What Is TSA Portable Charger Policy?
TSA portable charger policies allow power banks and rechargeable batteries in carry-on luggage only, with capacity limits of ≤100Wh (watt-hours) without approval. For 101–160Wh, airline approval is required, while >160Wh units (like large solar generators) are banned. Lithium-ion batteries must be under 2g lithium content (≈25,700mAh at 3.7V). Damaged/swollen units are prohibited entirely. Pro Tip: Print your battery’s Wh specs—TSA agents often check labels.
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What are the capacity limits for portable chargers?
TSA caps portable chargers at 100Wh for unrestricted carry-on use. Larger 101–160Wh units require airline pre-approval, while anything exceeding 160Wh (common in camping batteries) is prohibited. Capacity is calculated as (mAh × Voltage) ÷ 1,000. Example: A 20,000mAh 5V power bank is 100Wh—exactly the limit. Pro Tip: Label your charger’s Wh to speed up security checks.
Lithium-ion batteries have a hidden restriction: ≤2 grams of lithium metal. This translates to ≈25,700mAh at 3.7V. Why the dual limits? Thermal runaway risks escalate with higher energy densities. Transitionally, while most consumer power banks stay under 100Wh, photographers’ equipment often pushes into the 101–160Wh zone. For instance, a RED Camera battery at 140Wh needs airline sign-off 72 hours pre-flight. Pro Tip: Carry manufacturer specs—TSA may request proof if labels fade.
| Capacity | Approval Needed? | Common Devices |
|---|---|---|
| ≤100Wh | No | Phones, tablets |
| 101–160Wh | Yes | Drones, pro cameras |
| >160Wh | Banned | Solar generators |
Can you bring multiple chargers?
Yes, but TSA’s “reasonable quantity” rule applies. Typically, 2–3 sub-100Wh chargers per passenger pass smoothly. However, bulk shipments (e.g., 10 phone banks) may raise suspicions of commercial intent. Practically speaking, spread units across bags to avoid triggering secondary inspections. Example: A photographer carrying 2x 98Wh camera batteries and 1x 50Wh phone charger faces no issues.
The key is balancing necessity and safety. While there’s no fixed numeric limit, agents assess context—a backpack with 10 identical chargers looks questionable. Transitionally, airlines like Delta allow up to 20 spare batteries if each is ≤160Wh. But what if you’re carrying mixed capacities? Prioritize labeling and segregation. Pro Tip: Use clear plastic bags for organization—TSA’s 3-1-1 liquid rules don’t apply, but transparency reduces delays.
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FAQs
Yes, but only in carry-ons and if individually protected. Loose batteries in checked bags risk confiscation.
Can power banks go in checked luggage?
No—TSA prohibits all lithium-based chargers in checked bags. Fire risks in cargo holds are unmanageable mid-flight.