Questions about flying with batteries

Short answers about taking power banks and other spare lithium-ion batteries on a plane.

What is a watt-hour (Wh)?

A watt-hour is how much energy a battery stores. Airline limits for batteries are set in Wh: 0–100 Wh is allowed in carry-on, 100–160 Wh needs airline approval, and over 160 Wh isn’t allowed on passenger planes.

Where do I find my battery’s Wh?

Most power banks print it on the case or label, often in small type, next to the capacity (mAh) and voltage (V). If only mAh and V are shown, multiply them and divide by 1,000, or use the calculator.

My power bank says 140W. Is that over the limit?

No. Watts (W) say how fast a power bank charges your devices. Airlines limit watt-hours (Wh), the energy it holds, and a 140 W power bank can hold well under 100 Wh.

Which voltage do I use?

The cell voltage printed on the label, usually 3.6 V, 3.7 V or 3.85 V. Not the 5 V or 20 V USB output: that makes the Wh look far bigger than it is.

Can I put a power bank in checked bags?

No. Spare lithium batteries and power banks have to go in your carry-on, whatever their size. If your carry-on is checked at the gate, take them out and keep them with you.

What if my battery is 100–160 Wh?

You need your airline’s approval, and you can bring up to 2 spare batteries that size. Ask the airline before you fly.

How many power banks can I bring?

How many 0–100 Wh batteries you can bring differs between airlines and countries, so check your airline’s rules before you fly.

Can I use my power bank during the flight?

It depends on the airline. Some don’t allow charging from a power bank on board, or using one at all. Check with your airline.

My battery isn’t listed. What can I do?

Use the calculator with the capacity (mAh) and voltage (V) printed on its label.

Where does the battery data come from?

From makers’ published specifications. It can be wrong or out of date, and some models change between versions, so go by the label on your own battery.

Is CanIFlyWithMyBattery official?

No. CanIFlyWithMyBattery is independent and isn’t affiliated with the FAA, TSA, IATA, any airline or any battery maker. The limits shown are the general FAA and IATA rules; airlines and countries can be stricter, and airline and security staff make the final call.