- Canada’s Airplane Regulations for Power Banks
- Rules for Taking Power Banks on Flights
- How to Calculate the Watt-Hour (Wh) Rating
- 5 Best Power Banks for Airplane Travel
- Tips for Bringing Power Banks Through Airport Security
- Follow airline regulations for capacity and quantity
- Use a protective case or an insulating bag to prevent short circuits
- Don't carry too many large power banks
- How to Maintain Your Power Bank for an Airplane
- Charge your battery to 50–70% before departure; avoid storing it fully charged
- Avoid overcharging or discharging for extended periods
- Avoid excessive sunlight or extreme cold
- FAQ
- Conclusion
5 Best Power Banks for Airplanes in 2025
- Canada’s Airplane Regulations for Power Banks
- Rules for Taking Power Banks on Flights
- How to Calculate the Watt-Hour (Wh) Rating
- 5 Best Power Banks for Airplane Travel
- Tips for Bringing Power Banks Through Airport Security
- Follow airline regulations for capacity and quantity
- Use a protective case or an insulating bag to prevent short circuits
- Don't carry too many large power banks
- How to Maintain Your Power Bank for an Airplane
- Charge your battery to 50–70% before departure; avoid storing it fully charged
- Avoid overcharging or discharging for extended periods
- Avoid excessive sunlight or extreme cold
- FAQ
- Conclusion
For frequent travellers and casual flyers alike, a reliable power bank has become an essential accessory. Whether you’re catching up on work, streaming entertainment during a long-haul flight, or simply keeping your phone charged for boarding passes and ride-hailing at your destination, portable power ensures you’re never left stranded. But bringing a power bank on an airplane isn’t as straightforward as tossing it into your bag. Strict airline regulations, particularly in Canada and other regions, set limits on what you can carry on board, making it important to choose a model that is both powerful and compliant.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key rules for flying with power banks and highlight five of the best options for 2025. From compact everyday chargers to versatile units that can handle multiple devices, these recommendations will help you pick the right travel companion and enjoy a smooth, worry-free journey wherever you’re headed.
Canada’s Airplane Regulations for Power Banks
Air travel rules can feel complicated, especially when electronics and batteries are involved. Canada's airline battery regulations are set by Transport Canada and enforced by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), with passenger safety as the top priority. Power banks are considered lithium-ion batteries, and because of the fire risk they pose, airlines strictly control how they are carried. Understanding these rules, such as capacity limits, carry-on requirements, and proper handling, is the first step to ensuring your trip goes smoothly and without unnecessary delays at security.
Risks of Carrying Power Banks on a Plane
Most modern power banks use lithium-ion batteries, which are efficient but also carry inherent risks under certain conditions. If a battery is damaged, short-circuited, or overheats, it can enter a state known as thermal runaway, which is a chain reaction that produces extreme heat and may result in fire or even an explosion. This danger is heightened inside an aircraft’s pressurized cabin, where a single malfunction can pose serious safety concerns. These risks are the reason airlines enforce strict rules on how power banks are stored and transported, ensuring passenger safety remains the top priority.
Rules for Taking Power Banks on Flights
The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) sets out clear guidelines for carrying power banks on airplanes. These rules are designed not only to streamline security checks but also to protect all passengers from potential hazards.
Must Be in Carry-On Bag
This is the single most important rule when travelling with a power bank. They are strictly prohibited in checked luggage and must always be carried in your cabin bag. The reason is simple: if a battery malfunctions, overheats, or catches fire, the cabin crew can respond immediately, whereas in the cargo hold, the risk would go undetected until it’s too late. Keeping power banks in your carry-on ensures both compliance with airline rules and the safety of everyone on board.
Capacity Limits
Airlines regulate power banks based on their watt-hour (Wh) rating, which measures battery capacity. Units under 100Wh are generally approved for carry-on with no restrictions. Power banks between 100Wh and 160Wh are often permitted but require airline approval before boarding. Anything above 160Wh is prohibited on commercial flights. Knowing your power bank’s rating is essential when travelling, as it determines whether you can bring it on board and avoid delays at security.
