YES — Allowed in Carry-on Bags on United Airlines
Lithium-ion power banks are strictly prohibited in checked baggage because of the risk of thermal runaway and fire in the cargo hold. They must be carried in the cabin.
Can you bring power bank (lithium battery) on United Airlines?
Quick Answer
Yes — Power Bank (Lithium Battery) is allowed in carry-on bags on United Airlines flights. Lithium-ion power banks are strictly prohibited in checked baggage because of the risk of thermal runaway and fire in the cargo hold. They must be carried in the cabin.
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What is power bank (lithium battery)?
Power Bank (Lithium Battery) is a common item that passengers frequently pack when traveling. Often referred to as portable charger, external battery, battery pack, air france power bank rules, air france battery policy, air france powerbank, air france powerbank limit, air france power bank, air france powerbank rules, air france portable charger policy, power bank air france, powerbank air france, delta battery pack policy, delta portable battery, delta power bank rules, delta battery pack, delta airlines power bank rules, delta portable charger policy, united power bank rules, united airlines powerbank, united airlines powerbank rules, lufthansa portable charger rules, lufthansa lithium batteries, british airways battery policy, ba lithium batteries, ryanair lithium battery policy, ryanair camera batteries, tsa power bank rules, tsa rules for power banks, does tsa allow power banks, can you bring portable chargers on planes, are battery packs allowed on carry on, flying with lithium batteries, it is classified under the Electronics category by aviation security authorities. When preparing for a trip, understanding exactly what this item is and how it functions can help you determine the best way to pack it in compliance with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations. Generally, guidelines for traveling with power bank (lithium battery) in your luggage. Making sure you properly identify the item before arriving at the airport checkpoint ensures a smoother screening process.
Allowed In Cabin
Lithium-ion power banks are strictly prohibited in checked baggage because of the risk of thermal runaway and fire in the cargo hold. They must be carried in the cabin.
Prohibited In Hold
Lithium-ion power banks are strictly prohibited in checked baggage because of the risk of thermal runaway and fire in the cargo hold. They must be carried in the cabin.
Airline & Country Specific Baggage Checker
Select your airline or destination to verify tailored limits for Power Bank (Lithium Battery).
FAA & United Airlines Regulation for Battery Devices
49 CFR § 175.10(a)(18) — FAA & Airline Policy
Under Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) HazMat safety regulations (49 CFR § 175.10(a)(18)) and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, lithium-ion batteries powering power bank (lithium battery) are capped at 100 Watt-hours (Wh) per battery for standard carry-on. Spare batteries between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require explicit airline approval. Uninstalled lithium batteries are strictly prohibited in checked cargo holds because cargo fires involving lithium chemistries cannot be easily extinguished in flight.
Security Checkpoint Screening Procedure
During security screening for power bank (lithium battery), any device larger than a standard smartphone (such as laptops, tablets, or large camera equipment) must be removed from your carry-on luggage and placed in a dedicated screening bin with nothing underneath or on top. Power banks, spare lithium-ion batteries, and rechargeable devices must remain in your carry-on luggage and are strictly forbidden in checked baggage due to FAA cargo fire safety protocols. Turn off high-capacity battery units to prevent accidental activation during flight.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide for United Airlines Passengers
Check container size or battery specifications to verify power bank (lithium battery) meets TSA carry-on limits.
Place power bank (lithium battery) in a protective case or clear pouch near the top of your carry-on bag for quick access.
If power bank (lithium battery) features a power switch or heating element, ensure it is completely powered off or safety-locked to prevent accidental activation during travel.
At the security line, remove power bank (lithium battery) from your main bag only if requested by officers or if it contains large electronics/liquids.
Store your bag in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you once boarded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Verified Travel Information
This document has been rigorously reviewed and verified by our travel reference editors. All statuses, notes, and guidelines are checked against live security feeds from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), and CBP (Customs and Border Protection).