Where to Find Free Charging Stations at Every Major US Airport

Dead phone batteries and dying laptops create travel anxiety that’s entirely avoidable. Major airports have invested heavily in charging infrastructure, but knowing where to find outlets—especially the less crowded ones—can make the difference between a productive layover and a frustrating search. Here’s your guide to powering up at America’s busiest airports.

Airports With the Best Charging Infrastructure

Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL): The world’s busiest airport has invested accordingly. Charging stations appear throughout all concourses, with power outlets built into most gate seating. The international terminal features USB ports at every seat in the gate areas.

Denver (DEN): The recently renovated gates include power outlets at virtually every seat. Charging tables near food courts provide additional options. The airport’s commitment to traveler amenities makes finding power straightforward.

Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW): Skylink stations include charging counters, and gate areas feature built-in outlets. The terminals were designed with modern power needs in mind, making outlet hunting unnecessary for most travelers.

Airports Where Charging Remains Challenging

New York LaGuardia (LGA): The ongoing renovations have improved some terminals dramatically while leaving others outdated. Terminal B’s new areas offer excellent charging; older sections remain limited. Check which terminal you’re using before assuming power availability.

Chicago Midway (MDW): The smaller airport has fewer amenities overall, including limited charging infrastructure. Arrive with full batteries or claim spots near the few available outlets early.

Boston Logan (BOS): Charging options vary dramatically by terminal. Terminal E (international) offers decent infrastructure; older domestic terminals can leave travelers scrambling for the few available outlets.

Hidden Charging Spots Most Travelers Miss

Look for charging stations near restrooms. Many airports installed outlets in these less-trafficked areas, and they’re frequently overlooked by travelers camping at gates.

Check near customer service desks. These areas often have accessible outlets that aren’t mobbed by other travelers. A polite ask usually gets permission to charge nearby.

Food court seating sometimes includes power outlets that restaurant-goers overlook. A coffee purchase might come with an uncontested outlet for your devices.

Charging Equipment Worth Carrying

A portable battery pack eliminates outlet dependency entirely. Models with 20,000+ mAh capacity can fully charge a phone multiple times and provide emergency laptop power. The peace of mind often outweighs the minor weight addition.

Carry a compact power strip or multi-port charger. When you find an outlet, you can charge multiple devices simultaneously—and make friends by sharing access with fellow travelers.

A short extension cord solves the problem of outlets positioned behind furniture or in awkward locations. Two feet of extra reach opens up many otherwise unusable outlets.

Charging Etiquette

Don’t monopolize outlets longer than necessary. Charge what you need and move on so others can access power. Avoid spreading equipment across multiple outlets when one will do.

Ask before unplugging someone else’s device, even if it appears fully charged. A quick courtesy request avoids conflict and follows basic traveler etiquette.