How to stay connected amidst changing in-air battery pack requirements

Portable chargers and power banks have become a carry-on essential to keep devices charged up for work or entertainment while travelling. But with airlines changing on-board battery policies, travellers are being urged to be aware of new requirements and to rely on other measures to stay connected in the air.  

Virgin Australia has updated its rules for carrying power banks, spare batteries and small portable electronic devices. These changes take effect from 1 December 2025. Please review the updated guidelines carefully, as they may affect how you pack your baggage. From 15 December, Qantas and Jetstar will impose similar rules, banning the use of power banks or charging power banks while on board. 

This follows popular long-haul carrier Singapore Airlines and its low-cost carrier, Scoot, along with China Airlines, Thai Airways, Korean Airlines, Asiana Airlines, EVA Air, Korean Air, and Asiana having changed their requirements this year. 

Corporate Traveller, Flight Centre Travel Group's flagship SME division, is calling on corporate travellers who rely heavily on staying connected to be aware of the new rules and is providing guidance on how to remain productive amid the new requirements. 

Corporate Traveller Global Managing Director Tom Walley said a significant number of international carriers that operate in and out of Australia had begun introducing the new requirements this year, and he expected it was just a matter of time before others follow suit. 

“A lot of Asian carriers are introducing the new requirements, and it includes many that Australians know and frequent, so travellers must understand these new restrictions and the impact they will have on them,” Mr Walley said. 

“Safety is the priority, but there are workarounds and other strategies to make sure you’re keeping charged and connected, particularly on the longer haul trips.” 

Corporate Traveller’s tips for staying connected and charged up amidst the new portable charger requirements:  

1. Understand your airline's specific policies before you travel - these are available on each carrier's website and vary across airlines, and are continuing to change.
2. Board with a fully charged device – and if you are using your phone, laptop or tablet while you’re at the airport, find a charging port to maintain full battery while waiting to fly. Whether you’ve got lounge access or are sitting in an airport café, there are usually plenty of charging ports around.
3. Pack a charging cord with USB connection in your carry-on. Most planes, particularly on longer-haul flights, feature USB ports that allow direct charging while you fly.
4. Consider the most practical device for your journey – sometimes a laptop is not the most effective option for staying connected, continuing work, or keeping entertained from the sky. You can't charge a laptop via onboard USB ports. A tablet often provides the best solution for a larger screen with full functionality and convenient charging.
5. Make use of the in-flight infotainment systems when they are available. Rather than draining your battery watching content on your own device, use the built-in systems where possible.
6. Be mindful of where you're plugging in, though. Cybercriminals can compromise public USB ports, and airports are often hotspots for this.
7. Purchase certified power banks from reputable manufacturers to ensure safety for yourself and fellow passengers.
8. Never pack your portable charger in your checked luggage. According to global aviation requirements, they must always be carried in the cabin with you.  

“My biggest tip is to consider the best device for your journey – laptops are hard to charge on the go, and are a bulky, heavier option. I prefer a tablet in my carry-on that has similar functionality to a laptop, but it’s easier to charge on board and travel with. 

“We’ve seen at least several airlines begin introducing restrictions on using and charging portable charging devices in the aircraft, and I expect we will see others follow suit within time.”  

Power banks must be carried in cabin baggage on all flights, according to international aviation regulations, and not stored in checked luggage. However, this new airline requirement to safeguard passengers takes this to a new level.