Can I put phone charger in checked luggage?

The Checked Baggage Charger Conundrum: Why Your Power Bank Belongs in Your Carry-On

The question of whether you can pack your phone charger in checked luggage is a surprisingly common one, and the answer is a resounding no – at least, not if we’re talking about portable chargers (power banks). While a simple wall-wart charger poses little threat, portable power banks, those convenient devices that keep your phone topped up on the go, are strictly forbidden in checked baggage.

The reason isn’t about airline stinginess or a desire to inconvenience passengers. It boils down to safety, and specifically, the risk of fire. Portable chargers contain lithium-ion batteries, which, while generally safe, possess the potential to overheat and ignite under certain conditions. These conditions can be exacerbated by the pressures and potential impacts experienced during the handling and transportation of checked luggage.

Imagine a power bank jostled around in a cargo hold, subjected to temperature fluctuations and the possibility of being crushed or punctured. The consequences of a lithium-ion battery fire in this environment are far more serious than in the cabin. The cargo hold is less accessible to flight crew, making a rapid response to a fire significantly more challenging. This delay increases the risk of a small fire escalating into a major incident, potentially compromising the entire aircraft.

Conversely, a fire involving a portable charger in carry-on luggage can be dealt with much more quickly. Flight attendants are trained to handle such emergencies, and the immediate proximity of the fire allows for a prompt and effective response, minimizing the potential for harm.

Therefore, while you might be tempted to tuck your power bank away in your suitcase to save space in your carry-on, the significant safety risks outweigh the convenience. Always keep your portable chargers with you in your carry-on bag. This ensures both your safety and the safety of fellow passengers. Check your airline’s specific regulations, as there might be limitations on the capacity of the power bank you can carry onboard, but remember, checked baggage is definitively off-limits for these items. Pack smart, pack safe.