We find it hard to imagine the embarrassment of our baggage catching fire, while we are in an airplane. Why, the unapproving looks from the other passengers might make us want to hide in the baggage hold. Perhaps, someday, we will be able to purchase fully-charged power banks at every destination. Meanwhile the debate rages on. Should you take a power bank on a plane?
Will the Carrier Allow a Power Bank on the Aircraft?
Perhaps your carrier already made the decision for you. This is a rapidly changing space, so we won’t provide a list. Check with your carrier before you set off for the airport, so you don’t have to surrender your power bank when checking in.
If your carrier allows the power bank, then the next question to answer is, how should you carry your power bank on the plane? As a general rule, the answer is never in the aircraft hold. It must be part of your carry-on luggage, if the airline allows it on the plane.
You may, however, be able to check in your laptop and camera as hold baggage, provided they are fully powered down, and completely switched off. But your spare batteries will have to be with you in your hand baggage, just like your power bank.
More Rules Before You Carry Batteries on a Plane
Loose batteries may short-circuit and overheat, if their terminals touch anything that conducts their power. If you think this getting too technical, please bear in mind we are trying to help you arrive safely at your destination. There is more to this than just taking a power bank on a plane!
- Keep your spare batteries in their original packaging, which should protect them from short-circuiting.
- Pack any loose batteries in separate zip-lock bags. Tape over the terminals before you do this, as an added precaution.
Treat all batteries and their devices the same way when flying, whether they are lithium-ion or not. That way, you are most unlikely to face the embarrassment of your baggage catching fire on an airplane.
More Information
Did a Power Bank Destroy an Airliner?
