Type the mAh and volts printed on your power bank for its watt-hours and the FAA rule that goes with them.
On the label
V
Wh
Look for both on the power bank’s label.
Watt-hours and the FAA rule
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How the math works
The FAA works out watt-hours as volts times amp-hours. Divide the mAh by 1,000 to get amp-hours, then multiply by the volts.
The FAA’s own example is a 12 volt battery rated 8 Ah, which works out to 96 Wh.
Which voltage to use
Use the voltage printed on the label beside the mAh rating. Anker’s 735 Power Bank is labelled 25,600mAh/94.72Wh, which works out to 3.7 volts.
RatingsmAh and V, often Wh
The mAh, the volts and, on many power banks, the Wh sit together in the small print on the back or bottom.
If the label gives a Wh rating as well, go by that figure. The FAA says a lithium ion battery’s Wh should be marked on it.
Laptop and camera batteries
The same Wh limits apply to spare laptop and camera batteries, so the calculator works for them too. For a battery inside a device, see laptops and electronics on a plane.
Common questions
How many Wh is 10,000 mAh?
A 10,000 mAh power bank is 37 Wh if its label gives 3.7 volts (10 Ah x 3.7 V), or 38.5 Wh at 3.85 volts. Work it out with the voltage on your own power bank's label.
Is a 100 Wh power bank allowed?
Yes, the FAA allows lithium ion batteries up to 100 Wh without the airline's approval, in your carry-on only.
The math and the limits are the FAA’s (PackSafe and 49 CFR 175.10), with Anker’s own label as the worked example. Checked against published data from FAA, US DOT, TSA and Anker.
See all 5 sources
FAA, Airline Passengers and Batteries: guidance, FAQs and chart
FAA, Printable PackSafe Chart (PDF, updated November 14, 2025)
US DOT, 49 CFR 175.10, Exceptions for passengers, crewmembers, and air operators (eCFR)
TSA, What Can I Bring?: Power Banks
Anker support, Which Anker power banks are allowed on a flight?
General guidance from airline, TSA and FAA rules, checked on the date shown. Rules change, and the airline and security officers decide on the day: check your airline before you fly.
