How to choose an emergency power bank

What to look for

Tick each point the product you are considering meets.

• Choose certified products that meet recognised battery safety standards.^[1]
• Look for compliance with international standards such as IEC 62133 for the battery.^[2]
• Check for protection against overcharging, short circuits and overheating, plus automatic cut-off when full.^[2]
• Pick one with a charge-level indicator so you can see how much power is left.^[2]
• Make sure it comes with instructions, charging guidance and its operating temperature range.^[2]
• Buy from reputable retailers or authorised sellers, ideally with a warranty and local service support.^[2]
• Check the watt-hour (Wh) rating is printed on it. Under US FAA rules, up to 100 Wh needs no airline approval; check your airline's own limits before flying.^[3]

Avoid

• Never leave power banks or spare batteries in direct sunlight or a hot vehicle: it is a fire risk.^[1]
• Stop using it if it gets very hot, swells, changes shape or colour, smells, leaks or makes noises.^[1]
• Be wary of 'government approved' claims on packaging; in some countries power banks are not pre-approved.^[2]
• Never pack a power bank in checked luggage; it must travel in your carry-on.^[3]

After you buy

• Keep your power bank and other backup batteries charged so they are ready when needed.^[4]
• Store at room temperature, away from sunlight and anything that can burn.^[1]
• Do not store it with coins, keys or other metal objects that could short the ports.^[2]
• Charge with the original cable, never on a bed or soft furnishings, and do not overcharge.^[2]
• Recycle old or damaged power banks at a battery or e-waste point, never in household rubbish.^[1]