Can I bring a 100W power bank on a plane?

Power Up on the Go: Understanding Power Bank Rules for Air Travel

Staying connected is essential for many travelers, and portable power banks are a convenient way to keep devices charged on the go. However, bringing these powerhouses on a plane isn’t as simple as tossing them in your bag. Specific regulations govern the types of power banks allowed onboard, primarily focusing on their capacity and placement. So, can you bring a 100W power bank on a plane? The answer is a bit nuanced.

The key isn’t wattage (W), but rather watt-hours (Wh). While a power bank might be capable of outputting 100W of power to quickly charge your laptop, the critical factor for air travel is the energy it stores, measured in watt-hours. Regulations generally limit power banks in carry-on luggage to a maximum of 100Wh.

Think of it like this: wattage is like the speed of water flowing from a faucet, while watt-hours are like the total amount of water in the tank. A high wattage simply means your device will charge faster, but the Wh rating tells you how much total charge the power bank holds.

So, a 100W power bank might be permissible if its capacity is 100Wh or less. To determine your power bank’s Wh rating, check the label. It’s often printed alongside the mAh (milliampere-hour) rating. You can calculate Wh using this formula:

*(mAh Voltage) / 1000 = Wh**

For example, a power bank with a 20,000mAh rating and a 5V output would have a 100Wh rating. This would be allowed on the plane in your carry-on baggage.

Crucially, power banks are only allowed in carry-on luggage. Storing them in checked baggage is strictly prohibited due to the potential fire risk. Airline staff will confiscate any power banks found in checked bags.

Finally, even if your power bank is under the 100Wh limit, it’s always a good idea to check with your specific airline for any additional restrictions or requirements they might have. While the 100Wh rule is generally accepted, airlines have the final say.

In short, bringing a power bank on a plane requires understanding the difference between wattage and watt-hours. Stay within the 100Wh limit, keep it in your carry-on, and confirm any specific airline rules for a smooth and powered-up journey.