What size power bank can I take on United Airlines?
Up to 160 Wh.
Source: United Airlines official page, checked 6 Nov 2026
Quick answer
Yes, in your carry-on only. How many: Up to 2 spare lithium batteries of up to 160 Wh each. Maximum size: 160 Wh. On board: Not stated on the airline's page.
Source: United Airlines official page, checked 6 Nov 2026
How many
Up to 2 spare lithium batteries of up to 160 Wh each
Source: United Airlines, checked 6 Nov 2026
Maximum size
160 Wh
Source: United Airlines, checked 6 Nov 2026
Using it on board
Not stated on the airline's page
Source: United Airlines, checked 6 Nov 2026
Where to keep it
Carry-on only; never checked or gate-checked
Source: United Airlines, checked 6 Nov 2026
Can I take a 20,000 mAh power bank on United Airlines?
Yes. A typical 20,000 mAh power bank at 3.7 V is 74 Wh (20,000 × 3.7 ÷ 1,000). Check the Wh printed on yours.
Source: United Airlines official page, checked 6 Nov 2026
Can I take a 30,000 mAh power bank on United Airlines?
Yes. A typical 30,000 mAh power bank at 3.7 V is 111 Wh, which is over 100 Wh.
Source: United Airlines official page, checked 6 Nov 2026
Can I put a power bank in checked baggage on United Airlines?
No. Power banks are banned in checked bags on every airline, including bags checked at the gate. Take it out and carry it in the cabin.
Source: IATA guidance on the ICAO rule, checked 6 Nov 2026
Is there a national power bank rule in the United States?
Yes: Portable chargers/power banks with lithium-ion batteries must be in carry-on bags, not checked (Transportation Security Administration (TSA), from ongoing).
Source: tsa.gov
How many Wh is my power bank?
Wh = mAh × volts ÷ 1,000. Most power banks use 3.7 V cells. The last column applies United Airlines' rule.
| Capacity | Watt-hours at 3.7 V | Allowed on United Airlines? |
|---|---|---|
| 10,000 mAh | 37 Wh | Yes |
| 20,000 mAh | 74 Wh | Yes |
| 26,800 mAh | 99.2 Wh | Yes |
| 30,000 mAh | 111 Wh | Yes |
Source: FAA PackSafe: lithium batteries, checked 6 Nov 2026