Carrying Portable Power: Are You Allowed to Take a Travel Charger on an Aircraft?
Travelling with portable power banks has become a common practice for many, but it's essential to be aware of the regulations set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) when planning an international flight.
The formula for calculating watt-hours (Wh), the unit used to measure the energy capacity of power banks, is straightforward: Watt-hours = Voltage x Amp-hours.
When it comes to carrying power banks on international flights, the rules are clear. Power banks and spare lithium batteries must be transported in carry-on baggage only; they are strictly prohibited in checked luggage due to fire safety concerns.
The capacity of power banks also plays a significant role in air travel. Power banks up to 100 Wh are allowed without airline approval. However, power banks between 101 Wh and 160 Wh require airline approval, and passengers are usually limited to a maximum of two spare batteries in this range. Power banks over 160 Wh are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.
Quantity limits also apply, with most airlines limiting the number of power banks to two if they exceed 100 Wh up to 160 Wh, but passengers may carry more if the capacity is under 100 Wh—often up to three or more depending on the airline policies.
Safety considerations are paramount when travelling with power banks. Battery terminals must be protected individually to prevent short circuits, usually by taping over terminals or keeping batteries in original packaging or insulated cases. Some airlines may require a fireproof bag or battery safety datasheet for power banks above 100 Wh. Power banks with removable or modular batteries are often prohibited for safety reasons. Charging or using power banks during takeoff and landing can be restricted by some airlines.
Additional requirements include airlines demanding proof of purchase or a receipt for power banks and some carriers demanding a digital or physical declaration of carrying power banks, especially for capacities above 100 Wh. Each airline may have additional or tighter restrictions beyond the FAA and TSA baseline rules, so checking with your airline before flying is essential.
Some popular power banks that comply with these regulations include the 511 Power Bank (PowerCore Fusion 5K), the 733 Power Bank, the 313 Power Bank (PowerCore 10K), and the 533 Power Bank (PowerCore 10K).
In summary, U.S. TSA and FAA guidelines align internationally in requiring power banks to be carried only in the cabin, limiting capacity to 160 Wh, and restricting quantity and handling for safety. International carriers may vary in enforcement or add specific rules such as fireproof bags or declaration forms, so passengers should verify individual airline policies before travel.
Always remember to store your power bank in a protective case or bag to prevent it from being damaged or short-circuited by other items in your luggage. Regulations regarding portable chargers may change over time, so it's important to check the FAA and TSA websites for the most up-to-date information.
Happy and safe travels!
Considering the strict regulations set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for carrying power banks during international flights, it's important to note that along with power banks, smartphones and other gadgets might also be affected by these rules. As a precaution, travelers should store small gadgets like smartphones in protective cases and abide by the rules set for power banks to prevent any issues. Furthermore, it's essential to be aware of the limitations set for the quantity and capacity of power banks, as well as the requirement for proof of purchase, to ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
