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Power banks in hand luggage and carry-on
Can you take a power bank on a plane? Here is what the UK CAA says, in plain English.
What the CAA says about power banks
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) gives these rules for power banks, spare batteries and vapes in its Pack Right guidance.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Hand luggage or checked bag? | Cabin only. The CAA says never to pack power banks, spare batteries or vapes in checked luggage, because they can overheat and cause a fire. |
| How many power banks? | The CAA says you can only take two power banks per person. |
| Size limit | Under 100Wh: common in phones, laptops and cameras. 100Wh to 160Wh: airline approval needed. Over 160Wh: not allowed in passenger baggage. |
| Charging on the plane | Power banks should never be recharged on board. |
| Where to keep it in the cabin | You may be asked to keep a power bank in the seat-back pocket rather than the overhead locker. |
Check your airline
The CAA says to always check with your airline, and to follow its baggage rules and the manufacturer's instructions. If your cabin bag is taken at the gate to go in the hold, remove any batteries or lithium-powered devices first. Source: CAA Pack Right guidance.
See also what you can take in hand luggage and liquids rules.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you take a power bank in hand luggage?
- Yes. The CAA says to always keep power banks with you in the cabin and never pack them in checked luggage.
- How many power banks can you take on a plane?
- The CAA says you can only take two power banks per person.
- What is the maximum power bank size on a plane?
- The CAA says under 100Wh is common in phones, laptops and cameras, 100Wh to 160Wh needs airline approval, and over 160Wh is prohibited in passenger baggage.
- Can you charge a power bank on a plane?
- The CAA says power banks should never be recharged on board the aircraft. Check your airline before using one to charge other devices.
- Can power banks go in checked baggage?
- No. The CAA says never to pack them in checked luggage, because they can overheat and cause a fire.
- Is hand luggage the same as carry-on?
- Yes. Hand luggage, cabin baggage and carry-on all mean the bag you take into the cabin.
Last checked 10 October 2026. Airlines can change their rules, so always confirm with your airline close to your travel date.