If you thought your portable battery was an innocent companion on the go, think again. New rules from aviation authorities around the world mean you'll have to pack your electronic gadgets more thoughtfully. Size and capacity also matter. Read on! So - you can't keep this in your carry-on bag on a plane anymore!
You can no longer have this in your carry-on bag on a plane! In 2025, portable batteries (power banks) have become the new “prohibited” item in checked baggage. Once indispensable for long flights and unpredictable delays, they are now under the scrutiny of aviation authorities for safety reasons. European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have introduced stricter rules for transporting these devices. The reason? An increase in incidents involving lithium-ion batteries, which can cause fires on airplanes.
Why are portable batteries problematic?
Lithium-ion batteries, which power most portable power packs, can be dangerous if damaged, poorly manufactured, or misused. In such cases, a “thermal runaway” can occur, where the battery overheats, catches fire, or even explodes. If this happens in the cabin, the crew can take quick action. But if the incident occurs in the cargo hold, the consequences can be catastrophic. As a result, authorities around the world have introduced stricter rules for the transport of these devices.
New rules: What you need to know – you can no longer have this in your carry-on bag on the plane – be careful what kind of battery you have!
EASA and TSA now require that portable batteries be transported in carry-on luggage only. They are prohibited in checked baggage. This means that you must always keep your portable battery with you during the flight.
Size matters: Batteries with a capacity of up to 100 Wh are allowed in hand luggage without special permission. For batteries between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require prior approval from the airline. Batteries over 160 Wh are prohibited.
Each battery must be protected from short circuits. This can be achieved by covering the terminals with tape or storing the battery in its original packaging or plastic bag. Charging portable batteries or using them to charge other devices during the flight is not permitted. This reduces the risk of overheating or other problems during the flight.
What happens if you don't follow the rules?
If you try to carry a portable battery in your checked baggage, it may be confiscated, and you may also face a fine or be denied boarding. In the US, violators may also lose their right to expedited security screening (TSA PreCheck). In some cases, planes have had to make emergency landings due to overheating batteries, causing significant delays and costs.
Tips for safe travel – this is what you should no longer have in your bag on the plane
- Always check the capacity of your portable battery (marked in Wh).
- Carry portable batteries in your hand luggage and do not use them during the flight.
- Use only high-quality and tested batteries.
- If you notice the battery heating up, swelling, or emitting smoke, notify the crew immediately.
Conclusion: portable battery on an airplane – think twice
While portable batteries are convenient, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. By following the new EASA and TSA rules, you will ensure your safety and the safety of other passengers. Before your next flight, make sure you have packed your luggage properly and that your portable battery travels with you in the cabin.
