Are Battery Chargers Allowed On Planes? | Smart Packing

Yes, most battery chargers are allowed on planes, though specific rules apply to power banks and devices with powerful lithium-ion batteries.

Navigating airport security and packing regulations can sometimes feel like solving a puzzle, especially when it comes to our essential electronics. Keeping our devices charged while traveling is a top priority, making the question of bringing battery chargers on a flight a common one for many globetrotters.

Understanding the Basics: Chargers vs. Power Banks

Before diving into the specifics, it’s helpful to distinguish between different types of charging accessories. A “battery charger” typically refers to an AC adapter that plugs into a wall outlet, or a simple USB cable used to connect a device to a power source. A “power bank,” on the other hand, is a portable device that contains its own internal battery, designed to store energy and recharge other gadgets on the go.

The rules for these items differ significantly because of what’s inside them. Simple wall chargers and USB cables are generally straightforward, as they don’t store energy themselves. Power banks, however, contain lithium-ion batteries, which are subject to stricter aviation regulations due to their potential fire risk.

Carry-On vs. Checked Bags: The Golden Rule

This is where the most critical distinction lies for battery chargers, particularly power banks. For the safety of everyone on board, devices containing lithium-ion batteries, including portable power banks, must always be carried in your carry-on luggage.

According to the TSA, portable power banks and spare lithium batteries must always be packed in carry-on luggage and are strictly prohibited in checked bags due to fire safety concerns. This rule exists because lithium-ion batteries can overheat and potentially cause a fire, a risk that is much harder to manage in the cargo hold than in the passenger cabin, where flight attendants can quickly address any issues.

Wall chargers, laptop chargers, and USB cables, which do not contain batteries, can typically be packed in either your carry-on or checked baggage without issue. However, many travelers prefer to keep them in their carry-on for easy access or to avoid damage.

Lithium-Ion Power Banks: Specific Guidelines

While power banks are allowed in carry-on bags, there are limits based on their energy capacity, measured in watt-hours (Wh). Most standard consumer power banks fall within acceptable limits, but it’s essential to check your device.

Calculating Watt-Hours (Wh)

If your power bank only lists milliamp-hours (mAh) and voltage (V), you can calculate the watt-hours: (mAh × V) / 1000 = Wh. For example, a 20,000 mAh power bank at 3.7V would be (20,000 × 3.7) / 1000 = 74 Wh.

Watt-Hour Limits for Power Banks

• Up to 100 Wh: Most common power banks, like those for smartphones and tablets, fall into this category. You can bring these in your carry-on without airline approval. There is no specific limit on the number of these you can bring, but it’s practical to only carry what you need.
• 101 to 160 Wh: Larger power banks, often used for laptops or multiple devices, might fall into this range. You need airline approval to carry these. Typically, you are limited to two such spare batteries per passenger.
• Over 160 Wh: Power banks exceeding 160 Wh are generally forbidden on passenger planes, whether in carry-on or checked luggage. These are usually very large, high-capacity units.

Charger Type & Baggage Allowance

Charger Type	Carry-On Bag	Checked Bag
Wall Charger (AC Adapter)	Allowed	Allowed
USB Charging Cable	Allowed	Allowed
Laptop Charger	Allowed	Allowed
Portable Power Bank (Lithium-Ion)	Required	Prohibited

Types of Chargers and Their Rules

Beyond general categories, specific device chargers also follow these guidelines:

• Smartphone and Tablet Chargers: These are typically wall adapters and USB cables. They are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
• Laptop Chargers: Consisting of an AC adapter and cable, these are fine in either bag. Many travelers prefer them in carry-on to use their laptop on the flight.
• Camera Battery Chargers: These are usually small wall adapters for camera batteries. They can go in either bag. The camera batteries themselves (especially spares) should be in carry-on.
• Electric Shaver/Toothbrush Chargers: These are generally simple inductive chargers or wall adapters. They are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
• Vape Pens and E-Cigarette Chargers: While the devices themselves (vape pens, e-cigarettes) are strictly carry-on only, their chargers are typically USB cables or small wall adapters, which can be packed in either bag. However, it’s often simpler to keep the charger with the device in your carry-on.

Lithium-Ion Battery Wh Limits for Carry-On

Watt-Hour (Wh) Range	Airline Approval Needed	Max Quantity Per Passenger
Up to 100 Wh	No	Reasonable number for personal use
101-160 Wh	Yes	2 spare batteries
Over 160 Wh	Prohibited	0

Safety First: Best Practices for Traveling with Chargers

Even when allowed, handling chargers and power banks with care ensures a smooth and safe journey:

• Protect Terminals: If carrying spare batteries or power banks, protect their terminals from short circuits. This can be done by keeping them in their original retail packaging, in a battery case, or by taping over the exposed terminals.
• Avoid Damage: Pack chargers and cables in a way that prevents them from being crushed, bent, or damaged. A small electronics organizer can be very useful.
• Inspect for Damage: Never travel with damaged chargers, cables, or power banks. Frayed wires, cracked casings, or swollen batteries are fire hazards and should be replaced.
• Charging Onboard: While many planes offer USB ports or outlets, use them cautiously. Only charge devices with their original or certified third-party chargers. Avoid using damaged ports.

Navigating International Travel with Electronics

While the core rules for lithium batteries are largely standardized globally by international aviation organizations, always check the specific regulations of your airline and destination country if you are concerned. Most countries adhere to similar guidelines regarding lithium-ion batteries in carry-on luggage. The main variations you might encounter internationally relate to voltage differences for wall chargers, which can be solved with a universal travel adapter.

Preparing for Security: A Smooth Experience

When going through airport security, having your electronics organized can save time and reduce stress. While you typically don’t need to remove standard wall chargers or USB cables from your bag, be prepared to remove larger electronic devices like laptops, tablets, and sometimes even power banks, for separate screening. Keeping these items easily accessible in your carry-on can make the process much more efficient.

If you are carrying multiple power banks or larger capacity ones (101-160 Wh), it’s a good idea to have them easily identifiable and to inform the security officer if asked. Most security personnel are familiar with these regulations.