In a world of ever more digital devices, power banks have become essential friends for keeping linked and powered on-demand. Whether your trip is short or a long-haul flight, a power bank can literally save your life. Regarding air travel, nevertheless, the rules on bringing power batteries might be confusing. Could you thus pack your power bank for your next trip? The fast answer is: generally yes, but with some constraints.
Power Bank Policies: Knowledge You Should Have
Most airlines have specific policies on the movement of power banks considering the inherent fire hazards related with lithium-ion batteries. You should be mostly familiar with the following rules:
- Carry-on only applies to safety concerns, which make power banks strictly illegal in checked bags on all airlines. You have to pack those in your carry-on bags. This action reduces the fire danger as, in the cabin where lithium-ion batteries may be kept under supervision, mishaps involving them are easier to manage.
- Restriction of Capacity: Whether or whether you can carry your power bank on board mostly relies on its capacity. Usually speaking, power banks with a capacity of 100 watt-hours (Wh) or less are let without any specific permission. You might have to ask the airline especially authorization for power banks with capacities between 100Wh and 160Wh before your trip. Generally speaking, airplanes ban greater than 160Wh.
- Volume Restraints: Apart from those found in gadgets, most airlines allow customers to carry a maximum of two extra spare rechargeable batteries. This limit is meant to lower risk of overheating and fire.
- First of all, while carrying your power bank, safety always give it first importance. Avoid carrying faulty power banks and check your carry-on to make sure spare lithium batteries are not loose. Using coverings or cases will help to prevent probable hazards like short-circuit.
Traveling with a Power Bank: Advice
Consider the following to ensure a flawless use of your power bank throughout travel:
- Review Airline Policies: While there are general guidelines about power banks, specific airlines could have specific restrictions. Usually, it is wise to check the policies of your specific airline before you fly. This will help you to avoid any last-minute airport shocks.
- Choose the appropriate Power Bank. Select a power bank in line with airline criteria based on built-in safety features including temperature control, short circuit protection, and overcharge management. These features increase the travel-related safety of your smartphone.
- Pack wisely: Make sure your carry-on bag has your power bank right at hand. Security professionals may have to check it, thus having it readily available accelerates the screening process.
- In-flight charging: Although you may usually charge devices with your power bank all during the journey, it is essential to follow crew advice. Some airlines have specific policies prohibiting the use of devices, especially with reference to takeoff and landing.
Following these guidelines will enable you to ensure that your power bank conforms with airline policies and that your travel experience stays free from difficulties. When utilized properly, power banks can be really helpful and practical for your travel. Thus, pack sensibly, be educated, and keep your electronics charged without thinking about it.
