Why You Need a Portable Power Bank for Air Travel
A reliable and portable power bank is a no-brainer addition to your carry-on bag. Few things are more anxiety-inducing than being at 10% battery and staring down an endless security line — a scenario that’s been unfortunately common at airports this year. Between this year’s partial government shutdown and the chaos of delays attributed to summer travel, you can never be too prepared for a holdup at the airport. From bite-sized chargers to pop into your pocket to aesthetic options that bring joy to a dull, drawn-out morning waiting to board, these top-rated options will have you charged up from the endless security line to your destination.
1. Rorry: Compact Charger with Keychain Hook
Think of this portable charger as the year-round equivalent of a perfect stocking stuffer: adorable to gift and super convenient to own in a bind. It’s got a nifty keychain design ideal for quick access, magnetic charging compatibility with the Apple Watch and iPhone (both of which take about an hour and two hours to complete respectively), and comes in the most gift-worthy colors and patterns to spruce up your airport look. Promising review: “This charger is literally perfect for on-the-go. It’s super compact (fits right on my keychain), but still gives enough power to boost my phone or Apple Watch when I’m out and about. I love that it has built-in cables — no digging through my bag or forgetting cords anymore. The pink color is also really cute and matches my vibe. Definitely a must-have if you’re always outside, traveling, or just need a quick charge.” — Dendra. $26 at Amazon.
2. Citicr: Aesthetic Charger with Multiple Modes
With this brand-androgynous portable charger, you’ve got options, from a wall plug that offers full power in five hours to three built-in USB cables for quicker four-hour charges. A digital display lets you know exactly how much juice you have for ultimate convenience. Plus, it comes in nine adorable colors that make it cute enough to gift to your favorite jet-setter. Promising review: “Reliable, convenient as heck and compact for travel or outdoor usage. This is the perfect power bank. Both my wife and my phones require a USB-C and now we don't need to worry about packing (and eventually) losing our house chargers. It holds a charge without depleting (as far as we can tell) over time like a few others, no issues with overheating, and it fast charges. Zero complaints.” — SimmisCatattx. $25 at Amazon.
3. Trkoy: Wireless MagSafe Charger You'll Barely Notice
Instead of making uncomfortable eye contact with fellow passengers to avoid using up your phone battery, keep it 100% with this cord-free MagSafe portable charger. It uses a durable magnetic force to clip directly onto your phone so you never miss a beat, whether you’re on a call or running to your gate. Thanks to its ultra-slim build of 12 millimeters thick, it’s the perfect carry-on companion that won’t take up space or weight as you travel. Promising review: “This little charger has officially become part of our daily routine. Road trips? Comes with us. Pool day? Yep, it’s in the bag. Quick errands? Already attached like it pays rent. The magnetic connection is super satisfying — just snap it on and boom, charging. No cords, no hassle, no “hold it at a weird angle and hope for the best” nonsense. It’s slim enough that it doesn’t make my phone feel like a brick, which is a huge win. Battery life is solid too. It gives my phone that extra boost when it’s hanging on for dear life at 10%, which honestly feels like a lifesaver more often than I’d like to admit. We’ve used it everywhere and it hasn’t let us down yet. Reliable, convenient, and honestly kind of a must-have if you’re always on the go. Highly recommend — because a dead phone in public is basically a modern-day crisis.” — Zach. $20 at Amazon.
4. Anker: Sustainable Bite-Sized Charger
Looking for something sleek and compact to help you stay connected amid hours-long delays? Don’t miss this portable charger with plenty of functionality. Not only does it charge itself as well as your phone at the same time, but it charges an iPhone Pro Max to 50% battery in under half an hour — perfect for getting in some extra juice before you board. Bonus: made with sustainable features, it’s ClimatePartner-certified to be low on carbon emissions for a gadget you can feel good about. Promising review: “I’ve been using this Anker power bank for about 2 years now, and it’s been very reliable. It’s taken a decent amount of abuse drops, travel, even camping trips, and it’s still going strong with no issues. The built-in USB-C cable makes it super convenient since I don’t always have to carry an extra cable with me. Battery performance has also been good. Even if I leave it unused for a while, it still holds its charge pretty well and doesn’t drain quickly. I’ve actually bought a few more for friends when they were on sale, and they’ve all had good experiences too.” — Jack. $30 at Amazon.
5. Helle: Six-Output Charger for Ultimate Multitasking
Never fret in long lines again with this reliable power bank boasting six outputs to fire up all your most-used devices at once. Its streamlined clutter-free design will bode particularly well in the midst of airport chaos and its LED screen gives you real-time battery insights. Along with iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy and Google compatibility, it offers charging via USB-A and C, iOS and micro cables. Promising review: “Incredible power bank that is a must to have with you. Portable wherever you go weighing in at 7.09 ounces! Slim and has 6 output ports and 3 input ports allow the best of the best charging and delivers 22.5W of quick charging capability! This charger meets safety certifications and is safe for air travel! Carry it in your pocket, purse, or any bag! Built to be safe from overheating and any worry of over-charging. Fantastic LED display to see and check the battery level easily! A quick power boost when you need it without worry of battery wear! Don't leave home without it!” — Jennifer Marlatt. $22+ at Amazon.
6. Heyday: Colorful Multi-Hub Power Bank
Traveling with friends and family, or relying on numerous devices to get through those long TSA lines? This aesthetic multi-hub power bank has your back. Use each of its four USB-C compatible power banks on a unique device to get them all charged up in one go and rely on its charge indicator light to check its status. $60 at Target.
7. Belkin: Reliable Option with Built-In Cables
This sleek charger from Belkin is equipped with both Lightning and USB-C cables that tuck into hidden side grooves to minimize bulk and cord damage. The brand promises it's also “carry-on safe” and compliant with the TSA’s regulations around portable batteries. Promising Amazon review: “I love this thing. The cables are already attached so you never need to worry about packing one. It can charge my iPhone from empty 2 to 3 times. Overall it’s a great charger and it’s not too big — which is a plus.” — Brian P. $50+ at Amazon.
8. Ugreen: Powerful Charger Built for Laptops
Boasting what the brand calls “massive” power, this 145-watt bank is designed to meaningfully charge a laptop — and of course, enough juice to charge an iPhone 15 more than five times. It has USB-C and USB-A outlets, and a clear LED display can help you stay on top of power levels. $100 at Ugreen.
