Vape Shops: Accessible In Airports?

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people turning to vapes as an alternative to smoking cigarettes. However, if you're planning on flying, you may be wondering if you can buy a vape at the airport. The answer depends on the airport and the country you're in. In the UK, for example, most airports do not sell vapes due to a government ban on the sale of vapes in most retail stores. However, some airports, such as London Heathrow, do have vape shops or duty-free stores that sell vapes. When it comes to vaping policies, some airports are more lenient than others. While vaping is allowed in the terminal at certain airports, such as Heathrow, it is prohibited at others, like Glasgow and Edinburgh. Additionally, there is a worldwide ban on transporting vapes in checked luggage due to fire safety concerns. So, if you're a vaper, it's important to plan ahead and be aware of the regulations at your departure and destination airports.

Vape shops in airports

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people now using vapes as an alternative to smoking cigarettes. However, if you are planning on flying, you may be wondering if you can buy a vape at the airport. The answer to this question depends on the airport and the country you are in. Some airports may not sell vapes at all, while others may have a limited selection. Additionally, some countries have strict regulations on the sale of vapes, so it's important to research the laws of your destination before you travel.

If you are able to purchase vapes at the airport, you will likely find them in duty-free shops or specialty stores. It's important to keep in mind that the prices of vapes at the airport may be higher than what you would pay at a regular vape shop.

Some of the major airports that have vape shops include:

• London Heathrow Airport
• Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• Dubai International Airport
• Singapore Changi Airport

In these shops, you can find a variety of vaping products from different brands and get advice from the staff on which products are best for you.

While you can find vape shops in some airports, it is important to note that vaping is not allowed in most airports and on airplanes due to the harmful fumes produced. If you plan to vape at the airport, you should check the airport's rules and only vape in designated smoking areas, usually located outside of the terminal building.

When travelling with vapes, it is important to know the transportation rules to avoid any issues. Most airports allow passengers to carry vaping devices in their carry-on luggage, but they are not allowed in checked luggage due to the fire hazard posed by the lithium-ion batteries used in vaping devices.

Vaping on planes

Airport Vaping Policies

Most airports have designated areas for vaping, and some are more lenient than others. For example, in the UK, vaping is allowed at Heathrow as far as the gate, but Glasgow and Edinburgh airports do not permit vaping anywhere within the terminal.

On Board

It is unlikely that you will be able to vape on board. Some people have reported vaping in the plane bathrooms, but this is not advisable as it is a federal crime to smoke on a plane, and you may be caught by smoke detectors or the smell given off.

Airline Policies

Most airlines have rules in place regarding e-cigs, with most allowing them to be stored in carry-on luggage. It is always a good idea to check the airline's website or contact them directly to find out their policy.

Battery and Liquid Restrictions

There is a worldwide ban on transporting e-cigs in checked luggage due to the fire risk posed by lithium-ion batteries. E-liquids are also subject to the same restrictions as other liquids and must be under 3.4 ounces (100ml) and in a clear, quart-sized, plastic, sealable bag.

Vaping in airports

Vape Shops in Airports

Vape shops can be found in airports, but their availability varies depending on the airport and the country. Some airports may not sell vapes, while others may offer a limited selection or sell them in duty-free shops. It's important to research the laws and regulations of your destination before assuming you can buy vapes at the airport.

Some major airports with vape shops include London Heathrow, Amsterdam Schiphol, Dubai International, and Singapore Changi. These shops are typically located in the departure area after security, allowing travellers to purchase vaping products before their flight.

Airport Vaping Policies

Most airports do have vaping policies in place, and some are more lenient than others. Vaping is often restricted to designated smoking areas, usually located outside the terminal building. Failure to comply may result in fines or even arrest. It's essential to check the airport's rules on vaping before travelling and to be respectful of other passengers and staff.

Airline E-Cig Policies

Most airlines have established rules regarding e-cigs, and it's unlikely that vaping is permitted onboard. However, you can usually store your e-cig in your carry-on bag. It's recommended to contact the airline directly or check their website for specific e-cig policies.

Transportation of Vaping Devices

When travelling with vaping devices, it's crucial to follow transportation safety rules. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), electronic smoking devices are only allowed in carry-on baggage due to fire safety concerns. Vaping devices must be turned off before boarding, and batteries may need to be removed and stored separately in a plastic bag.

