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    Electronics on the Go: Can You Bring a Portable Charger On a Plane?

    • 4 min read

    It can be difficult to know what electronics you can and cannot bring on a plane. If you’re still asking, can you bring a portable charger on a plane? The answer is yes, you can travel with most power banks. However, if you are concerned about your charger being seized or are generally anxious about the safety elements of being in the air, read on.

    FAA and TSA Regulations Regarding Portable Chargers

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    The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and TSA (Transportation Security Administration) have specific regulations regarding bringing a portable charger on a plane. FAA regulations state that spare lithium-ion batteries (which include portable chargers) must be carried in carry-on luggage only while TSA regulations require that portable chargers be placed in carry-on luggage or carried on your person. They are not allowed in checked luggage. Portable chargers must also be turned off and protected from accidental activation. It's important to note that the rules regarding portable chargers may change over time, so it's always a good idea to check with the FAA and TSA websites for the most up-to-date information before traveling with your portable charger.

    Can You Carry a Power Bank on International Flights?

    Yes, you can carry a power bank on an international flight. However, the specific regulations regarding power banks may vary depending on the airline, the country you're traveling to, and the type and capacity of the power bank. It's always a good idea to check with the airline and the destination country's regulations before your flight to ensure that you comply with their specific rules regarding power banks. You can also check the TSA and FAA websites for more information on regulations regarding portable chargers and lithium-ion batteries when traveling by air.

    How to Determine the Watt-Hours of a Battery?

    To determine the watt-hours of a battery of a power bank, you need to know two things: the battery's voltage and its capacity in amp-hours (Ah). Once you have this information, you can use the following formula to calculate the watt-hours:

    Watt-hours = Voltage x Amp-hours

    For example, if you have a battery with a voltage of 12 volts and a capacity of 50 Ah, you would calculate the watt-hours as follows:

    Watt-hours = 12 volts x 50 Ah

    Watt-hours = 600 watt-hours

    So, the battery has a total energy capacity of 600 watt-hours. This means it could supply a load of 100 watts for 6 hours, or a load of 50 watts for 12 hours, or any combination of wattage and time that adds up to 600 watt-hours.

    Checklist for Power Banks Before Travelling

    If you are planning to travel and want to bring a portable charger with you, here is a checklist of things you should consider to ensure that your power bank is safe and reliable:

    • Capacity
    • Output ports
    • Input port
    • Charging time
    • Weight and size
    • Compatibility
    • Safety features
    • Brand Reputation
    • Certification
    • Warranty

    Best Portable Power Chargers Allowed on Airplanes

    When traveling on an airplane, it's important to choose a portable phone battery that complies with airline regulations. Here are some of the best portable power chargers that are allowed on airplanes:

    • Anker 533 Power Bank(PowerCore 10K)
    • Anker 733 Power Bank
    • Anker 511 Power Bank (PowerCore Fusion 5K)
    • Anker 313 Power Bank (PowerCore 10K)

    When choosing a portable power charger for air travel, it's important to check the airline's specific regulations on lithium-ion batteries, as well as any restrictions on the size and capacity of power banks. It's also a good idea to carry the power bank in your carry-on luggage and not in checked baggage.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, you are generally allowed to bring a portable charger on a plane as long as it complies with airline regulations like a Anker 733 Power Bank. Most airlines allow passengers to bring power banks in their carry-on luggage, but not in checked baggage, due to the risk of fire caused by lithium-ion batteries. The capacity of the power bank is also typically limited to 100 watt-hours or 20,000mAh. It is always a good idea to check the specific airline's regulations before traveling to ensure that your portable charger is allowed on the plane. 

    FAQ

    Where Should I Pack My Power Bank When Flying?

    When flying, it is recommended to pack your power bank in your carry-on luggage rather than in checked baggage. By packing your power bank in your carry-on luggage, you can keep an eye on it and prevent it from being subjected to rough handling or extreme temperatures. It's also a good idea to store your power bank in a protective case or bag to prevent it from being damaged or short-circuited by other items in your luggage.

    What is the Largest Power Bank on Planes?

    The largest power bank that is allowed on planes depends on the airline's specific regulations, as they may have different restrictions on the size and capacity of power banks. However, in general, most airlines allow power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours or 27,000mAh in carry-on luggage. Some airlines may also have restrictions on the number of power banks that a passenger can bring on board.

    Can You Charge Your Phone on a Plane?

    Yes, you can usually charge your phone on a plane. Most airplanes have power outlets or USB ports that allow passengers to charge their electronic devices during the flight. However, the availability and location of these outlets may vary depending on the airline and the type of aircraft.