Don’t Lose Your Power Bank: Must-Know Carry-On Rules Before Flying in 2025

Have you ever had to throw away your power bank at the airport?

Recently in South Korea, many travelers have been forced to discard their power banks at airport security checkpoints. For anyone traveling or on a business trip, this can be a frustrating and stressful experience.

Image Source: Martha Marshall blog

But this isn't just a Korean issue. In fact, there are international standards for carrying power banks on airplanes, and how each country or airline interprets and enforces those rules can vary. That’s why it can be confusing for travelers.

1. International Standards for Carrying Power Banks on Flights

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) provide global guidelines:

• Under 100Wh: Allowed in carry-on
• 100–160Wh: Requires airline approval
• Over 160Wh: Strictly prohibited
• Carry-on only: Never in checked baggage

Image Source: Claire Peters (via Bing)

2. Why Power Banks Became a Hot Topic in Korea

Since 2024, South Korea’s aviation authorities have started strictly enforcing labeling requirements for power banks. Unlabeled or unclear products are now banned, leading to many travelers discarding theirs at the airport.

3. Why Do Rules Vary by Airline or Airport?

While international standards provide the baseline, airlines and airport authorities may enforce stricter rules. Some may limit the number of power banks you can carry, and transit airports can have stricter checks.

4. Power Bank Rules by Country (Popular International Travel Destinations)

Country	Standard	Notable Points
USA (TSA)	Under 100Wh	No limit on quantity; 100–160Wh allowed with airline approval
UK (CAA)	Follows international standard	Max 2 recommended; lithium batteries carry-on only
South Korea	Follows international standard	Power banks without labeled specs (Wh/mAh) not allowed; stricter enforcement
Japan	Similar to international standard	Carry-on only; unlabeled batteries may be restricted
UAE (Dubai, etc.)	Follows international standard	Unlabeled batteries often confiscated at security; transit passengers also affected

Image Source: Artofit (via Bing)

5. Unique or Strict Rules in Certain Countries

Country	Special Regulation
China	Power banks over 20,000mAh (~74Wh) are generally prohibited
India	Some low-cost carriers ban power banks entirely
Russia	May require passengers to hold power banks in hand at security

6. Checklist: How to Carry Your Power Bank Safely

• Use certified power banks under 100Wh
• Make sure the product clearly shows Wh, mAh, and V
• Limit to 2–3 power banks per person
• Check airline’s carry-on battery policy before departure
• Review transit airport regulations if connecting flights are involved

7. Final Thoughts – Avoid Stress by Preparing in Advance

Power banks may seem like simple gadgets, but they’re classified as hazardous items due to the lithium-ion battery risk. That’s why international standards exist, and some countries enforce them more strictly.

Before flying, remember these 3 questions:

• ✅ Is it a certified product?
• ✅ Is it under 100Wh?
• ✅ Is it allowed in carry-on luggage?

With just a little preparation, you can avoid unnecessary stress and travel with peace of mind.

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References:

• IATA Guidance – https://www.iata.org/en/programs/ops-infra/baggage/personal-devices/
• TSA Battery Rules – https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/power-banks
• FAA Lithium Battery FAQ – https://www.faa.gov/hazmat/packsafe/resources/airline-passengers-batteries