Additionally, there are restrictions on the type and quantity of batteries and liquid cartridges. Each lithium-ion battery must not exceed a Watt-hour rating of 100 Wh, and lithium-metal batteries must not contain more than 2 grams of lithium. Liquid cartridges are subject to the TSA liquids 3-1-1 rule, limiting containers to 3.4 ounces (100ml) and requiring placement in a clear, quart-sized, plastic bag.

International Travel Considerations

When travelling internationally, it's important to be aware of the laws and regulations of your destination country regarding vaping. Some countries have strict regulations or even bans on the sale and use of vaping products. For example, Australia prohibits the sale of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes and e-liquids, while Singapore has similar restrictions on the import, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes.

Alternatives to Buying Vapes at Airports

If you're unable to find vapes at the airport, there are a few alternatives. You can bring your own vape, ensuring you comply with TSA guidelines for carrying them on planes. Additionally, you can research vape shops near your destination or order a vape online to be delivered to your destination, avoiding the need to carry it on the plane.

Vape transportation rules

When travelling with vapes, it's important to know the relevant transportation rules to avoid any issues at the airport. Here are the rules regarding carrying vapes in your luggage:

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), electronic smoking devices are only allowed in carry-on baggage. You cannot pack vapes in checked luggage. When packing your vape in carry-on luggage, you must take effective measures to prevent the accidental activation of the device during transportation.

Each lithium-ion battery must not exceed a watt-hour (Wh) rating of 100 Wh, and for lithium-metal batteries, the lithium content must not be more than 2 grams. Make sure to store your batteries in a case to prevent short circuits.

Liquid cartridges, such as JUULpods, are subject to the TSA liquids 3-1-1 rule. This means that all liquid containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller and must be placed in a clear, quart-sized, plastic, sealable bag.

As mentioned, vapes are prohibited in checked luggage. The FAA prohibits electronic cigarettes and other vaping devices in checked bags due to the potential fire risk. Lithium-ion batteries can cause fires if they are damaged or short-circuited.

If you have any doubts about whether you can pack your vape in carry-on luggage, it's best to check with your airline before you travel, as different airlines may have different rules.

Remember to follow these rules to ensure that your vape travels safely with you.

Vaping in other countries

Vaping laws vary across the world, and it's important to research the regulations of your destination before you travel. Here is an overview of some vaping laws in different countries:

United Kingdom: Vaping is allowed in some airports, such as Heathrow, but not in others like Glasgow and Edinburgh. From July 2024, all e-cigarettes and vaping products can only be sold in pharmacies. Flavours are restricted to mint, menthol, and tobacco, and therapeutic vapes with a nicotine concentration of more than 20 mg/mL require a prescription.

United States: The use of e-cigarettes on commercial flights is banned. The legal age to purchase vaping products varies but is almost always 18 or older. Some states have raised the minimum age to 21. Vaping laws vary by state and locality; some states prohibit vaping wherever smoking is banned, while others have no laws regarding vaping.

Australia: As of October 1, 2021, a medical prescription is required to purchase nicotine cartridges, and state laws prohibit the sale and possession of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes without a prescription.

European Union: The EU Tobacco Products Directive provides stricter regulations for e-cigarettes, limiting advertising, nicotine levels, and flavours used. It requires purchasers to be at least 18.

Canada: In 2014, e-cigarettes containing nicotine were technically illegal to sell, but this was generally unenforced. In 2016, Health Canada announced plans to regulate vaping products, and as of July 2023, the import of nicotine-containing cartridges has been legalised.

Turkey: Vaping kits and e-liquids cannot be purchased as none have been successfully licensed, but you can use your own vape. Vaping is not allowed indoors.

Spain: Vaping is banned on many beaches in the Balearic Islands and Barcelona, with fines up to 2,000 euros for those caught breaking the rules. A new anti-smoking plan further limits smoking and vaping areas and increases tobacco prices.

France: The French parliament has voted to ban single-use e-cigarettes, but the law still needs government and EU approval.

Portugal: Vaping is treated the same as smoking and is banned in all public enclosed spaces, bars, restaurants, and clubs. Fines for disobeying the law can reach 750 euros.

Italy: Vaping is legal but banned in enclosed spaces. Violators face fines ranging from €27.50 to €550.

Greece: Disposable vapes are legal and can be purchased without a prescription, but there are regulations on nicotine content and e-liquid cartridge size.

Singapore: The import, distribution, or sale of e-cigarettes is illegal, and violators can face fines or imprisonment.

It is important to stay informed about the laws and regulations of your destination country, as they can change over time and vary significantly across the world.

Frequently asked questions