Yes, you can take phone chargers and power banks on a plane, but they must go in your carry-on, not checked luggage, due to fire risks, with limits on power bank size (usually <160Wh) and quantity (often max 2 per person), and some airlines now ban using or charging power banks mid-flight, only allowing phones to charge via in-seat ports. Always pack cables in your hand luggage and check your airline's specific rules before flying.
For practical reasons, many travelers keep these items in hand luggage (so they can charge devices during layovers and have the charger available upon landing). Security agencies advise packing electronics carefully – for example, wrap up loose cables to avoid tangles or screening delays.
Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery must be packed in carry-on bags. Spare lithium batteries, which include both power banks and phone chargers, are prohibited in checked luggage.
Charging cables (USB cords) and plug-in power adapters for phones do not contain batteries or hazardous components, so they are allowed in both cabin hand luggage and checked baggage.
Power banks with a capacity of up to 100Wh (approximately 27,000 mAh) are generally allowed in carry-on luggage without requiring any special approval. If the capacity falls between 100Wh and 160Wh, you typically need airline approval before bringing it on board.
Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery must be packed in carry-on bags. Spare lithium batteries, which include both power banks and phone chargers, are prohibited in checked luggage.
You can't bring sharp objects (knives, scissors over 4in), weapons, most tools (hammers, drills), firearms, explosives, flammable liquids/aerosols, large lithium batteries, disabling sprays (pepper spray), or large quantities of liquids (over 100ml) in your carry-on; most hazardous materials and large sporting goods are also banned due to security risks, requiring them to be checked.
Types of chargers not allowed on a plane
Other than the 100Wh/27,000mAh rule, the FAA does have some limitations: Power chargers must be for personal use only. Power chargers intended for resale are prohibited. Damaged batteries and chargers are not allowed.
Auxiliary batteries, spare lithium-ion batteries (not installed in a device), and power banks must NOT be placed in overhead bins or checked-in baggage. These are only allowed as carry-on items. Store them in a bag that stays with you, in the seat pocket or under the seat in front of you.
Power banks are considered spare lithium batteries, which means they're not allowed in checked luggage. Keep them in your cabin bag or personal item so, if something overheats, it can be handled quickly.
But, the list of items you cannot bring on a plane is too long to cover in its entirety here. Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed.
The rule is intended to help flight crews quickly identify and respond to potential overheating from lithium-ion batteries, which can pose a serious fire risk. Power banks and portable chargers have become carry-on essentials, especially during long-haul flights.
No More In-Flight Charging: DGCA Bans Power Bank Use on Indian Flights. ✈️ Safety First! The DGCA has officially barred the use of power banks for charging phones and gadgets during flights in India. Citing fire hazards linked to lithium-ion batteries, the regulator has also banned storing them in overhead bins.
You can pack many electronics in checked bags if completely off and protected, but spare batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes are forbidden and must be in carry-on; devices with large lithium batteries (over 160Wh), certain smart bags, and damaged electronics are generally banned from both carry-on and checked bags due to fire risks, so always check your airline's specific rules.
Bringing a portable charger (power bank) for your phone or tablet is a smart move, but you need to know the rules. Power banks contain lithium batteries, so airlines and the UK Civil Aviation Authority require that they be carried in your hand luggage only, not in checked baggage.
You can't bring sharp objects (knives, scissors over 4in), weapons, most tools (hammers, drills), firearms, explosives, flammable liquids/aerosols, large lithium batteries, disabling sprays (pepper spray), or large quantities of liquids (over 100ml) in your carry-on; most hazardous materials and large sporting goods are also banned due to security risks, requiring them to be checked.
According to global air safety regulations, spare lithium batteries, including power banks or portable chargers, must be carried in hand luggage and are not permitted in checked baggage. This is because power banks can pose a fire risk. Keeping them in the cabin allows flight crews to act quickly if any issue arises.
Portable battery chargers that comply with TSA regulations are those with lithium-ion batteries under 100 Wh. Chargers between 101-160 Wh are allowed with airline approval, and any above 160 Wh are prohibited. Always check the watt-hour rating on your charger before flying.
The use of power banks on board is prohibited. Charging of power banks on board is prohibited, including via in-seat power or USB ports. You may now only carry up to two power banks (each not exceeding a maximum capacity of 160Wh) in your carry-on baggage.
Can I Pack Chargers in My Carry On? (Adapters & Cables) The short answer is yes. You can bring chargers, including USB cables, power adapters, and charging bricks, in your carry-on luggage. Airport authorities like CATSA, IATA, and EASA allow these items since they don't contain batteries or hazardous materials.
Yes, for budget airlines like Jetstar, a handbag (or personal item like a laptop bag) is generally included in the 7kg carry-on allowance, meaning the total weight of both your main carry-on and your small item must not exceed 7kg. Some full-service airlines, like Air New Zealand, offer a 7kg allowance for Economy but often permit an additional small personal item (like a handbag) on top of that, depending on your fare and status, but always check your specific airline's rules.
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Travellers may be denied boarding for medical reasons if airline staff believe you're unfit to fly. This might include visible injuries, recent illness, pregnancy, or even minor symptoms like coughing or limping. While intended to protect passenger safety, decisions can be inconsistent—and sometimes wrong.
Essential Guidelines for Traveling with Portable Batteries