Why Should You Bring a USB-A Cable on Long Flights?

Carrying a USB-A cable is a good idea

USB-C connectors are becoming the norm with iPhones and other devices, and in the EU, by law, all your latest tech should come with a USB-C cable. However, many European and US airlines have yet to catch on.

On many planes, you can still only charge your device with a USB-A cable, so if you have one from an old device, you should pack it in your bag. It's also a good idea to buy a new cable before your trip. Some airlines have wall outlets between seats, but they're not common.

Can USB cables be checked before flight?

Sometimes you can check to see if a USB cable is available on your flight in advance. Start by looking at your flight reservations and finding the model of aircraft you'll be flying on. From there, you can visit the airline's website and look for more information. Alternatively, type "[aircraft model] USB charging port" into a search engine.

The information you find on the airline's website will depend on who you're flying with, so it's a good idea to know your options. Reddit is a great source of general travel information, and you can search for USB ports you can expect to find on your flight. Go to the airline's subreddit and ask if you can't find any information in the search bar.

Even if you find the information you need, some airlines may change their aircraft models before your flight, so if you don't want unnecessary worries to get in the way of your trip, you might want to bring a USB-A cable.

New planes will certainly get USB-C charging ports in the coming years, but coverage isn't widespread yet at the time of writing, so it's a good idea to be prepared. Packing a USB-A cable will save you a lot of stress, so order one before you go.