Can I Bring a 30,000mAh Power Bank on a Plane? TSA & Customs

If you rely on a CPAP machine, insulin pump, or another essential medical device, ensuring you have a reliable power source while flying is critical. Many travelers wonder, “Can I bring a 30,000mAh power bank on a plane?” The answer depends on its watt-hour (Wh) rating, as TSA and airlines regulate power banks based on their battery capacity.

Power banks are a convenient way to keep medical devices charged during a flight, but they must comply with TSA regulations, airline policies, and international travel restrictions.

Lithium-ion batteries pose fire risks, which is why power banks are only allowed in carry-on bags and must meet strict capacity limits.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about bringing a power bank on a plane for medical devices, including TSA watt-hour limits, airline approvals, packing tips, and security screening procedures. You want to be up on these rules to avoid travel delays and ensure your medical equipment stays powered throughout your journey.

1. What Power Banks Are Allowed on a Plane?

Power banks contain lithium-ion batteries, which are regulated by airlines and aviation authorities to reduce fire risks. The key restrictions focus on battery type, capacity, and placement in luggage.

1.1 Battery Type

Only lithium-ion and lithium-polymer power banks are allowed on planes, but they must always be carried in carry-on luggage. Packing them in checked baggage is prohibited because of fire hazards. Airlines and airport security take this rule seriously, and checked luggage containing power banks may be delayed or removed.

1.2 Capacity Limits

The watt-hour (Wh) rating of your power bank determines whether you can bring it on a plane. If you’re unsure of your power bank’s Wh rating, find the voltage and ampere hours from the back of the charger or from outside the box and use this formula:

Wh = Voltage (V) × Ampere-hours (Ah)

• Under 100Wh: These power banks are permitted (in carry on) without restrictions. Most portable power banks for CPAP machines, insulin pumps, and nebulizers fall under this limit.
• 101-160Wh: Allowed only with airline approval. Some larger CPAP or portable oxygen concentrator (POC) batteries fall in this range. Travelers must contact their airline in advance for permission.
• Over 160Wh: Prohibited from air travel. If your device requires more power, you’ll need to carry multiple smaller power banks that comply with TSA limits.

1.3 Quantity Limits

There are specific limits on how many power banks you can bring, depending on their capacity.

• For batteries under 100Wh, there is no strict quantity limit, but they must be for personal use only.
• For power banks between 101-160Wh, most airlines allow a maximum of two per passenger, provided they have been pre-approved.
• Larger power banks exceeding 160Wh are not permitted on flights, even with approval.

1.4 Placement and Packing

To comply with TSA regulations, all power banks must be:

• Stored in carry-on luggage. Checked luggage is NOT an option.
• Protected from damage. Store them in a dedicated battery case or a fireproof battery pouch.
• Easily accessible. Security officers may ask you to remove them for screening.

KEEN TIP: Did you goof and pack your power bank in your checked bag? No need for a stroke! Read our informative guide “Accidentally Left Battery in Checked Luggage!” for the immediate steps to take.

2. TSA and Airline Rules for Medical Device Power Banks

TSA follows Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, which apply to all flights departing from or within the U.S. However, individual airlines may have additional restrictions, especially for larger power banks.

• Power banks under 100Wh are generally permitted without restrictions.
• Power banks between 101-160Wh require advance approval from the airline. Some airlines allow them only for medical devices.
• International flights may have different regulations. Some countries, like China, impose stricter limits, such as a two-battery maximum, even if both are under 100Wh.

For travelers relying on power banks for medical devices, it is always best to contact your airline in advance to confirm specific policies. You can also reach out to the embassy for your country located at your destination. If you are traveling from the US, check embassy contact information.

3. Flying with Power Banks for Specific Medical Devices

Different medical devices have different power needs. Here’s a good breakdown:

3.1 CPAP Machines

• CPAP machines require 12-24V DC power and do not operate on standard USB power banks.
• A 100Wh power bank can run a CPAP machine for 6-8 hours without humidification.
• If using a humidifier, a larger 150-300Wh battery may be needed, which requires airline approval.

Some CPAP-specific power banks, such as the Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite (94Wh), are designed to be TSA-compliant and are a good option for travel.

3.2 Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs)

• POCs may require higher wattage than CPAP machines, depending on the flow rate.
• Batteries for continuous-flow concentrators may exceed 100Wh, meaning airline approval is required.
• Some airlines allow up to two 160Wh power banks with advance permission.

It is important to check the watt-hour rating of your battery and confirm that it complies with both TSA and airline policies.

3.3 Insulin Pumps & Nebulizers

• These devices consume less power and typically charge via USB (5V output).
• A 10,000-20,000mAh power bank (37-74Wh) is sufficient for multiple charges.
• Because they fall under 100Wh, these power banks are allowed without restrictions.

KEEN TIP: Bring backup power banks (in your carry on bag) to ensure continuous operation, especially on long flights or layovers.

4. How to Choose a TSA-Compliant Power Bank

Selecting the right power bank for your medical device involves more than just picking any portable charger. You must ensure it meets airline regulations, provides sufficient power for your device, and is safe for travel.

To avoid any issues at security checkpoints or in-flight, follow these key factors when choosing a power bank:

4.1 Capacity: Understanding Watt-Hour Limits

The most important factor when selecting a power bank for travel is its watt-hour (Wh) rating. TSA and airlines enforce strict rules based on power bank capacity:

Not sure of sure of your power bank’s watt-hour rating? Calculate it using this formula:

Wh = Voltage (V) × Ampere-hours (Ah): For example, a power bank rated at 3.7V and 20,000mAh (20Ah) has: 3.7V × 20Ah = 74Wh. Since 74Wh is under 100Wh, it can be carried on a plane without restrictions.

