Solar Charger
A solar charger's rules depend on whether it stores power in a built-in battery — a panel-only charger is unrestricted, but a solar power bank follows the same carry-on-only rules as any power bank.
Carry-on
Allowed with conditions
Checked
Allowed with conditions
Carry-on details
Allowed, but check your model. A pure solar panel with no internal battery (it only outputs power while in the sun) is unrestricted. Many "solar chargers" sold to travelers are actually solar power banks with a built-in lithium battery — those follow the standard rule: fine up to 100 Wh without airline approval, 100–160 Wh with approval, and not allowed over 160 Wh.
Checked-bag details
Depends on the battery. A battery-free solar panel can go in a checked bag. A solar power bank cannot — like any spare lithium battery, it must stay in your carry-on because of fire risk.
Quantity limit
100 wh (per item)
Special instructions
Check your product's spec sheet or label for a battery/Wh rating. If it lists a watt-hour or mAh capacity, treat it exactly like a power bank; if it has no internal cell, it's just a panel and carries no restriction.
Related rules
FAQ
- Are solar chargers allowed in checked luggage?
- Only if they have no built-in battery. Most solar chargers sold today are solar power banks with an internal lithium battery, and those must stay in your carry-on, never checked.
Related items
Sources: FAA — PackSafe (Hazardous Materials), TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-30
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.