Can I bring a 65W charger on a plane?

Can I Bring My 65W Charger on a Plane? Navigating Airplane Power Rules

The question of bringing chargers on planes often sparks confusion, especially when dealing with wattage. While a 65W charger is perfectly acceptable for powering your devices on the ground, its air travel eligibility hinges on a different metric: watt-hours (Wh). Understanding the distinction is crucial for a smooth travel experience.

Your 65W charger itself isn’t directly restricted by a wattage limit. The key lies in what it powers. The confusion stems from the fact that the wattage (W) printed on a charger indicates its power output, while airline regulations focus on the power storage capacity of portable batteries, measured in watt-hours (Wh). Watt-hours reflect the total energy a battery can store, calculated by multiplying voltage (V) by capacity (Ah, amp-hours).

Think of it this way: Your 65W charger draws power from the aircraft’s outlet or a portable power bank. It doesn’t contain a significant battery itself; therefore, its 65W rating is irrelevant to airline regulations regarding battery-powered devices.

Where the Confusion Lies (and the Importance of Power Banks):

Many travelers use portable power banks to charge devices during flights. These power banks do have a watt-hour limit. Most airlines permit power banks with a capacity of up to 100 Wh in carry-on baggage. Power banks exceeding this limit generally require prior approval from the airline and may be prohibited altogether. If you are using a power bank to charge your device, its watt-hour rating, not your charger’s wattage, is the deciding factor.

Therefore, to answer the question directly: You can almost certainly bring a 65W charger on a plane. However, the rules regarding power banks used to power that charger are strict. Always check your specific airline’s regulations for power bank size and capacity limits before your flight. Failing to do so might result in your power bank being confiscated at the security checkpoint.

In short:

• 65W Charger: Generally allowed in carry-on luggage. Its wattage isn’t the deciding factor for airline regulations.
• Power Bank (used with the charger): Subject to a 100 Wh limit (or less, depending on the airline) for carry-on. Check with your airline for specifics.

Always double-check your airline’s website for their most up-to-date policies before traveling. Safe travels!