I. Introduction

As our dependence on mobile phones continues to increase, portable chargers have become a life-saver for many of us, especially during long flights. But can you bring a portable charger on a plane? This question and many others will be addressed in this article. We will cover the top portable chargers for frequent travelers that are allowed on planes, airline policies regarding portable chargers, and tips for traveling with a portable charger.

II. A Guide on Airline Policies Regarding Portable Chargers

The policies of different airlines vary widely regarding portable chargers, which can be confusing for travelers. However, knowing the general policies of airlines toward portable chargers can help you avoid unnecessary stress on your travels.

Most airlines allow portable chargers, but some have restrictions on the battery’s capacity and the type of charger allowed. For instance, the TSA allows power banks of less than 100 watt-hours (usually around 20,000mAh) in hand luggage, while power banks greater than 100 watt-hours may be allowed as checked luggage. Some airlines may also require that the portable charger has labelled input and output voltage specifications printed on it.

It’s also essential to note that some airlines may prohibit portable chargers that have lithium-ion batteries. It’s wise to check with your airline before traveling to know your airline’s specific policies and restrictions.

III. Top 5 Portable Chargers for Frequent Travelers that Are Allowed on Planes

Choosing the right portable charger is vital for a frequent traveller. It should be lightweight, portable, efficient, quick charging, and long-lasting. Here are the top five portable chargers allowed on planes:

1. Anker PowerCore 10000mAh – compact and affordable, this charger also has quick charging capabilities and is compatible with most devices.
2. Aukey Power Bank 10000mAh – this charger is efficient, has dual charging ports and a built-in LED flashlight.
3. RAVPower 26800mAh – a high-capacity charger for extended trips, supports Quick Charge 3.0, and has three charging ports.
4. Mophie Powerstation Plus XL – a high-end portable charger that doubles as a charging cable for Apple users, with 8,000mAh battery capacity and quick charging capabilities.
5. Zendure A2 6700mAh – a compact, durable portable charger that has undergone multiple tests, and includes an auto-shutoff feature that prevents overcharging.

IV. Tips for Traveling with a Portable Charger

Packing a portable charger requires some thought and attention, especially when passing through airport security. Here are some tips for hassle-free travel:

1. Ensure that the portable charger is in your carry-on luggage.
2. Label the charger with your name and phone number, just in case it gets misplaced.
3. Avoid overloading your luggage with too many chargers, which may raise suspicions of airport security officials.
4. Keep the charger in a protective case to prevent damage.
5. Stow the charger in your front pocket, bag, or purse for ease of access on the plane.

V. Comparison of Various Types of Portable Chargers that Pass TSA Guidelines

Knowing the various types of portable chargers that meet TSA guidelines can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right charger. Here are some of the types you may encounter:

1. Power Banks – these are portable batteries that you can attach to your phone to recharge it on the go.
2. Solar Chargers – these use solar panels to charge the battery, but they may take a considerable amount of time to charge.
3. Hand Crank Chargers – these are ideal for emergency situations, but they may be strenuous to use.
4. Battery Cases – these are phone cases that have built-in batteries to charge your phone.
5. Plug-In Chargers – these are wall adapters that plug into an outlet and allow you to charge your phone via a USB connection.

VI. Reasons for Airlines Prohibiting Specific Types of Portable Chargers on Flights

Airlines prohibit some types of portable chargers due to safety concerns. Some types of chargers may pose a higher risk of combustion or short-circuiting, which could be dangerous on a flight. Airlines usually restrict chargers that have large battery capacities or unspecified output voltages.

Some airlines also prohibit chargers that have external wires or chargers without any protective casing. It’s best practice to check if your charger is allowed by your airline before traveling.

VII. Review of Airlines that Offer Charging Options on Flights and the Ones that Don’t

Several airlines offer in-flight charging options for passengers while some do not. Airlines such as Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, and Air Canada have USB ports on their flights, enabling travelers to charge their phones or tablets during the flight.

However, some airlines such as Spirit Airlines and Southwest Airlines don’t offer this service, so it’s best to come prepared with a fully charged portable charger before boarding such flights.

VIII. An Ultimate Guide to Avoiding Dead Phone Batteries While Traveling

When planning a trip, it’s essential to ensure that your phone is always charged to avoid disappointments. Here are some tips to help you maximize your phone’s battery life:

1. Turn off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GPS – these are known battery drainers.
2. Reduce screen brightness – the brighter the display, the shorter the battery life.
3. Use airplane mode when not in use – this will reduce the battery consumption when not in use.
4. Carry a spare battery – keeping an extra battery handy can come in handy when it’s time to recharge.
5. Use low power mode – some smartphones have this feature that lowers the display brightness and reduces overall power consumption.

IX. Conclusion

In conclusion, traveling with a portable charger is not only possible but also convenient. Understanding the policies surrounding portable chargers can help travelers avoid unnecessary delays at airports and onboard. Investing in the right portable charger can also ensure that your devices are always powered when you need them. We hope this guide has equipped you with the knowledge to make informed decisions on traveling with a portable charger.

Don’t hesitate to share your travel experiences and tips on traveling with a portable charger in the comments.