensures your devices stay charged and ready to use throughout the journey.
But the question that many travelers ask is: Are portable chargers prohibited on the plane? This question becomes more pressing when we consider the laws and security procedures followed by international airlines.
In this article, we will review with you the laws related to portable chargers on board airplanes, how to choose the right power bank for travel, in addition to important tips to ensure your trip is safe and without any obstacles.
What is a portable charger?
A portable charger , also known as a power bank, is a portable electronic device used to charge electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, when there are no nearby electrical outlets available.
A power bank acts as a type of external battery that can be pre-charged and then used to provide extra power to devices when they need it.
Portable chargers vary in capacity, ranging from small capacities that are enough to charge one phone once, to large capacities that can charge multiple devices or the same device several times.
What are the global laws regarding portable chargers on board aircraft?
Global regulations regarding portable chargers on board aircraft aim to ensure the safety of passengers and aircraft during flights.
Here are the most important rules and guidelines to follow:
1. Maximum battery capacity:
- Most airlines allow portable chargers with a capacity of less than 100 watt-hours (Wh) without any restrictions.
If the charger capacity is between 100 and 160 watt-hours, you may be allowed to carry it but with prior approval from the airline. Chargers with a capacity exceeding 160 watt-hours are often prohibited on board aircraft.
2. Carry the charger in your handbag:
- It is highly recommended to carry the power bank in your carry-on baggage and not in your checked baggage in the hold, due to concerns about lithium batteries spontaneously igniting during the flight, as a fire in the passenger cabin is easier to deal with than in the hold.
3. Number of portable chargers allowed:
- Passengers are usually allowed to carry a limited number of power banks, the exact number may vary by airline, but in most cases, two power banks are allowed in carry-on baggage.
4. Additional conditions for some countries:
- Some countries have stricter laws on carrying power banks, for example, in some airports in China, power banks that do not have clear information about the capacity (such as watt-hours) on the box are not allowed to enter.
5. Other Security Terms:
- It is preferable that the portable charger is from a well-known brand and approved by international safety authorities. Avoid using unapproved portable chargers or those that may be counterfeit, as they may be more prone to defects and risks.
By following these rules and guidelines, you can be sure that the portable charger you carry with you will comply with safety regulations and will be accepted on board the plane without any problems. You can also get a clear answer to your question: Is the portable charger prohibited on the plane?
Are power banks allowed on a plane? Tips for traveling safely with your electronic devices
If you are wondering if portable chargers are prohibited on the plane? Yes, power banks are allowed on the plane, but on condition that you adhere to the laws and guidelines set by airlines and international bodies concerned with aviation safety.
Here are some tips for traveling safely with your electronics and power banks:
1. Check the capacity of the power bank before traveling:
- Make sure your power bank capacity does not exceed the allowed limits (usually 100 Wh). If the capacity is higher, check the policies of the airline you will be flying with.
2. Carry the power bank in your handbag:
- Make sure to carry your power bank in your carry-on bag and not in your checked bag, not only because some airlines impose this requirement, but also because dealing with any emergency will be easier if the battery is at hand.
3. Avoid using the power bank during takeoff and landing:
- It is preferable not to use the power bank during take-off or landing, as these times are critical, and any interference with the aircraft's devices must be avoided.
4. Use approved portable chargers:
- Make sure that the power bank you are using is certified by safety authorities, and stay away from counterfeit or unknown products. A certified power bank reduces the risk of accidents such as overheating or burning.
5. Monitor the temperature of the power bank:
- If you notice that the power bank is getting abnormally hot, disconnect it from the device and stop using it immediately. High temperature may be an indication of a battery problem.
6. Report any problems to the crew:
- If you encounter any problem with the power bank during the flight, such as smoke or overheating, inform the flight crew immediately, they are trained to deal with such emergencies.
7. Charge your devices before the flight:
- It's best to have your devices fully charged before your flight to reduce the need to use a power bank while flying.
By following these tips, you can travel safely with your electronic devices and power banks, ensuring a comfortable and safe trip.
Power bank size allowed on the plane: How to choose the right charger?
When choosing a power bank for air travel, it is important to consider the regulations regarding the size and capacity of the charger.
1. Knowing the capacity of the power bank:
- Power bank capacity is measured in Watt-hours (Wh). Most airlines allow portable chargers with a capacity of less than 100Wh without restrictions. You can find this information on the power bank’s packaging or in the user manual. If the capacity is greater than 100Wh, it is considered a powerful charger and is prohibited on the plane, so check the airline’s policy before traveling, as you may need special permission.
2. Convert from milliamperes to watt-hours:
- If the power bank capacity is written in milliampere-hours (mAh), you can convert it to watt-hours using the equation:
Watt-hour = milliampere-hours × output voltage 1000\text{watt-hour} = \frac{\text{milliampere-hours} \times \text{output voltage}}{1000}Watt-hour = 1000 milliampere-hours × output voltage
For example, if a power bank has a capacity of 20,000mAh and an output voltage of 5V, the power bank's watt-hour capacity is 100Wh.
3. Choose a size that suits your needs:
- If you only need to charge your device once during the trip, a power bank with a small capacity (less than 10,000mAh) may be enough. If you carry multiple devices or need to charge your phone multiple times, choose a power bank with a larger capacity, but make sure that the watt-hour capacity does not exceed the permissible limit.
4. Make sure the power bank is compatible with your devices:
- Choose a power bank that has the appropriate outputs for the devices you want to charge. Some power banks provide multiple outputs , allowing you to charge more than one device at the same time.
5. Choose a certified and safe power bank:
- Avoid cheap or unknown chargers. Choose a power bank from a trusted brand that is certified by international safety authorities. This ensures that the charger is equipped with protection mechanisms against sudden temperature rises or electrical stress.
6. Consider weight and size:
- The size and weight of your power bank can affect how comfortable it is to carry while traveling, choose a size that fits in your handbag and is comfortable to carry.
By following these tips, you can choose the right power bank for your trip, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations and keeping you and your devices safe.
Finally, when it comes to traveling, choosing the right power bank is an essential part of ensuring that your devices stay charged and ready to use at any time.
Now that you know the answer to your question: Is a portable charger banned on the plane? If you are looking for the best power bank options that combine quality, safety and compliance with international laws, Phone Zone store is the perfect place for you.
At Phone Zone, you will find a variety of portable chargers from top brands , that meet your needs whether you are looking for a small charger for daily travel or a high-capacity charger for long trips.
Choose Phone Zone for a reliable and secure shopping experience, and get the perfect power bank for your next trip.


