More problems for Americans: In addition to the REAL ID requirement for flyers, TSA bans these common items from checked luggage

While Americans rush to comply with the REAL ID deadline on Wednesday to board commercial airlines in the United States, travellers need to be more cautious while packing their bags as well.

TSA's New Ban on Power Banks and Chargers

As per TSA's new prohibition which started on March 1, 2025, a few common travel items are no longer allowed in checked-in luggage, reported The Palm Beach Post. Travellers will no longer be able to carry portable chargers and power banks in their checked bags but however, can carry it in their handbags, as per the report.

Why the New Ban?

The TSA's latest ban comes after a fire burst out in a Russian aeroplane in South Korea in January and forced the evacuation of all 179 passengers and six crew due to an exploding power bank, according to The Palm Beach Post.

Rising Lithium-Ion Battery Risks

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the number of lithium-ion battery fires rose by over 42% in the past five years, as per the report. The FAA data also shows that there has been an average of at least one lithium battery incident on a passenger plane in the United States every week since 2021, according to The Palm Beach Post.

What’s Now Off-Limits in Your Checked Luggage?

Previously, the FAA had banned uninstalled lithium-ion metal batteries from checked-in luggage in 2020. But now, the new prohibition also includes power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, as per the report. Here is the list:

• Power banks
• Cellphone battery charging cases
• Rechargeable and non-rechargeable lithium batteries
• Cellphone batteries
• Laptop batteries
• External batteries
• Portable rechargers

Travellers can also check which items are allowed or banned on board, by checking the TSA's online search function.

FAQs

Can I still bring a power bank on my flight?
Yes, you can still bring power banks, but they must be in your carry-on bag, not in checked luggage, as per The Palm Beach Post.

How can I check what’s allowed or not?
The TSA has an online search tool that lets you look up specific items to see if they are permitted in checked luggage or carry-on bags, as per The Palm Beach Post.