Avoid having your expensive power bank confiscated. Here's exactly what's allowed in carry-on luggage and what gets you flagged at security.
Wh rating: The golden rule
Most airlines limit power banks to 100Wh (Watt-hours) without prior approval. A typical 20,000mAh power bank at 3.7V is ~74Wh — safe. Anything above 160Wh is banned. Formula: (mAh * Voltage)/1000 = Wh.
Never in checked baggage
Since 2016, IATA prohibits loose lithium batteries in checked luggage due to fire risk. Always keep power banks in your carry-on. Also, ensure terminals are covered to prevent short circuits.
| Capacity (mAh) | Wh (3.7V) | Carry-on allowed? |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 | 37Wh | ✅ Yes (unlimited quantity under 100Wh) |
| 20,000 | 74Wh | ✅ Yes |
| 27,000 | 99.9Wh | ✅ Yes (limit 2 units) |
| 30,000 | 111Wh | ⚠️ Airline approval required |
Traveler's choice
Sharge CarbonMAG 10,000mAh – ultra-slim, magnetic, and certified for global flights. No-hassle security.
Shop travel-safe →Pro tip: Print battery specs label if it's faded. Security officers often ask to see Wh printed on the device. Choose power banks with clear regulatory markings.