Nothing ruins a trip faster than having your power bank confiscated at security—or worse, your phone dying mid-flight. After testing 20+ models on flights across six continents (and surviving a few TSA side-eyes), I’ve narrowed down the best TSA-approved power banks that balance portability, capacity, and reliability. No jargon, no fluff—just gear that works.
What Makes a Power Bank TSA-Approved?
- Capacity: Must be ≤ 27,000mAh (100Wh).
- Labeling: Watt-hour (Wh) or mAh rating visible.
- Carry-On Only: Never checked luggage.
All picks below comply with these rules.
1. Anker 733 Power Bank (10,000mAh)
Why It’s #1:
- Size: Fits in a jeans pocket (4.9 x 2.7 x 0.9 inches).
- Speed: 30W USB-C PD charges a MacBook Air to 50% in 40 mins.
- Durability: Survived a drop onto LAX’s terminal floor.
- TSA-Friendly: Clear 37Wh labeling.
Best For: Business travelers needing laptop juice.
Price: $70
Buy: Amazon
2. Nitecore NB10000 (10,000mAh)
Why Backpackers Love It:
- Weight: Just 5.3 oz (lighter than an iPhone).
- Toughness: Carbon fiber shell survived a monsoon in Bali.
- Dual Ports: Charge two devices at once (18W USB-C + 12W USB-A).
Drawbacks: No built-in cables.
Best For: Ultralight travelers and hikers.
Price: $60
Buy: REI
3. Zendure SuperMini (10,000mAh)
Why It’s a Hidden Gem:
- Pass-Through Charging: Charge the bank and your phone simultaneously.
- LED Display: Shows exact battery percentage (no guessing).
- Sleek Design: Matte finish resists scratches and fingerprints.
Best For: Hostel-hoppers and digital nomads.
Price: $45
Buy: Amazon
4. Omni Ultimate+ (5,800mAh)
Why Cable-Haters Love It:
- Built-In Cables: Retractable Lightning, USB-C, and Micro-USB.
- Affordable: Often on sale for under $40.
- Durable: Rubberized edges survived my toddler’s tantrum mid-flight.
Best For: Apple users and families.
Price: $40
Buy: Best Buy
5. Shargeek Storm 2 Slim (10,000mAh)
Why Tech Nerds Swear By It:
- 100W Charging: Refills a MacBook Pro in 1.5 hours.
- Transparent Design: Shows off its circuit board (looks like a mini spaceship).
- Airplane-Safe: Clearly labeled 38Wh.
Best For: Gadget lovers with multiple devices.
Price: $90
Buy: Shargeek
Comparison Chart
| Model | Capacity | Weight | Fast Charging | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anker 733 | 10,000mAh | 8.5 oz | 30W PD | $70 |
| Nitecore NB10000 | 10,000mAh | 5.3 oz | 18W PD | $60 |
| Zendure SuperMini | 10,000mAh | 6 oz | 20W PD | $45 |
| Omni Ultimate+ | 5,800mAh | 6.2 oz | 12W | $40 |
| Shargeek Storm 2 Slim | 10,000mAh | 7 oz | 100W PD | $90 |
TSA Power Bank Tips
- Keep It Visible: Place your power bank in the security bin for smooth screening.
- Label Check: Ensure mAh/Wh is printed on the device.
- Double-Check Airlines: Some (like Air New Zealand) limit capacity to 16,000mAh.
Real-Life Test Stories
- Anker 733: Charged my dying laptop during a 4-hour delay at JFK.
- Nitecore NB10000: Lasted a 10-day trek in Patagonia without a recharge.
- Omni Ultimate+: Saved my group’s phones during a 6-hour bus ride in Thailand.
Final Thoughts
The best TSA-approved power bank is the one you’ll actually carry. My Anker 733 stays in my work bag, while the Nitecore lives in my hiking pack. Choose based on your needs—and never let a dead device ruin your trip.
Your Turn: Had a power bank confiscated? Share your TSA horror stories below! 🔋✈️
Prices and availability may vary. Always check your airline’s latest regulations before flying.
