The basic rules
| Capacity | Carry-on | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 100 Wh | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Over 100 Wh up to 160 Wh | With airline approval | Not allowed |
| Over 160 Wh | Not allowed | Not allowed |
Power banks can never go in checked luggage, whatever their size: a fire in the hold is far harder to deal with.
mAh to Wh
Wh = mAh × 3.7 ÷ 1000 (3.7 V is a typical lithium cell voltage; if Wh is printed on the product, that number wins).
| Printed capacity | Wh (at 3.7 V) | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 mAh | 37 Wh | Carry-on OK |
| 20,000 mAh | 74 Wh | Carry-on OK |
| 27,000 mAh | about 99.9 Wh | Carry-on OK (borderline) |
| 30,000 mAh | 111 Wh | Airline approval needed |
Newer limits
A growing number of airlines have added rules on top of the Wh limits. As one example, Korean airlines have limited passengers to two power banks each since April 20, 2026, alongside:
- No charging devices from a power bank, or charging the power bank, during the flight
- No storing power banks in the overhead bin: keep them on you or in the seat pocket
- Terminals taped over or each unit in its own pouch or clear bag
Other airlines differ, so check your airline’s current notice.
Checking it in the app
Enter the battery capacity
Edit a power bank item in Packing List and you’ll find a Battery (each) field. If you only know mAh, type it and tap Convert to Wh.
100 Wh / 160 Wh verdict
Each battery item is rated "Up to 100 Wh — carry-on, no paperwork", "100–160 Wh — airline approval needed" or "Over 160 Wh — not allowed". Put a power bank in the checked bag and you’re warned straight away.
FAQ
Do laptop and camera batteries count?
Devices with lithium batteries and spare batteries are covered too, with different rules for installed and spare batteries. Check your airline.
The capacity label has worn off.
Batteries with no readable capacity may be refused. Bring one with a clear label.
Packing List: Travel Checklist
No sign-up, and your trips stay on your phone. Free on Android.