Yes, power adapters like phone or laptop chargers can be checked in. They just surpass the energy from the wall to your device; it doesn’t contain any energy. That’s why they are allowed to carry in both checked and carry-on bags. On the other hand, power banks and spare lithium batteries must always stay in carry-on bags. Lithium batteries can generate energy, but they can overheat and pose a fire risk.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and FAA rules must be followed while traveling with chargers, power banks, or batteries. So, for the next time you travel, pack your charger with care and consciousness. Cover the prongs, coil the cable, and cushion it in the bag. Much better if you carry two chargers in your carry-on and checked bags.
At Pacoli Power, we’ve got you covered with reliable, travel-friendly chargers and adapters to keep your devices powered wherever your journey takes you. Enjoy your travels without worrying about being disconnected!
How Power Adapters Are Different From Power Banks & Converters
When you’re packing for a trip, it helps to know exactly what’s in your bag. Because not all “chargers” are treated the same at the airport.
A power adapter, the block that comes with your laptop or phone, is simple. It doesn’t hold any energy. It just takes electricity from the wall and makes it safe for your device. Since there’s no battery inside, TSA has no problem with you putting it in either your checked luggage or your carry-on.
A power bank, though, is basically a battery you carry around. That’s why it’s different. Because it stores power, and batteries can overheat, power banks are not allowed in checked bags. They always need to travel with you in your cabin bag.
Then there are voltage converters or transformers, which travelers often bring when going overseas to match different electrical systems. Like adapters, they don’t store power, so you’re free to pack them in checked or carry-on bags though their size usually makes them better off in your suitcase.
Official TSA Rules for Checked Luggage
Getting through airport security is a lot less stressful when you know what the rules are. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) makes these rules to keep passengers safe, especially when it comes to what’s inside the cargo hold of the plane.
Here’s the key thing to remember: TSA officers have the final say at the checkpoint, but their decisions are based on clear, published policies.
The Golden Rule: No Spare Lithium Batteries in Checked Bags
The most important rule for travelers with electronics is this:
“Spare (uninstalled) lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only.” — TSA
This isn’t just advice, it’s federal law. Why? Lithium batteries can overheat and pose a fire risk. If that happens in the cabin, flight attendants can respond quickly. But if it happens in the cargo hold, the fire is much harder to detect and control.
What About Power Adapters and Converters?
Good news: power adapters and voltage converters don’t contain batteries. They’re just plugs and electronics that move electricity from the wall to your device. That means they are safe to pack in either your checked bag or your carry-on.
FAA Safety Guidelines for Power Adapters
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) makes the safety rules that airlines follow in the United States. Most of their rules about electronics are focused on lithium batteries, because those can overheat and, in rare cases, catch fire.
Here’s what the FAA wants you to know:
- Spare lithium batteries and power banks: These can never go in checked bags. They always need to stay with you in your carry-on.
- Devices with built-in batteries (like your laptop or tablet): These are allowed in both checked and carry-on, but it’s safer to keep them in the cabin.
- Power adapters and converters: Since they don’t store energy and don’t have batteries, they are safe. You can pack them in either your carry-on or your checked bag.
The FAA has good reason for these rules. In 2024, airlines reported 89 cases of lithium battery incidents, and by mid-2025, there had already been over 30 more. That’s about one incident a week, which is why the rules are taken so seriously.
The bottom line: FAA guidelines make it clear. Your power adapter is fine in a checked bag, but spare batteries and power banks must always ride in the cabin with you.
How to Pack a Power Adapter Safely in Your Luggage
Power adapters are allowed in both checked bags and carry-ons, but if you just throw them in your suitcase, you risk bent prongs, broken cables, or worse, arriving at your destination with no way to charge your devices. Here’s how to keep them safe and travel-ready:
Cover the prongs.
Those little metal ends on your charger are fragile. They can bend if your suitcase gets tossed around, or scratch up your clothes. Slip on a plastic cover if you have one, or simply wrap the adapter in a small cloth or sock for protection.
Be kind to your cables.
Tightly wrapping cords around the adapter may feel tidy, but it actually damages the wires. Instead, coil the cable loosely and secure it with a small strap, band, or tie. This way, your charger will last longer.
Use a pouch or organizer.
Don’t let your adapter rattle around with your shoes and toiletries. Put it in a padded pouch, zip bag, or tech organizer. It keeps things neat and adds a layer of protection against bumps.
Keep one with you.
