Power banks contain lithium batteries, and airlines have rules about them. The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) set out changes effective 27 March 2026. Airlines can be stricter, so check yours.

This guide is based on the public sources listed at the end. We have not tested the products or services mentioned.

This is a short reference page. The full guide is Travel and Gadgets: Power Banks on Planes, Hand Luggage Liquids, USB-C Power and Safe Listening.

The UK CAA rules

  • Power banks go in cabin baggage only, not the hold.
  • No more than two per person.
  • Up to 100 Wh needs no airline approval. Above 100 Wh and up to 160 Wh needs the airline's approval.
  • Lithium metal banks can contain no more than 2 g of lithium.
  • A power bank must not be recharged on board and should not be used to charge other devices.
  • Each unused power bank must be protected against short circuit: original packaging, taped terminals or a separate pouch.
  • Batteries must meet UN test 38.3.

Working out watt-hours

If only mAh is printed, use: watt-hours = volts × amp-hours. Example: 20,000 mAh at 3.6 V is 3.6 × 20 = 72 Wh, under the 100 Wh line. Check the label, because the voltage printed may differ.

Other countries

Rules differ. We have not read the US or EU pages, so check the airline and the authority for each country on your route.

Buying tips

Choose a power bank with the Wh figure printed on it, and check the listing and packaging for it. Our guide to chargers, cables and power banks covers the rest.

Last checked: 15 October 2026. Sources: UK CAA, changes to rules on lithium cells, batteries and power banks.