Can You Take a Power Bank on a Plane? The Rule That Gets Travelers Stopped at the Airport

Quick answer: yes — but only in your carry-on, never in checked luggage. Power banks under 100 Wh (roughly 27,000 mAh) are allowed on most airlines; 100–160 Wh usually needs airline approval; above 160 Wh is banned.

Every summer, travelers lose power banks at airport security for one simple reason: they put them in the wrong bag. Here’s what you need to know before you fly from Cairo, Hurghada or anywhere else.

Why the rules exist

Lithium batteries can overheat and, rarely, catch fire. In the cabin, crew can deal with it instantly. In the cargo hold, they can’t. That’s why spare batteries stay with you.

mAh to Wh in 5 seconds

Airlines use watt-hours (Wh). Formula: mAh × 3.7 ÷ 1000 = Wh.

Tips that save you trouble

• Choose a power bank with the capacity clearly printed on it — unlabeled banks can be refused.
• Most airlines limit you to two spare batteries in the 100–160 Wh range; small banks usually aren’t limited the same way, but check.
• Some airlines don’t allow charging from a power bank during the flight. Charge before boarding.
• Always check your airline’s latest policy — rules can change.

Not sure what size you need? Read the power bank math.