Power banks on flights: two per person, 160Wh max, no charging on board

If you usually carry three power banks, this rule is worth checking. According to the Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, from April 20, 2026 each passenger may carry only two power banks into the cabin, and using them on board is no longer allowed.

Based on reporting on the ministry’s announcement and an airline notice, this guide explains what changed and what to prepare so you don’t have to leave a battery behind at the airport.

What changed

You may carry up to two power banks per person, each 160Wh (about 43,000mAh) or less. According to the report, the ministry’s proposal was adopted as an international standard by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Use on board has changed too. Charging a power bank from the seat outlet and charging your phone from a power bank are both prohibited.

How to check your battery’s capacity

The back of a power bank usually shows mAh and voltage (V). Watt-hours are calculated as mAh × V ÷ 1000.

For example, a 20,000mAh, 3.7V unit is about 74Wh, well within the 160Wh limit. If the label is worn off and unreadable, ask your airline in advance, as it may be hard to assess at the airport.

Carry-on only, never in checked bags

Power banks may only travel in your carry-on. If one is packed in checked baggage, it may be flagged at screening and you may have to take it out, so set them aside while packing.

On board, airlines advise keeping them on your person or somewhere you can see, such as the seat pocket. Details can vary slightly by airline.

Packing to prevent short circuits

Cover the terminals with insulating tape, or put each power bank in its own zip bag or pouch, so it can’t touch metal objects and short-circuit. Since you can’t charge your phone from a power bank on board, charge it fully before boarding.

Five checks before you leave

• Cut down to two power banks or fewer
• Check the label: 160Wh or less each
• Tape the terminals or bag each one separately
• Take them out of your checked luggage
• Fully charge your phone before boarding