Have you ever found yourself in that all-too-familiar pre-flight scramble, double-checking your bags, and then a sudden thought strikes: "Can I bring my trusty power bank on this Southwest Airlines flight?" If so, you're not alone! With our reliance on devices, power banks have become essential travel companions. However, understanding the rules and regulations can be a bit confusing. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about bringing power banks on Southwest Airlines, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.
Your Ultimate Guide: Power Banks on Southwest Airlines
Bringing a power bank on your Southwest Airlines flight is absolutely possible, but it comes with specific rules you must follow. These rules are in place for the safety of all passengers and crew, primarily due to the potential fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries. Southwest Airlines has even implemented a stricter policy than general FAA guidelines, so paying close attention to the details is crucial.
Step 1: Understand the Golden Rule of Power Banks – Carry-On Only!
First things first, and this is non-negotiable for any airline, including Southwest: Power banks are NEVER allowed in checked baggage.
Why? Because power banks contain lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat and potentially cause a fire. In the unlikely event of an incident in the cabin, it can be quickly identified and dealt with by the flight crew. In the cargo hold, a fire could go unnoticed until it becomes a much more serious threat. So, always pack your power bank in your carry-on bag. If your carry-on bag is gate-checked for any reason, you must remove your power bank and keep it with you in the cabin.
Step 2: Decode the Watt-Hour (Wh) Limit
This is where things can get a little technical, but it's vital. The capacity of power banks is often listed in milliamp-hours (mAh), but airline regulations are typically based on Watt-hours (Wh).
Sub-heading: Converting mAh to Wh
To determine if your power bank meets the airline's capacity limits, you'll need to convert its mAh rating to Wh. It's a simple formula:
Watt-hours (Wh) = (mAh × Voltage (V)) / 1000
Most power banks use lithium-ion batteries with a standard voltage of 3.7V.
Example 1: If you have a 10,000 mAh power bank: Wh = (10,000 mAh × 3.7V) / 1000 = 37 Wh
Example 2: If you have a 20,000 mAh power bank: Wh = (20,000 mAh × 3.7V) / 1000 = 74 Wh
Sub-heading: General Wh Limits for Air Travel
The general guidelines for power banks on most airlines, including Southwest, are:
Up to 100 Wh: Most common power banks fall into this category (typically up to ~27,000 mAh). These are generally allowed in your carry-on without special approval. You can usually bring multiple power banks within this limit, but airlines often suggest a reasonable number for personal use (e.g., up to two, though some allow more as long as the total capacity is compliant).
Between 100 Wh and 160 Wh: These are higher-capacity power banks, often used for charging laptops. For these, you typically need airline approval before bringing them on board. Most airlines limit you to a maximum of two such spare batteries.
Exceeding 160 Wh: Power banks with a capacity greater than 160 Wh are generally NOT allowed on flights, either in carry-on or checked baggage.
Always check the label on your power bank for its Wh rating, or do the conversion yourself. If your power bank doesn't list the voltage, assume 3.7V for lithium-ion.
Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with Southwest Airlines' Specific In-Flight Usage Policy
This is where Southwest Airlines has implemented a stricter policy that sets it apart from many other carriers.
Effective May 28, 2025, Southwest Airlines has a new rule:
Power banks must be visible and powered off when not in use.
You are NOT allowed to charge your phone or other devices with a portable power bank if the power bank is stored inside your carry-on bag or in the overhead bins.
When charging your device with a power bank, the power bank must be in plain sight (e.g., in your seat pocket or on your tray table).
This proactive measure is a direct response to increasing concerns about lithium-ion battery incidents (overheating, smoke, or even fire) on flights. By requiring power banks to be visible when in use, flight attendants can quickly identify and intervene in case of any issues.
Sub-heading: What This Means for You
No "charging in the bag": This is the key takeaway. Don't simply plug in your phone to a power bank inside your backpack and put the backpack under the seat or in the overhead bin.
Visibility is paramount: If you're using your power bank to charge a device, make sure both the power bank and the device are out in the open where they can be seen.
Power off when stored: When you're done charging and are stowing your power bank, ensure it's powered off.
Step 4: Protect Your Power Bank (and Others!)
Protecting the terminals of your power bank is an important safety measure to prevent short circuits, which can lead to overheating and fire.
Use the original retail packaging: If you still have it, the original packaging often provides adequate protection.
Place in a protective case or bag: A small, non-conductive pouch or case can help prevent accidental contact with metal objects (like keys or coins) in your bag.
Tape over exposed terminals: If your power bank has exposed metal charging prongs or terminals, you can use electrical tape or even regular Scotch tape to cover them.
Step 5: Pack Strategically for Security Checks
When going through airport security, you may be asked to remove your power bank from your bag for separate screening.
Keep it easily accessible: Don't bury your power bank at the bottom of your carry-on. Place it in a side pocket or at the top of your bag for quick retrieval. This will save you time and hassle at the security checkpoint.
Be prepared to present it: If asked by a TSA agent, simply hand them your power bank for inspection.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to bring your power bank on your Southwest Airlines flight safely and in compliance with all regulations.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions, specifically starting with "How to," related to bringing power banks on Southwest Airlines:
How to calculate the Watt-hours (Wh) of my power bank?
To calculate Wh, multiply your power bank's mAh rating by its voltage (usually 3.7V for lithium-ion), then divide by 1000. So, Wh = (mAh x V) / 1000.
How to know if my power bank is allowed on a Southwest Airlines flight?
Check its Watt-hour (Wh) rating. Power banks up to 100 Wh are generally allowed in carry-on. Between 101 Wh and 160 Wh, airline approval is required for up to two spares. Over 160 Wh is prohibited. Remember, always carry-on.
How to pack my power bank safely for air travel?
Always pack your power bank in your carry-on bag. Protect its terminals from short circuits by using its original packaging, a protective case, or by taping over exposed terminals.
How to use my power bank on a Southwest Airlines flight under the new policy?
You must keep your power bank visible (e.g., in the seat pocket or on the tray table) when charging a device. Do not charge devices with your power bank inside your carry-on bag or in the overhead bin.
How to handle my power bank during security screening?
Have your power bank easily accessible in your carry-on bag. Be prepared to remove it and place it in a separate bin for X-ray screening if requested by TSA agents.
How to determine the voltage of my power bank if it's not listed?
Most lithium-ion power banks operate at a nominal voltage of 3.7V. If your power bank doesn't specify, it's generally safe to assume 3.7V for calculation purposes.
How to bring multiple power banks on Southwest Airlines?
You can generally bring multiple power banks as long as each individual power bank adheres to the Wh limits (e.g., under 100 Wh each) and you don't exceed a reasonable number for personal use (typically up to two larger ones, or several smaller ones if the total capacity remains compliant with safety standards). All must be in your carry-on.
How to ensure my power bank doesn't accidentally turn on in my bag?
Ensure your power bank is completely powered off before storing it in your carry-on. Some power banks have a power button that needs to be pressed and held; others may have an auto-shutoff feature.
How to stay updated on Southwest Airlines' power bank policy?
It's always best to check the official Southwest Airlines website (specifically their "Restricted Items" or "Baggage" section) or contact their customer service before your flight for the most current information, as policies can be updated.
How to handle a power bank that is swelling or damaged before a flight?
Do NOT bring a swelling or damaged power bank on a flight. This indicates a significant safety hazard. Damaged lithium-ion batteries pose a severe fire risk and are prohibited from air travel. Dispose of them properly according to local regulations.
