Lithium Battery Rules on Planes 2026
The core rule: all loose lithium batteries go in carry-on only — never checked bags. Power banks ≤100 Wh are allowed in unlimited quantities in carry-on.
| Device | Carry-on | Checked bag |
|---|---|---|
| Power banks ≤100 Wh | ✓ Unlimited | ✗ Never |
| Power banks 100–160 Wh | ✓ Max 2 (airline approval) | ✗ Never |
| Laptop (in bag) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Spare laptop/camera batteries | ✓ Yes (≤100 Wh) | ✗ Never |
| E-cigarettes / vapes | ✓ Yes | ✗ Never |
Wh calculator: Wh = (mAh × V) ÷ 1000. Most power banks use 3.7V. 20,000 mAh = 74 Wh ✓. 30,000 mAh = 111 Wh ⚠ (needs airline approval).
Related: TSA power bank rules · Airline power bank limits · Carry-On Size Checker