Up to 100 Wh: Most everyday power banks fall under this limit and are generally permitted on flights without any restrictions. These models are ideal for charging smartphones, tablets, earbuds, and other small devices, making them the safest and most convenient option for frequent flyers.
100-160 Wh: Power banks in this range offer higher capacity, making them useful for charging laptops or multiple devices. However, airlines place tighter controls on them. Passengers may carry a maximum of two batteries per person, and prior airline approval is required before boarding.
Over 160 Wh: These batteries are not permitted on passenger aircraft.
Any power bank rated above 160 watt-hours is strictly prohibited on passenger aircraft. These high-capacity units are considered too great a safety risk and cannot be carried in either checked luggage or carry-on.
Quantity Limits
For power banks under 100Wh, there is no official restriction on how many you can bring. However, carrying too many may raise concerns during security screening, so it’s best to limit yourself to what you’ll realistically need for your trip. For higher-capacity models over 100Wh, the rule is stricter; you may carry a maximum of two per person, and only with prior airline approval.
Airline-Specific Rules
tricter limits. Some carriers set tighter restrictions on battery capacity or quantity, and these can vary even more on international routes. To avoid surprises at the airport, always check your airline’s official website for the most up-to-date rules on carrying power banks and other lithium batteries.
How to Calculate the Watt-Hour (Wh) Rating
Most power banks list their capacity in milliampere-hours (mAh) rather than watt-hours (Wh). To check if your power bank is flight-approved, you can convert it easily using the formula below:
Calculation Formula
The simple formula is: Wh = (mAh × V) / 1000
Most power banks operate at a standard voltage (V) of 3.7V. For example, a 20,000 mAh power bank has a Wh rating of:
(20,000 mAh × 3.7V) / 1000 = 74 Wh
How to Find the Wh Rating on Your Device
Most power banks have their Wh rating printed directly on the casing, typically on the back or bottom near the capacity (mAh) label. Some manufacturers include both figures, while others list only the mAh, requiring you to calculate the Wh yourself. If the information isn’t visible on the device, check the product packaging or the manufacturer’s website, where the full specifications, including Wh, are usually provided. Confirming this number before you fly ensures your power bank meets airline regulations and avoids issues at security.
5 Best Power Banks for Airplane Travel
Finding the right power bank for air travel means balancing three essentials: capacity, charging speed, and portability. The ideal model should deliver enough power to keep your devices running on long flights, while staying compact and compliant with airline safety rules. With these factors in mind, we’ve selected five of the best options for 2025, reliable, flight-approved picks that are perfect for Canadian travellers heading across the country or overseas.
EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10000mAh)
The EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank is a compact, flight-approved option that’s perfect for travellers who value portability. With a 10,000mAh capacity, it easily fits within airline limits while providing enough power to keep your phone, smartwatch, or earbuds topped up throughout your journey. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the magnetic wireless charging feature adds convenience when you’re on the move.
Beyond its size, the RAPID stands out with 65W fast charging, giving you the ability to quickly recharge devices during layovers or before boarding. The built-in stand makes it simple to stream offline content hands-free, turning your seat into a mini entertainment hub.
Anker Prime 27650mAh Power Bank (250W)
Anker’s Prime 27,650mAh Power Bank is a powerhouse for travellers, delivering a 99.5Wh rating that sits just under the airline limit, meaning maximum capacity without the need for approval. With a 250W total output, it can fast-charge laptops, tablets, and multiple devices at once, making it especially useful for long-haul international flights where access to outlets is scarce. Trusted for its reliability and performance, this Anker model is a top choice for frequent flyers who need serious charging power in 2025.
BioLite Charge 80 PD Power Bank
Known for its rugged outdoor gear, BioLite delivers a reliable option for travellers with the Charge 80 PD. This 20,000mAh power bank carries a 74Wh rating, keeping it well within airline safety limits. Designed with durability in mind, it features a rubberized exterior that protects against drops and rough handling, making it a strong choice for adventurous Canadian travellers.
