Planning a trip to China? Don’t get caught off guard at security. The China power bank limit is a small issue, but something every traveller should know. Airport security has tightened rules on portable chargers. Failure to comply can lead to immediate confiscation at security checkpoints.
China Power Bank Limit - Latest Update
Source: Wikipedia
Before you zip through security, here’s the latest: as of 28 June 2025, power banks without a clear 3C (CCC) certification label, or those that are vague or recalled, are now strictly banned on China domestic flights.
Power banks lacking this certification, with unclear or missing 3C markings, or those from recalled batches, are strictly banned from being brought on board.
Even if your power bank meets capacity rules, it won’t be allowed aboard unless that 3C mark is crystal clear.
⚠️ Important Warning: Be very careful with unlabeled or poorly labelled power banks, which are common in cheap, old, or unbranded units. Many security checks at Chinese airports and high-speed rail stations will reject or confiscate them if key safety information is missing.
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3C stands for China Compulsory Certification (sometimes written as CCC). It’s a safety mark that China requires on certain products. It’s a bit like the CE mark in Europe. For power banks, the 3C label means the product has passed official safety checks for things like battery quality, fire resistance, and overall reliability.
If your power bank doesn’t have a visible 3C mark, airport security in China can stop you from bringing it on board, even if the capacity is within the allowed limit.
👉Note: Besides the 3C mark, make sure all other information on your power bank is clear and legible, like the capacity in mAh or Wh and the brand/model details. Security staff will check these during screening, and unclear labels could lead to your power bank being confiscated.
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While the new regulation applies to all flights departing from mainland China, it does not affect flights arriving in China. That is:
✅Arriving from abroad: If you’re travelling from Singapore (or any other country) to China, your power bank is generally allowed on entry regardless of its certification status. Security won’t check the 3C mark for inbound passengers.
✅Departing domestic flights within China: Once you’re in China, things change. For any domestic flight in China, your power bank must have a clear 3C certification mark to be permitted on board. Oversized or uncertified units will be confiscated.
China Flight Power Bank Rules by Capacity
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) sets the official rules for carrying power banks on flights. Here’s a quick breakdown based on capacity:
Under 100Wh (up to about 20,000mAh): Allowed in your carry-on with no problem.
100Wh–160Wh (around 20,000mAh to 27,000mAh): Allowed, but usually limited to one or two units. Some airlines may require approval.
Over 160Wh (above about 30,000mAh): Not allowed at all on China flights.
China Flight Power Bank Rules by Airline
While the CAAC sets the general rules for power banks on flights, individual airlines may have slightly different policies.
Airline
Capacity Allowed
3C Certification Requirement
Air China
≤100Wh (≈20,000mAh) freely; 100–160Wh may need approval; >160Wh prohibited
China Flight Power Bank Rules: What’s Allowed vs Not Allowed?
Feature
Allowed
Prohibited
Brands
Anker, Apple, Xiaomi, etc. (with 3C mark)
Unknown / unlabelled brands
Capacity
≤ 100Wh (most consumer power banks)
> 160Wh or industrial batteries
Label visibility
Clear Wh / mAh marking
Faded, missing, or unreadable label
QR code / safety verification
Power bank with valid
CCC / QR safety code
(for newer registered models in China)
No QR/CCC verification on newer regulated devices (may be flagged in security checks)
Carry-on rules
Must be carried in hand luggage
Not allowed in checked baggage
Usage onboard
Allowed when not charging or supervised
Charging during takeoff/landing may be restricted
Condition
Intact, non-damaged units
Swollen, leaking, or damaged batteries
Tips for Carrying Power Banks on China Flights
Carrying a power bank in China isn’t complicated, but a few simple tips can save you a lot of stress at the airport:
Carry-on only – Never pack your power bank in checked luggage. Security will not allow it.
Check the capacity – Keep it under 100Wh (around 20,000mAh) for easier travel. For 100–160Wh, get airline approval.
Keep original labels visible – Make sure the capacity in mAh or Wh and the 3C certification mark are clearly visible. Security may refuse or confiscate power banks without proper labelling.
Limit the number – Most airlines allow only 1–2 high-capacity units. Avoid bringing extra chargers.
Keep it handy – Security may ask you to test your power bank, so don’t bury it at the bottom of your bag.
Know your airline rules – Check the specific carrier’s website if you’re flying China Eastern, Air China, Hainan, or low-cost carriers.
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Mobile data & SIM/eSIM – Consider getting an eSIM or local SIM card to stay connected. Offline maps can be a lifesaver if your data is limited.
Payment apps – Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used. Make sure your accounts are ready before arrival.
Transport planning – Check metro apps, high-speed train schedules, and airport transfers in advance.
Avoid peak crowds – Popular attractions and trains fill up quickly during holidays, especially during Golden Week and Chinese New Year. Book tickets early or travel during off-peak times.
Is a 20,000mAh Power Bank Allowed on China Flights?
Yes! A 20,000mAh power bank is generally allowed on China flights, as it falls under the 100Wh limit set by the CAAC. You can carry it in your hand luggage, but make sure it has a visible 3C certification mark.
What if my power bank doesn’t have a 3C mark?
Security may confiscate it, even if the capacity is within limits. Always check for a visible 3C certification label.
Can I pack my power bank in checked luggage?
No. All power banks must be carried in your hand luggage. Checked baggage is not allowed.
How can I tell the Wh of my power bank if it only shows mAh?
You can calculate it: Wh = (mAh × Voltage) ÷ 1000. Most phone power banks are 3.7V, so a 20,000mAh unit is about 74Wh.
Can I bring a power bank on a high-speed train in China?
Yes, you can bring a power bank on a high-speed train in China. And high-speed train will not allow you to take power bank with 3C mark.
Are Anker or Apple power banks allowed?
Anker and Apple power banks are both allowed as long as they are for personal use and typically under 100Wh (most standard power banks are fine). Keep it in your carry-on, not checked luggage.
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