Read this Before Packing a Power Bank for your Next Flight

There have been some significant changes regarding the rules for carrying portable batteries during air travel in 2025. In a recent update in their safety protocols, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and U.S. aviation authorities have shown special concern regarding the transportation of lithium-ion batteries, most commonly found in power banks and other rechargeable electronic devices. The aim of these newly introduced changes is to prevent any fire hazards mid-flight. 

The latest regulations by EASA state that packing portable batteries, also called power banks, in checked luggage will not be allowed, and such devices will have to be carried in the hand luggage. These changes take into account the risk of overheating in lithium batteries, short-circuiting, or catching fire when stowed in the cargo hold, where a fire may not be detected or extinguished in a timely manner. 

Lithium batteries are almost omnipresent in all our electronic devices, be it mobile phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, e-cigarettes, and even smart luggage. If these batteries are poorly made or somehow damaged, they have the risk of catching fire or combusting, sometimes with explosive force. 

The strict guidelines dictate that: 

• Power banks must be in hand luggage, not checked bags.  

• Only two spare batteries per person are allowed.  

• Each battery must be individually protected to avoid short circuits (e.g., covering terminals or storing in original packaging).  

• Recharging batteries during the flight is prohibited.  

• Power banks up to 100 Wh are permitted in most cases. Between 100–160 Wh may be allowed with prior airline approval. 

  
  

Other electronic items that will be affected include drones, cameras, vape pens and their respective batteries. For smart suitcases, the battery must be removable. Batteries must not exceed 2.7 Wh or 0.3 grams of lithium content. If the battery cannot be removed, the bag may be refused at check-in. 

Even if you pack the batteries correctly as instructed, if they are damaged or defective, they are still a risk to carry, and you are advised to check them before travel to avoid any accidents. 

Airports and airlines across the EU and U.S. are increasing enforcement, and security personnel may scan checked baggage for prohibited items. If a battery is found in checked luggage, you will have to face inconvenience in the form of delays, fines or having the item confiscated by the authorities.