TSA battery rules: approved power banks & chargers

Mar 11, 2023

Travel often means long days for both you and your electronics. The best way to keep your devices charged throughout usage is by using a power bank. But, it can be tough to figure out what kind of mobile chargers fit within the Transportation Security Administration or Federal Aviation Administration's rules so they won't get taken away during check-in or at the security checkpoint.

What's allowed in — and prohibited from — your carry-on bag, according to the TSA's rules

All battery packs face very strict guidelines for air travel. Lithium-ion (rechargeable) batteries and portable batteries that contain lithium-ion can only be packed in carry-on baggage. They’re limited to a rating of 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery. With airline approval, you can bring two larger spare batteries (up to 160 Wh).

Here are our favorite battery packs that are within the FAA and TSA's rules so you can keep your smartphone, tablet, laptop or headphones juiced up during long airplane rides. Whether you need a boost to keep binge-watching your favorite series or keep up with calls before boarding, these portable chargers will have you covered.

Available in black or white, Aukey's power bank has a 10,000mAh battery to keep your devices charged through the two USB-A ports and single USB-C input/output port. It's slim in design and about the same size as your phone, so it’ll easily fit in pockets and bags. You can use the two USB-A ports to charge multiple devices at once, and the output maxes out at 12 watts for compatible devices.

This device has more than 20,000 5-star reviews on Amazon — and for good reason. It's dubbed as the thinnest 10,000mAh power bank on the market, making it ideal for travelers who want to stay charged on the go. It can charge an iPhone 8 more than three times. Plus, it's got a USB-C in/out port for added convenience. Perhaps best of all, it comes with a three-year warranty.

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