Check-in and security checks at the airport are stressful enough, so why complicate your trip even further and risk having your power bank or laptop confiscated? We'll tell you which electronics you can (and can't) take on a plane or why some airlines don't allow you to use power banks during a flight.
Anyone who has ever flown knows this well. Airport security checks are strict, and so are the limits on electronics. But now you know how to prepare.
What can be in your hand luggage and what you won't be allowed on board
If you don't travel often, you might be surprised to learn that you can't take any electronics on board a plane. There are rules about this, but fortunately they are pretty much the same all over the world (with a few exceptions).
Which electronics belong in hand luggage?
In general, anything that has a flashlight should fly with you on board . Your carry-on electronics luggage should primarily include:
- mobile phone
- tablet
- laptop
- game console
- power bank
- electronic cigarettes
The main reason for this rule is safety, specifically an effort to prevent the risk of batteries overheating or exploding in the aircraft's cargo hold.
However, you can put a turned-off laptop or mobile phone in your checked luggage, but this is not recommended due to the risk of theft or damage.
What must be in checked baggage?
Checked baggage includes everything else, i.e. items without batteries or with permanently installed batteries (e.g. some larger photography and filming equipment).
No spare batteries or power banks should be left in the aircraft's luggage compartment; security controls and airlines are strict about this.
Below we have prepared a clear table for you to easily navigate.
|
Electronics type |
Hand luggage (deck) |
Checked in (suitcase) |
Note |
|
Mobile phone, tablet, laptop |
Yes |
Yes* |
They can usually be put in the trunk if they are completely turned off, but it is recommended to take them on board due to the risk of damage/theft. |
|
Power bank |
Yes |
NO |
They pose a fire risk in the cargo area. |
|
Spare battery (Li-ion) |
Yes |
NO |
It must be in your hand luggage, ideally with the contacts taped over. |
|
E-cigarettes |
Yes |
NO |
Due to the risk of accidental switching on and fire, it is not allowed below deck. |
|
Headphones |
Yes |
Yes |
Both wired and wireless can go anywhere without any problems. |
|
Camera / Camcorder |
Yes |
Yes |
The batteries inside are fine, but the spare batteries have to be carried on board. |
|
Electronics without battery |
Yes |
Yes |
For example, a shaver in a drawer or a hairdryer can go in both pieces of luggage. |
TIP: Need a new power bank and don't know which one to choose? Read our detailed guide to power banks .
What about power banks on the plane?
Power banks are a separate chapter in terms of flying rules, which we will help you navigate easily. Don't worry, it's not a science.
You already know the basic rule: a power bank must always be with you on board . Unfortunately, this is not the only limitation, it also depends on what kind of power bank you take with you.
Can a 30,000 mAh power bank be taken on a plane?
It mainly depends on the capacity of your power bank. Once you exceed the limit, security or the airline may not let you board with your device.
We always recommend reading the specific airline's restrictions, but in general, these rules apply:
Power banks with a capacity of up to 100 Wh
They can normally be carried in hand luggage, typically devices with a capacity of 10,000–20,000 mAh.
Power banks with a capacity of 101–160 Wh
This category usually allows a maximum of 2 items per person and may require airline approval. This also includes commonly sold power banks with a capacity of 30,000 mAh or more , which you risk confiscating at security without carrier approval.
Power banks with a capacity of more than 160 Wh
In this case, you'll come across them, typically power banks with a capacity of over 43,500 mAh or more. The exception is special devices, such as wheelchairs with batteries.
What data on the power bank should you follow?
Some power banks list capacity in watt hours (Wh), others in milliampere hours (mAh) and volts (V).
Whatever the rating on your power bank, you can always convert units using a simple formula: Wh = (mAh ÷ 1000) × V.
Example: 20,000 mAh × 3.7 V = 74 Wh (well within the 100 Wh limit).
How does Emirates and other airlines handle using power banks in flight?
Most airlines allow you to charge your phone and other devices with a power bank during the flight, but airlines are gradually starting to prohibit this.
These are mainly Asian or Australian companies. For example, Qantas , Jetstar and Virgin Australia will continue to allow passengers to carry up to two power banks up to 160 Wh from December 2025, but they will not allow them to be used or charged during the flight. Similarly, Emirates will ban the use of power banks on board from October 1, 2025: you can have one, but only under the seat or in the seat pocket.
Popular European airlines (e.g. Ryanair or Smartwings ) do not have this ban, but they do restrict the use of power banks during takeoff and landing.
Do you want to be sure that you will be allowed on the plane with your power bank? We recommend the FIXED Zen 20 Pro power bank with LCD display. (capacity 20,000mAh) or FIXED MagZen 10 Crystal with wireless charging (10,000 mAh capacity).
Beware of electronic cigarettes on airplanes
Electronic cigarettes deserve special attention, which, as we have already mentioned, must also be in your hand luggage on board.
However, there is also a ban on using and charging e-cigarettes on an airplane (including IQOS), under threat of heavy fines.
How many electronics can you take?
Common equipment like a mobile phone, laptop, tablet, camera, and power bank is fine and no one will bother you with it.
1-2 devices of each type per person and 1-2 power banks per person are considered a standard that will pass without blinking an eye.
In any case, the more electronics you pack into your backpack, the greater the chance that they will "grab" you for a detailed inspection.
When it comes to batteries, IATA (International Air Transport Association) rules allow up to 20 small batteries, but a specific airline or country may have its own stricter limits.
Now you know everything important and you can travel without any worries!
If you need help choosing a power bank or other accessories from FIXED, feel free to write to us in the chat here on the website.
Answers to frequently asked questions
Can a power bank go in checked luggage?
No, the power bank must always be in hand luggage only, it is prohibited in checked luggage.
How many power banks can I have on board?
Generally, you can have 2 pieces with a capacity of up to 100 Wh. But always check the rules of the specific airline.
Do Bluetooth headphones work on a plane?
Yes, they work, even in airplane mode if you have it activated.
