A power bank that flew into China on an international flight can still be refused on a later domestic flight. Since June 28, 2025, China has prohibited power banks without a clear CCC mark, with an unclear CCC mark, or from recalled models and batches on domestic flights.
The quick packing test
- Find the CCC or 3C mark on the power bank itself.
- Find the rated energy in Wh, or enough printed voltage and capacity information to calculate it.
- Check the brand, model, and batch against current recall notices.
- Put the power bank in your carry-on bag, never checked baggage.
- Protect it from short circuit and accidental activation.
- Check the operating airline’s current rule before departure.
请问，这个充电宝可以带上国内航班吗？
Pronunciation: Qingwen, zhege chongdianbao keyi dai shang guonei hangban ma?
Can I take this power bank on a domestic flight?
What the capacity numbers mean
- Up to 100Wh: normally permitted in carry-on without airline approval if all other requirements are met.
- Over 100Wh and up to 160Wh: airline approval is required, and CAAC limits each passenger to no more than two.
- Over 160Wh: not permitted as an ordinary passenger power bank.
A familiar 10,000mAh or 20,000mAh number is not the whole rule. Security needs the rated energy or enough clear information to determine it. Do not calculate from a voltage that applies only to USB output if the manufacturer provides a different battery rating.
The new CCC check is separate from the Wh check
Being under 100Wh does not solve a missing CCC mark on a domestic flight in China. Likewise, having a CCC mark does not make an oversized, damaged, or recalled device acceptable. Think of these as separate gates:
- Is the product clearly marked and not recalled?
- Is its rated energy within the permitted range?
- Is it packed and protected correctly?
- Has the airline approved it when approval is required?
Do not put it in checked baggage
CAAC rules require power banks to remain in carry-on baggage or with the passenger. If a bag is taken from you at the gate for hold loading, remove the power bank first. The same habit is useful for spare lithium batteries.
Do not use it during the flight
CAAC’s published rule says passengers must not use a power bank to charge devices during flight, and a unit with a switch should remain off. Follow the crew’s instruction even if another airline previously allowed something different.
If security rejects it
Do not argue only that it was allowed on your inbound flight. Ask which requirement failed: CCC mark, recall status, capacity, damage, or airline approval. Then ask what lawful options are available at that airport.
请问，哪里可以寄存或处理这个充电宝？
Pronunciation: Qingwen, nali keyi jicun huo chuli zhege chongdianbao?
Where can I store or dispose of this power bank?
- Some airports may have disposal or temporary-storage arrangements.
- You may be able to hand it to a non-traveling companion before security.
- Returning to a landside courier does not guarantee that lithium batteries can be mailed; ask the carrier.
- Do not hide the device in another bag or remove its label.
Allow extra time. A decision made at the security belt is much harder to solve when boarding is closing.
What I would buy for a China trip
For a new purchase intended for Chinese domestic flights, I would choose a modest-capacity unit from a recognizable seller, with a permanent and readable CCC mark, clear Wh rating, model number, manufacturer details, and a receipt. I would photograph both sides of the casing while the print is still clear.
FAQ
Does this rule apply to international flights leaving China?
The June 2025 CCC restriction specifically addresses domestic flights. International routes, airlines, and transfer security may apply different or additional rules. Check the operating airline and departure airport.
Is the CE or FCC mark enough?
No. Those marks do not replace the CCC requirement described by CAAC for Chinese domestic flights.
What if the CCC mark is on the box but not the power bank?
Do not rely on the packaging alone. Security checks the device being carried, and CAAC specifically addresses unclear or missing markings.
Can I carry a laptop or camera battery?
This page focuses on power banks. Installed and spare batteries have related but not identical rules; check CAAC and the airline for the exact battery and device.
Rules to check before you fly
- CAAC: CCC and recall restrictions for power banks on domestic flights
- CAAC: carry-on, Wh limits, approval, and in-flight use rules
Before departure: also check what can and cannot be brought into China. Customs and aviation security are separate checks.