Keep power banks in carry-on baggage
IATA treats power banks as spare batteries. Spare batteries are not allowed in checked baggage. If a cabin bag is taken at the gate for the hold, remove power banks and loose batteries first.
Do not travel with swollen, damaged, unusually hot or smoking batteries. Tell airport or cabin staff immediately if a device behaves abnormally.
Check watt-hours
Airline rules use watt-hours rather than only milliamp-hours. Many power banks print the Wh rating on the casing. Larger batteries over 100 Wh may need prior airline approval.
| Rating | Practical meaning |
|---|---|
| up to 100 Wh | generally allowed in carry-on; check airline rules |
| over 100 Wh | airline approval may be required |
| rating unreadable | acceptance at security may be refused |
Protect the battery
- ✓Prevent buttons from being pressed accidentally.
- ✓Use original packaging, a battery case or insulated terminals for loose batteries.
- ✓Keep batteries away from keys, coins and other conductive objects.
- ✓Confirm the rules of the operating airline before departure.