KEEN TIP: If your medical device requires more power than one 100Wh battery can provide, carry two smaller power banks rather than one larger unit.

4.2 Airline-Approved Power Banks for Medical Devices

Not all power banks are created equal. Many consumer-grade power banks are designed for smartphones and tablets, not medical equipment. Medical devices such as CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and insulin pumps often have different power requirements.

To ensure compatibility:

• Check manufacturer recommendations. Some CPAP and oxygen concentrator brands specify approved power banks.
• Choose a power bank with DC output. Most CPAP machines do not run on USB power alone and require 12-24V DC output.
• Avoid unbranded or uncertified batteries. Cheap, untested batteries may fail mid-flight or trigger security concerns.

Some TSA-compliant power banks designed for medical devices include:

• Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite (94Wh) – Ideal for ResMed CPAP machines, designed specifically for air travel.
• Zopec Explore 5500 (99Wh) – A lightweight CPAP-compatible power bank that stays under TSA limits.
• ChargeTech Portable AC Battery (94Wh) – Works with multiple medical devices via standard AC and DC outputs.

KEEN TIP: Typically what is allowed by TSA is permitted by most airlines and many, but not all, countries overseas. You wold be wise to check with your airline or embassy.

4.3 Carrying Multiple Power Banks for Extra Power

If your medical device requires more than 100Wh of power for an extended trip, split your power needs across multiple smaller batteries rather than a single high-capacity unit.

For example, instead of using one 200Wh power bank, you could carry two 99Wh power banks, which meet TSA guidelines and avoid airline restrictions.

Most airlines allow up to two spare power banks between 101-160Wh with approval. If your trip requires extensive use of your medical device, it’s worth contacting your airline to ask about approval for higher-capacity batteries.

4.4 Choosing the Right Ports and Outputs

Different medical devices require different charging ports. Before selecting a power bank, check what type of connection your device needs:

• CPAP machines – Require 12-24V DC output (not just USB). Look for power banks with DC ports or AC outlets.
• Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) – May require higher wattage; check the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Insulin pumps & nebulizers – Typically charge via USB (5V output), making most standard power banks compatible.

If your power bank does not match your device’s requirements, you may need a compatible adapter or converter. Some airlines also provide in-seat power, but the wattage may be too low to power medical equipment directly.

4.5 Safety Features to Look For

Because power banks contain lithium-ion batteries, overheating or accidental activation is a concern. Choose a power bank with:

• Overcharge protection – Prevents excessive charging that can damage the battery.
• Short-circuit protection – Reduces the risk of electrical failures.
• Fireproof casing – Helps prevent damage in case of overheating.
• Auto shut-off function – Turns off the battery when not in use.

KEEN TIP: I recommend you store larger power banks in a fireproof battery pouch just to be safe.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

5.1 Can I bring a power bank in my checked luggage if I don’t need to use it?

NO. TSA and airlines prohibit power banks from being packed in checked baggage due to the risk of fire. Even if the power bank is not in use, it must be carried in your carry-on bag.

5.2 Do I need a doctor’s note to bring a power bank for a medical device?

No, but it can be helpful—especially for international travel. A doctor’s note confirming the medical necessity of your device may help if customs officers ask why you are carrying extra power banks. While not required, it’s a good precaution.

5.3 Can I use my power bank during the flight?

Most airlines allow passengers to use power banks during the flight, but some restrict usage during takeoff and landing. Check with your airline before boarding. If your power bank has an AC outlet, it may be subject to additional airline restrictions.

5.4 What happens if my power bank is flagged during TSA screening?

If TSA or customs selects your power bank for additional screening, they will likely inspect its watt-hour rating and verify its purpose. To avoid delays:

• Make sure the Wh rating is printed on the power bank.
• Be ready to explain that it is for a medical device.
• Keep it easily accessible in your carry-on.

If your power bank exceeds TSA limits, you may be required to leave it behind or check with your airline for alternative options.

5.5 Do international airports have different rules for power banks?

Yes. While TSA sets rules for U.S. airports, other countries may have additional restrictions. Some examples:

• China: Limits passengers to two power banks under 100Wh each.
• European Union: Follows similar rules to TSA but may require extra screening.
• Middle East (Dubai, Qatar, Saudi Arabia): Some airlines require power banks to be declared at check-in.

Always check your destination country’s aviation authority rules before flying with a power bank internationally.

6. Wrap Up

Flying with a 30,000mAh power bank or any battery-powered medical device requires careful planning to comply with TSA, airline, and customs regulations. Ensuring your power bank meets watt-hour limits, is packed correctly, and is airline-approved can prevent travel delays and keep your essential medical equipment powered throughout your trip.

• Know Your Limits: Power banks under 100Wh are generally allowed, while 101-160Wh requires airline approval. Over 160Wh is prohibited on flights.
• Carry-On Only: Power banks must always be in carry-on luggage, never in checked bags. Keep them accessible for TSA screening.
• Medical Device Considerations: CPAP machines, portable oxygen concentrators, and insulin pumps may need higher-capacity batteries. If your device requires more than 100Wh, bring two smaller power banks instead of one large one.
• International Travel & Customs: Some countries have stricter power bank limits. Always check customs regulations at your destination before flying.
• Plan for In-Flight Power Needs: If your airline provides in-seat power, confirm the wattage before relying on it. Carrying a backup TSA-compliant battery ensures uninterrupted use of medical devices.

Follow these TSA, airline, and customs guidelines, and travel stress-free with your power bank.