Long-haul travel sometimes means not knowing when you can next charge your phone, even if you find a charging port. However, remembering this one cable will help you keep your device charged.

Bringing a USB-A Cable Is a Good Idea

USB-C connectorsare becoming the norm with iPhones and other devices, and in the EU, all of your latest tech will come with a USB-C cable by law. However, many European and US airlines haven’t yet caught up. For example, when I went to Iceland in January 2025, my Icelandair flight only had USB-A chargers.

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 this in your bag. Alternatively, buying one before your trip is a good idea. Some airlines (e.g., Virgin Atlantic) have wall-style plug sockets between seats, but this is not universal.

apple lightning to usb c cable

Can I Check the USB Cable Before My Flight?

you’re able to sometimes check the USB cable you can expect on your flight beforehand. Start by looking at your flight booking reservation and finding the plane model you’ll fly on. From there, you can go to the airline’s website and search for more information. Alternatively, type “[plane model] usb charging port” in a search engine instead.

The information you find on airline websites will depend on who you’re flying with. Therefore, knowing alternative options is a good idea. Reddit is a great travel resource in general, and you can search for the USB port you can expect to find on your flight. Go to the airline’s subreddit and ask if you can’t find any questions in the search bar.

Even if you find the information you need, some airlines can change your plane model before the flight. So, if you want tostay stress-free while traveling, I still suggest bringing a USB-A cable.

New planes will inevitably get USB-C charging ports in years to come, but coverage still isn’t widespread at the time of writing. As such, being prepared is a good idea. Packing a USB-A cable will save a lot of stress, and ordering one before your trip is, therefore, a good idea.