Yes, you can take a power bank in your hand luggage, but never in your checked bags. Most airlines allow power banks up to 100Wh (watt-hours) without fuss. Above that, you’ll need to check with the airline in advance. Make sure it's clearly labelled with mAh or Wh, pack it in your carry-on, and don’t use it during take-off or landing. Some flights feel long enough without extra drama.

To safely charge and use a power bank, stick with a certified cable and reliable USB charger - it’s not worth scrimping here. Avoid charging too many gadgets at once, keep it out of baking sun or frosty corners, and never leave it on a bed or sofa unattended. A good model includes safety features like overcharge protection. As we say, better safe than frazzled.

A power bank stores electrical energy, so you can charge devices like phones or tablets when the mains is miles away. Inside, a rechargeable battery passes power through a USB or similar port. Some versions offer perks like fast-charging or solar top-ups, but all do the same essential job. Top models use high-quality lithium-ion or lithium-polymer cells, good for hundreds of uses.

The most buy-it-for-life power banks have long-lasting batteries, tough casings, and repairable designs. Look for models with replaceable ports or cables, plus strong warranties - some offer 10-year coverage or lifetime servicing. Brands that focus on sustainability often state battery life cycles and support repairs. A fix over a landfill? That’s a thumbs-up from us. See our tech collection here.

A good quality power bank can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years if properly cared for. Most solid models offer 500 to 1,000 charge cycles without noticeable drop in performance. Lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries are both common - the key is build quality, not just chemistry. Extended warranties often speak volumes about how much faith a brand has in its kit.

To keep your power bank going strong, store it in a cool, dry place and top it up every few months if it’s not in use. Extreme heat or cold can shorten battery life, and overcharging is best avoided. Easy wins, really. For more handy tips, head to our guide on how to make your charger cable last longer or browse our product care and repair advice.

Looking for travel tech that won’t give up after one holiday? Have a browse through our long-lasting travel staples. These are smart gadgets and accessories made with durability and repairability in mind - and curated to help you pack lighter, not landfill.

We choose our power banks through careful research, testing each option for durability, repairability and real-life performance. Products must meet our quality thresholds for materials and design, with solid warranties to match. Curious to peek behind the curtain? Find out exactly how we find the most durable buy-it-for-life products.