One of the most widespread mistakes is placing a power bank in checked baggage. IATA advises that portable batteries should be protected and carried in cabin baggage, where they remain accessible to both passengers and crew. This is essential because it allows any incident to be identified and addressed quickly. In the cargo hold, by contrast, a thermal event may be more difficult to detect and manage without delay.
Power banks are spare batteries intended to recharge other electronic equipment. For this reason, they are treated differently from a mobile phone or laptop with an installed battery. IATA advises passengers to keep them under supervision, avoid physical damage and protect their terminals against possible short circuits. An individual sleeve, suitable case or protective pouch can help prevent contact with keys, coins or other metal objects.
The association also highlights the need to check each airline’s specific requirements before travelling. Although common international guidelines exist, rules may vary according to the country, airport, airline and the battery’s technical specifications. Some airlines, for example, set limits on the number of power banks each passenger may carry, prohibit charging them during the flight or restrict their use to power other devices on board.
Battery capacity is another decisive factor. It is generally expressed in watt-hours, identified by the abbreviation Wh, and determines whether a device may be carried without authorisation, requires prior approval or is not permitted as passenger baggage. As a general rule, batteries rated at up to 100 Wh may be carried in the cabin without additional authorisation. Those between 100 and 160 Wh usually require airline approval and are subject to quantity limits. Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are not accepted under the usual passenger exemptions.
IATA has also indicated that its preliminary guidance for future dangerous goods regulations considers a 100 Wh limit for this type of portable battery. For this reason, checking the manufacturer’s label before leaving home is a practical and advisable step. If the capacity is not clearly marked or cannot be verified, the airline or security personnel may prevent the item from continuing its journey.
Confusion surrounding checked baggage remains a significant concern. A considerable number of passengers mistakenly believe they can place a power bank in checked luggage. The distinction between a power bank and a device with an installed battery is essential. A phone, camera or laptop that meets the relevant requirements may, in certain circumstances, be placed in checked baggage, but it must be completely switched off, protected against damage and secured against accidental activation. Even so, carrying these devices in the cabin remains the preferable option.
It is equally important not to travel with batteries that are damaged, swollen, leaking or have shown signs of abnormal overheating. Devices that have been recalled for safety reasons should not be included in luggage either. Such cases can increase the risk of thermal runaway, a reaction that generates intense heat and requires rapid intervention to prevent it from spreading.
Safety begins before boarding. Checking the airline’s rules, carrying power banks in the cabin, protecting them properly and knowing their capacity are straightforward steps that reduce risk and help avoid travel disruptions. Following these recommendations enables travellers to make full use of technology throughout their journey without compromising the safety of everyone on board.