If you’re bringing more than one adapter, keep at least one in your carry-on bag. That way, if your checked luggage is delayed or lost, you’ll still have a way to charge your phone or laptop right away.
Cushion it in your suitcase.
When packing an adapter in checked luggage, tuck it between soft items like T-shirts or sweaters instead of leaving it near heavy objects. This helps prevent cracks or damage during rough handling.
Think about quick access.
Sometimes you’ll need your charger mid-journey, like during a layover or on the plane. Keep your main adapter in an easy-to-reach pocket of your backpack or handbag so you don’t have to dig through everything to find it.
Airline Policies on Power Adapters
When it comes to flying, most U.S. airlines follow the same TSA and FAA rules for electronics. Still, it’s helpful to know what the major carriers say about packing a power adapter in checked luggage or bringing one in your carry-on.
- American Airlines
American allows laptop chargers, phone chargers, and power adapters in both checked bags and carry-on bags. But like all airlines, they do not permit power banks or spare lithium batteries in checked luggage. Those must stay with you in the cabin.
- Delta Air Lines
Delta’s policy is clear: power adapters and charging cables are fine in either checked or carry-on luggage, but portable chargers and spare lithium batteries must be packed in your carry-on only. Delta also reminds passengers that if a carry-on is gate-checked, you should remove any batteries or power banks first.
- United Airlines
United follows the same guidance: wall chargers, power adapters, and travel converters can go in both checked and cabin bags. However, external battery packs, including those used with CPAP machines or medical devices, must always remain in your carry-on.
- Southwest Airlines
With Southwest, the rule is the same. Power adapters, phone chargers, and cables are allowed in any bag, but power banks and spare laptop batteries are never allowed in checked baggage.
One area where travelers get caught off guard is at the gate. If your carry-on is too large or the flight is full, the airline may ask you to check it. In that case, you must remove all power banks and spare batteries before handing over the bag. Power adapters are fine to leave inside, but batteries must stay with you.
International Travel With Power Adapters
When you’re traveling internationally, using your power adapter correctly is key to keeping your devices charged and ready to go. Different countries have different outlet types and voltage, so you need to know what to bring and how to use it. Here’s a simple guide to help you out:
Different Countries, Different Plug Types
In the U.S., we use 110V for most electronics, but many countries around the world use 220V or 240V. This means the plugs and the power supply might be different, and that’s where a power adapter or voltage converter comes in.
- Power Adapters: These change the shape of your plug to fit into the outlets in other countries, but they don’t change the voltage.
- Voltage Converters: These are needed when your device can’t handle the higher voltage in other countries. For example, many hair dryers or laptops might need a converter to avoid damaging them.
What You’ll Need for Different Regions
Depending on where you’re traveling, you might need a universal travel adapter or a voltage converter (or both!). Here’s a breakdown:
- Europe, Asia, and Africa: Most countries here use 220V-240V power and different plug types. A universal adapter will let you plug your devices into any of the outlets you’ll find.
- Australia/New Zealand: These places use plug type I (with 230V power), so make sure you bring the right adapter.
- UK: The UK uses Type G plugs and 230V power, so you’ll need a UK-specific adapter.
FAQs
Are power adapters allowed in carry-on luggage?
Answer: Yes, power adapters are completely safe to carry in your carry-on luggage. They are small, low-risk devices and don't have any restrictions for carry-on bags. You can pack them in your bag or personal item without issue.
What happens if I accidentally pack a power bank in checked luggage?
Answer:If you accidentally pack a power bank in your checked luggage, airport security will likely remove it during the screening process. Since lithium batteries are not allowed in checked baggage, your bag could be delayed while the item is disposed of, and you won’t be reimbursed for it.
How do I know if my charger is dual voltage?
Answer:To check if your charger or device is dual voltage, look at the information printed on the charger itself. It should list a voltage range, such as 110-240V. If it does, it can safely be used in most countries without needing a voltage converter. If it only shows 110V, you’ll need a converter to use it in countries with higher voltage.
In Wrapping
Don’t stress packing your electronics for your next trip. By knowing the TSA guidelines and airline policies for power adapters and power banks, you can pack with ease and avoid any last-minute surprises. Just keep in mind: power adapters are good to go in checked luggage, but power banks and spare batteries need to stay in your carry-on.
At Pacoli Power, we’re all about making your travel experience smoother. With our reliable chargers and adapters, you’ll always stay powered up, no matter where your journey takes you. Pack smart, travel easy, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with our products.
