Can You Charge Your Phone on a Plane? Tips for Staying Connected in the Sky

Smartphones are an indispensable part of our existence in today's hyper-connected world. This is equally applicable the moment we step into an airplane. Be it work emails, streaming movies, or playing games, being connected with a charged phone is important. But can you charge your phone on a plane?
The answer is yes, but there are a few things you should know to ensure a seamless charging experience while flying.

Understanding Airplane Charging Policies

But before we jump in to understand the different ways your phone can be charged up on an airplane, you should be apprised of the charging policies in the other airlines. While some airlines have in-seat power outlets and USB ports, some don't. It is always better to check with your airline before a flight to know the charging options available.
Also, note that most airlines have a provision for charging your phone during a flight, though you may not be allowed to use the phone at all times. For example, you may be asked to keep your phone in airplane mode while taking off and landing and store it away.

What Are 7 Ways to Keep Your Phone Charged While You Fly?

Use In-Seat Power Outlets

If you are lucky, you will find a power outlet on your airplane seat. You may plug your phone with your charger into the outlet. Just don't forget to bring the appropriate adapter if your phone requires one.

Take Advantage of USB Ports

Most modern aircraft have USB ports built right into the seat or entertainment system. You could charge your phone; however, it might charge it more slowly than a conventional wall power outlet. Be sure to pack a USB cable that's compatible with your phone.

Bring a Portable Charger

An excellent portable charger, more technically known as a power bank, will help you along the long flights. You just charge the power bank before the trip, and during the trip, use it to recharge your phone as and when needed. Get a high-capacity power bank to ensure you don't run out of power.

Charge Your Phone Before Boarding

One of the simplest methods to ensure that the phone has enough life to take you through a flight is to charge it to its capacity before boarding. This way, even if you don't get the charging options on the plane, you at least start with a full battery.

Enable Airplane Mode

Turning on your airplane mode is not only required on most flights, but it also works as a great battery saver. When in this mode, your phone goes off in terms of cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth radios. Just ensure that you switch on the airplane mode immediately after you enter the plane.

Adjust Your Phone's Settings

There are very few other things that can be done to maximize battery life on your phone: reduce screen brightness, stop background app refreshing, and close apps that are not actively used. These little things do help considerably in improving the battery consumption of the phone while on the flight.

Carry a Spare Battery (If Applicable)

A fully charged battery is suitable for your phone, but in the case of a removable one, carrying an extra, fully charged battery is crucial. In any case, if your phone runs out of juice halfway through the flight, just change the battery and use your phone without any inconvenience. Of course, not all phones can do this, and airlines probably won't allow you to carry those spare batteries in your cabin bag.

What power banks are allowed on airplanes?

Many of the laid-out rules and regulations by the aviation authorities regarding traveling with power banks need to be followed to the letter so that passengers and the safety of the aircraft are not compromised in any way. Here is what you need to know about power banks allowed to be taken onto airplanes:

Capacity Limitations. Only power banks up to 100 watt-hours (Wh) per battery are allowed in carry-on bags. This means a 3.7-volt power bank can be about 26,800mAh. Those higher than 100Wh are prohibited, except for those up to 160Wh (approximately 43,000mAh), for which airline approval is needed.

Number Limits: You can bring a reasonable number of power banks in your hand luggage. Quantity may vary with each different airline, but most of the time, you are allowed two power banks per person.

For Carry-On Only: Power banks should strictly be carried in hand luggage and never in checked baggage. If the power bank goes bad or catches fire, it can be attended to immediately in the cabin.

Proper Storage: Power banks should be kept safe from physical damage and short circuits. They should be put in a separate pouch or case to avoid contact with other metallic objects.

Quality and safety: If you need to buy a power bank, stick with good brands that have had the necessary safety testing and certification. Do not buy cheap, uncertified power banks since it has a high chance of either malfunctioning or catching fire.

UGREEN offers a line of flight-safe power banks packaged with safety features and within the allowed capacity. That said, this is an ideal choice to keep your device powered on during a flight.

FAQ about "Can You Charge Your Phone on a Plane?"

Do airplanes have charging stations?

Some of the newer aircraft have these charging stations added to their galleys or lounges, which come equipped with USB ports and power outlets so that the passenger can have their device charged while in flight.

How can I track my phone's battery when flying?

Battery Life and Battery Saver applications for sending low power notifications and estimating the remaining usage time. Monitor the status of the battery throughout the flight.

Do phone chargers work on airplanes?

You can use your regular phone wall charger and USB cable at the airplane's power outlets and USB ports. Power is typically between 15 and 30 watts.

Conclusion

Can you charge your phone on an airplane? It's more than possible, but a little precaution does not harm. With the know-how about your airline's policy on charging, bringing along the essentials, and utilizing the above tips, you are sure your phone will be at full charge and in good shape for use throughout the flight.
For a broad range of dependable charging accessories—from portable usb chargers to charging cables—simply look into the collection of chargers from UGREEN. And while at it, do not forget to carry a dependable power bank in case your flights are long and charging options are minimal.