China Power Bank Rules on Flights and Trains (3C, 100Wh)

Quick answer: On domestic flights in China, carry your power bank in hand luggage with a clear 3C (CCC) mark, not recalled, and rated 100Wh or less. Between 100Wh and 160Wh you need airline approval and may carry two. Above 160Wh is banned. Trains allow a clearly marked power bank up to 100Wh.

Power banks are the one item travelers get stopped for most often at Chinese security. The rules are simple, but the 3C mark requirement catches people who bought a power bank overseas.

Domestic flights in China

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has banned certain power banks on domestic flights since 28 June 2025. Reuters reported the ban on 27 June 2025, and the CAAC notice dated 26 June 2025 announced it.

Some airlines add rules, such as a limit on use in the cabin. China Southern's general conditions of carriage, for example, repeat the 100Wh to 160Wh approval rule and limit of two. Check your airline's page before you fly.

In-flight use and the ICAO change

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) announced new rules that took effect on 27 March 2026. Each passenger may carry no more than two power banks, and recharging a power bank during a flight is prohibited. The ICAO also recommends against using a power bank to charge devices in flight. Airlines apply this in their own way, so the safe approach is to keep the power bank in a seat pocket or bag and not to charge it, or charge from it, during the flight.

International flights

The 3C mark requirement from the CAAC applies to domestic flights. On international flights, your airline's rules and the ICAO limits apply. Power banks rated up to 100Wh are normally fine if carried in the cabin.

How to find the Wh rating

Look for "Wh" on the label. If only mAh and V are printed, calculate Wh = mAh x V / 1000. For example, 20,000 mAh at 3.7 V is 74Wh, which is under 100Wh. A power bank above about 27,000 mAh will exceed 100Wh. Where the Wh figure is on the label, trust it.

What the 3C mark looks like

The mark is a "CCC" logo, usually printed on the casing or the label, with a certificate number. Overseas power banks often do not have it. A power bank sold in mainland China is expected to carry it. If your power bank has no CCC mark, you have these options:

• Buy a certified one in China (convenience stores, electronics shops, online). See the cost and brands in our power bank rental guide.
• Rent one in the city, then return it before the airport.
• Do not put it in checked baggage. Power banks are never allowed there.

Trains

The rule for rail comes from the National Railway Administration and Ministry of Public Security's list of items restricted on trains, in force since 1 July 2022. For power banks the rule is: clearly marked, with a rated energy of 100Wh or less per unit.

China State Railway Group customer service told state media in July 2025 that train security does not check for a 3C mark or brand, only that the rated energy is no more than 100Wh. Treat that as a statement of practice, and carry a marked power bank in any case. Rules at individual stations and in some high-risk periods can be tighter, so allow a little extra time at security.

See also how foreigners buy China train tickets and how to book on 12306.

The 31 May 2026 CCC change

On 31 May 2026 the State Administration for Market Regulation and the Certification and Accreditation Administration (CNCA) published Announcement No. 7 of 2026. It is about manufacturing and certification, not passenger rules.

Stronger tests such as thermal abuse and needle-penetration are part of the new standard, according to the regulator. For a traveler, nothing changes at the airport on 31 May 2026. The CAAC's flight rules above stay as they are, unless the CAAC or your airline announces otherwise. Expect Chinese shops to sell newly certified models during 2027. A power bank with an existing valid CCC mark is still fine to carry.

Practical advice

1. Check the label before you leave home: Wh, and the CCC mark if you will fly within China.
2. Put the power bank in your cabin bag. Take it out at security if asked.
3. Do not charge it during the flight.
4. If a security officer says no, you may have to leave it behind. Follow their instruction.
5. For a long trip, consider renting power banks in China and keeping a small certified one for the flight.

For other airport items, see the China airport and customs guide and the pre-departure checklist. Confirm the latest rules with your airline.

FAQ

What are the China power bank rules for flights?

On domestic flights, the power bank must have a clear 3C mark, not be recalled and be in hand luggage. Up to 100Wh is allowed, 100Wh to 160Wh needs airline approval and a maximum of two, and above 160Wh is banned.

Do I need a 3C power bank on a domestic flight in China?

Yes. Since 28 June 2025 the CAAC bans power banks with no 3C mark or an unclear mark on domestic flights. Many overseas power banks lack it.

Can I bring a power bank on a train in China?

Yes, if it is clearly marked and rated at 100Wh or less. According to 12306 customer service in 2025, staff do not check for the 3C mark.

Did the 31 May 2026 rule change what I can carry?

No. It sets a new national safety standard and certification rule for makers, with the standard taking effect on 1 April 2027. It does not change the airline or railway carry rules.

Can I use my power bank during a flight?

ICAO rules effective 27 March 2026 prohibit recharging a power bank in flight. Many airlines also limit using one to charge devices, so check your airline.