UGREEN 145W 25000mAh Power Bank
UGREEN’s 145W power bank is built for travellers who need to keep multiple devices running at once. With a 25,000mAh capacity and a 90Wh rating, it stays safely under airline limits while still delivering plenty of power for long flights. Its 145W output allows it to charge a laptop and smartphone simultaneously at high speed, making it ideal for business travellers or anyone juggling several devices.
Shargeek 170 24000mAh 170W PD3.1 Power Bank
The Shargeek 170 is a standout choice for travellers who want both performance and style. With its unique transparent design showcasing the inner components, it appeals to tech enthusiasts while delivering serious capability. Its 86.4Wh rating keeps it well within airline safety limits, and the 170W PD3.1 output provides rapid charging for demanding devices like laptops, tablets, and gaming consoles.
| Brand | Capacity (mAh) | Wh Rating | Ports | Weight (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank | 10,000 | 36 Wh | USB-C | 258 |
| Anker Prime 27650mAh Power Bank | 27,650 | 99.5 Wh | 2 USB-C, 1 USB-A | 667 |
| BioLite Charge 80 PD Power Bank | 20,000 | 74 Wh | 2 USB-A, 1 USB-C | 465 |
| UGREEN 145W 25000mAh Power Bank | 25,000 | 90 Wh | 2 USB-C, 1 USB-A | 516 |
| Shargeek 170 24000mAh Power Bank | 24,000 | 86.4 Wh | 2 USB-C, 1 USB-A | 650 |
To sum up, EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10000mAh) is ideal for overseas flights: it’s flight-approved (fits airline capacity limits), compact and lightweight for easy carrying, offers 65W fast charging for quick top-ups during travels, and has handy features like magnetic wireless charging and a built-in stand—perfect for keeping devices powered on international trips.
Tips for Bringing Power Banks Through Airport Security
Understanding the rules is essential, but a few practical steps can make getting your power bank through security much easier.
Keep it in your carry-on luggage; avoid checking it in
This rule is non-negotiable: power banks must always stay in your carry-on luggage. Placing one in checked baggage will result in confiscation and disposal. Keeping batteries in the main cabin ensures safety, as flight crews can quickly respond in the rare event of overheating or malfunction.
Take it out during security screening
Just like laptops and tablets, power banks should be removed from your bag and placed in a separate tray at security. This allows agents to quickly inspect the device and confirm its specifications, helping you move through screening faster and with fewer delays.
Follow airline regulations for capacity and quantity
While CATSA provides the baseline, individual airlines often apply their own policies regarding battery size and limits. Before flying, check your airline’s official website to confirm what is allowed.
Use a protective case or an insulating bag to prevent short circuits
Preventing short circuits is one of the most important safety steps when travelling with power banks. A simple protective case or even a piece of tape over the terminals helps ensure they don’t come into contact with keys, coins, or other metal objects in your bag. This small precaution greatly reduces the risk of overheating or fire during your journey.
Don't carry too many large power banks
Even if each power bank meets the airline’s capacity rules, bringing too many can raise concerns during screening. Security staff may question the purpose of carrying multiple high-capacity units, which could lead to delays. To avoid unnecessary scrutiny, only pack the number of power banks you realistically need for your trip.
How to Maintain Your Power Bank for an Airplane
A bit of care and maintenance can greatly extend the life of your power bank while ensuring it remains safe for air travel. Proper storage, regular charging habits, and physical protection all contribute to keeping your device in top condition, giving you reliable performance trip after trip.
Charge your battery to 50–70% before departure; avoid storing it fully charged
This is the ideal state for a lithium-ion battery. Storing it at a moderate charge reduces stress on the cells, promoting longevity and a safer condition for travel.
For lithium-ion batteries, the healthiest state for storage and travel is a moderate charge level. Keeping your power bank at around 50–70% capacity reduces stress on the cells, helping to extend its lifespan while also ensuring it remains in a safer condition during your flight.
Avoid overcharging or discharging for extended periods
Most modern power banks include built-in safeguards, but good charging habits still matter. Unplug the device once it reaches full charge rather than leaving it connected indefinitely, as this helps reduce long-term stress on the cells.
