Southwest Airlines Power Bank Rules 2026
Page updated · Sources and review method
Up to 100 Wh in carry-on only. Power banks above 100 Wh are not accepted.
- Power banks per passenger
- 1
- Checked baggage
- Not allowed
- Onboard use & charging
- Keep the power bank visible while in use. Do not recharge it using seat power.
- Special conditions
- The one-power-bank limit took effect on April 20, 2026. Do not store it in an overhead bin.
Last checked 2026-11-04
Capacity is only one part of acceptance. Damaged or recalled batteries, unreadable labels and route restrictions can change the answer.
Power bank flight checker
Enter the capacity and voltage from your label to see your result.
Keep the power bank visible while in use. Do not recharge it using seat power.
The one-power-bank limit took effect on April 20, 2026. Do not store it in an overhead bin.
Common power bank sizes on Southwest Airlines
Examples for one device at 3.7 V. Use your actual label; onboard use, certification and condition are separate checks.
| Battery capacity | Energy at 3.7 V | Capacity guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 5,000 mAh | 18.5 Wh | Carry-on only |
| 10,000 mAh | 37 Wh | Carry-on only |
| 20,000 mAh | 74 Wh | Carry-on only |
| 26,800 mAh | 99.16 Wh | Carry-on only |
| 30,000 mAh | 111 Wh | Not allowed |
| 50,000 mAh | 185 Wh | Not allowed |
Read the official policy linked above before departure. This comparison is not airline approval.
What changed: Southwest’s April 2026 one-bank limit
Power bank flight FAQs
Quick answers before you pack.
How many power banks can I take on Southwest Airlines?
1 per passenger, subject to capacity and route rules.
Can I use my power bank on Southwest Airlines?
Keep the power bank visible while in use. Do not recharge it using seat power.
Can I put it in a checked bag?
No. Keep power banks with you in the cabin, including when your carry-on is checked at the gate.
Can I bring a 10,000 mAh power bank on Southwest Airlines?
At 3.7 V it is 37 Wh. Within Southwest Airlines’s capacity limit. Check the quantity, label and route conditions below. Check the actual label and the onboard restrictions above.
Can I bring a 20,000 mAh power bank on Southwest Airlines?
At 3.7 V it is 74 Wh. Within Southwest Airlines’s capacity limit. Check the quantity, label and route conditions below. Check the actual label and the onboard restrictions above.
Can I bring a 30,000 mAh power bank on Southwest Airlines?
At 3.7 V it is 111 Wh. This exceeds Southwest Airlines’s 100 Wh power-bank limit. Check the actual label and the onboard restrictions above.