Can I Fly with a 20000mAh Power Bank on Alaska Airlines to Hawaii?
Updated 2026-08-02 · Power Bank Guide
Traveling from the continental U.S. to Hawaii on Alaska Airlines? You can bring a 20000mAh power bank, but you must stay within the TSA and FAA limits. A 20000mAh pack is roughly 74 Wh, which is safely under the 100 Wh ceiling for carry‑on batteries. Below we break down the math, the airline’s policies, and how to choose a flight‑safe charger.
Understanding the 100 Wh Limit
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) limits portable lithium‑ion batteries to 100 Wh for devices carried in the cabin. Watt‑hours are calculated by the formula:
Wh = (mAh ÷ 1,000) × Voltage
Most power banks use a 3.7 V internal cell. For a 20000 mAh unit:
- (20,000 ÷ 1,000) = 20 Ah
- 20 Ah × 3.7 V = 74 Wh
At 74 Wh you are comfortably below the 100 Wh threshold, meaning the battery can be carried in your hand luggage but not in checked baggage. If a power bank exceeds 100 Wh, you must get airline approval and may be limited to two spare batteries.
Alaska Airlines Policy for Hawaii Flights
Alaska Airlines follows the FAA rule with no additional restrictions for domestic or Hawaiian routes. The airline’s website states:
- All lithium‑ion batteries under 100 Wh are allowed in carry‑on only.
- Devices must be turned off or set to airplane mode during take‑off and landing.
- Spare batteries must be protected from short circuits (original packaging or tape over terminals).
Because a 20000 mAh power bank is under 100 Wh, you can place it in your personal item or larger carry‑on bag. No special declaration is required, but it’s good practice to have it easily accessible for inspection.
How Many Charges Can You Expect?
Real‑world efficiency for lithium‑ion packs is about 60‑70 % after accounting for voltage conversion and heat loss. Assuming a 70 % efficiency:
- iPhone 17 battery: ~3,300 mAh at 3.85 V ≈ 12.7 Wh. 74 Wh × 0.70 ÷ 12.7 Wh ≈ 4 full charges.
- Samsung Galaxy S24: ~5,000 mAh at 3.85 V ≈ 19.3 Wh. 74 Wh × 0.70 ÷ 19.3 Wh ≈ 2.7 charges.
- Google Pixel 8: ~4,800 mAh at 3.85 V ≈ 18.5 Wh. 74 Wh × 0.70 ÷ 18.5 Wh ≈ 2.8 charges.
These numbers vary with screen brightness, background apps, and whether you use fast‑charging (which can be slightly less efficient).
Choosing a Flight‑Safe Power Bank
If you need a reliable, TSA‑approved charger for your Alaska Airlines Hawaii trip, the INIU 20000mAh Portable Charger (Flight‑Safe) is a solid pick. It meets the 100 Wh limit, packs a 22.5 W USB‑C PD output for rapid charging, includes a USB‑C cable and a handy flashlight, and fits easily in a pocket or personal item.
Its 22.5 W output can charge most smartphones to 50 % in under 30 minutes, and it can also top up tablets or small laptops that accept up to 30 W PD. Because the unit is certified for air travel, you won’t have to worry about airline‑specific paperwork.
Airline‑by‑Airline Quick Reference
While this article focuses on Alaska Airlines, the following table summarizes the common policy for major U.S. carriers. All share the 100 Wh limit for carry‑on batteries.
| Airline | Domestic/Hawaii | 100 Wh Limit | Special Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines | Yes | Allowed in carry‑on | No extra paperwork for < 100 Wh |
| Delta | Yes | Allowed in carry‑on | Must be protected from short circuits |
| American | Yes | Allowed in carry‑on | Spare batteries must be in original packaging |
| United | Yes | Allowed in carry‑on | Same 100 Wh rule |
Always verify the latest policy on the airline’s website before you travel, as regulations can change.
FAQ
Can I put a 20000mAh power bank in my checked luggage?
No. All lithium‑ion power banks, regardless of capacity, must be carried in the cabin. Checked baggage poses a fire risk that the FAA does not allow.
What if my power bank is rated at 25,000 mAh?
Check the watt‑hour rating. A 25,000 mAh pack at 3.7 V equals 92.5 Wh, still under 100 Wh, so it’s permitted in carry‑on. Anything over 100 Wh requires airline approval and may be limited to two spare batteries.
Do I need to declare my power bank at security?
Typically not. TSA agents may ask to see it, but you don’t need a special declaration as long as it’s under 100 Wh and stored in your carry‑on.