Avoid excessive sunlight or extreme cold
Temperature extremes are one of the biggest threats to battery health. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause overheating, while freezing conditions reduce efficiency and may damage internal components. Keep your power bank in a shaded, temperate environment whenever possible to preserve both its performance and lifespan.
Regularly check the battery ports and body for swelling
Routinely check your power bank’s casing and charging ports for any signs of wear or swelling. A swollen battery indicates internal damage and poses a serious safety risk, especially during air travel. If you notice bulging, cracks, or unusual heat, stop using the device immediately and dispose of it safely through an authorized recycling program.
Choose a brand with overcharge and overheating protection
When selecting a power bank for air travel, look for models that include safeguards such as overcharge, short circuit, and overheating protection. These features greatly reduce the risk of common battery failures, ensuring a safer and more reliable experience both in the air and on the ground.
FAQ
What is the largest power bank allowed on a plane?
The maximum size permitted for a single power bank on passenger aircraft is 160 watt-hours (Wh). Units up to 100Wh are generally allowed without restrictions, while those between 101Wh and 160Wh can be brought on board but require airline approval. Any power bank rated above 160Wh is strictly prohibited on commercial flights.
What batteries are allowed on a plane?
Lithium-ion batteries under 100Wh are generally permitted on flights and can be carried without restrictions, provided they remain in your carry-on luggage. Common examples include power banks, laptop batteries, and camera batteries.
What happens if a power bank is placed in checked luggage?
If a power bank is found in checked baggage, it will be confiscated and disposed of by airport security. Lithium-ion batteries are prohibited in the cargo hold because they pose a significant fire risk in a pressurized environment, where overheating or damage could go undetected. For safety, power banks must always be carried in your carry-on luggage.
What happens if a power bank exceeds the airline’s limit?
If your power bank is above the allowed capacity, airport security will confiscate it at the checkpoint. Regulations are enforced strictly, and any device exceeding the set watt-hour limits cannot be taken on board. In such cases, you’ll be required to surrender the power bank, and it will be disposed of by security personnel. To avoid losing your device, always confirm the Wh rating before travelling.
How do Canadian airline rules differ from TSA (U.S.) rules?
Canadian airline regulations, overseen by CATSA, are largely in line with the TSA rules in the United States. Both agencies classify power banks as lithium-ion batteries, enforce strict capacity limits, and require that they be carried in carry-on luggage only.
What is the rule for bringing a 20,000mAh power bank on a plane?
A standard 20,000mAh power bank usually has a rating of around 74Wh (calculated as 20,000 × 3.7V ÷ 1,000), which is comfortably under the 100Wh limit set by airlines. This means it is generally permitted in your carry-on luggage without requiring special approval. As with all lithium-ion batteries, it cannot be placed in checked baggage.
How can a power bank be used on a flight?
You can use a power bank in-flight to keep your phone, tablet, or other small devices charged, provided it remains in your carry-on bag. Some airlines may require that the power bank be turned off when not actively charging a device, so it’s best to follow crew instructions. What is strictly prohibited is placing or using a power bank in checked baggage, as this poses a serious safety hazard.
Which EcoFlow power bank is allowed on a plane?
EcoFlow’s smaller models, such as the EcoFlow RAPID Magnetic Power Bank (10,000mAh), are fully flight-approved since their capacity is well under the 100Wh limit. These compact units are ideal for charging phones, earbuds, and other small devices while travelling.
Conclusion
Choosing the right power bank for air travel is about more than convenience. It's also about safety and compliance. By understanding Canadian regulations, knowing the capacity limits, and selecting a trusted, high-quality product, you can travel with confidence and avoid unnecessary hassles at security. Following simple practices, such as keeping your power bank in carry-on luggage and maintaining it properly, ensures both safety and reliability. Whether you’re a frequent flyer who relies on multiple devices or someone preparing for a single long-haul journey, investing in a flight-approved power bank is a smart way to stay powered up and connected at every stage of your trip.