Vapes In Airports: Availability And Accessibility

Vaping has become increasingly popular in recent years, and many airports have started accommodating vapers. However, the availability of vapes at airports varies depending on the airport and the country. Some airports may not sell vapes at all, while others may offer them in duty-free shops or specialty stores. It's important to note that vaping is prohibited in most airports and airplanes due to the harmful fumes produced and the fire hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries. When travelling with a vape, it's crucial to follow the airport's regulations and policies, including designated smoking areas and restrictions on liquids.

Vape availability in airports

The availability of vapes at airports varies depending on the airport and the country. Some airports may not sell vapes, while others may offer a limited selection in duty-free shops or specialty stores. It is important to research the laws and regulations of your destination before travelling, as some countries have strict rules regarding the sale of vapes.

United Kingdom

In the UK, most airports do not sell vapes due to a government ban on the sale of vapes in most retail stores. However, some airports may sell vapes in duty-free shops. Out of the 18 busiest UK airports, almost half offer designated smoking areas outside the terminal buildings where vaping is allowed. These include Manchester, Bristol, Birmingham, Luton, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Newcastle, and Aberdeen.

United States

In the US, the legal age to purchase vaping products is 21. It is important to check the local laws and regulations of your destination, as they may vary from state to state. Some US airports that offer indoor vaping areas include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Nashville International Airport.

Other Countries

When travelling internationally, it is crucial to research the customs and duty fees, as well as the laws and regulations of your destination country. Vaping laws vary widely across the world, with some countries banning it entirely, such as Singapore and Australia, while others allowing it with certain restrictions.

Alternatives

If you are unable to find vapes at the airport, there are a few alternatives. You can bring your own vape, ensuring you follow the relevant guidelines for carrying vapes on planes. You can also buy a vape at your destination or order one online to be delivered there. Additionally, nicotine gum or patches can be purchased at most drugstores.

Vaping in airports

Buying Vapes at Airports

The availability of vapes for purchase at airports varies depending on the airport and country. Some airports may not sell vapes, while others may offer a limited selection in duty-free shops or specialty stores. It is important to research the laws and regulations of your destination before travelling, as some countries have strict rules regarding the sale of vapes. Additionally, prices for vapes at airports may be higher than at regular vape shops, and international travel may incur customs and duty fees.

Airport Regulations and Policies

Most airports allow passengers to carry vaping devices in their carry-on luggage, but not in checked luggage, due to the fire hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries. It is important to ensure your vaping device is turned off before boarding and to follow any additional airport-specific regulations, such as removing and separately storing batteries.

Country-Specific Restrictions

Some countries have specific restrictions on vaping devices and liquids. For example, the sale and use of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes and e-liquids are illegal in Australia, while Singapore prohibits the import, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes. The legal age to purchase vaping products also varies by country and state, so it is important to be aware of the local laws.

Vaping Areas at Airports

While vaping is banned on all major airlines, some airports provide designated smoking areas that can be used by vapers. These areas are usually located outdoors, beyond the security checkpoints, and may require a fee to access. It is important to check with the specific airport and airline before travelling, as regulations can vary.

Travelling with Vapes and E-Liquids

When travelling with vapes and e-liquids, it is important to follow the relevant guidelines and restrictions. Vaping devices must be carried in carry-on luggage and separated from any attached pods or tanks. E-liquids are subject to the same restrictions as other liquids, with containers not exceeding 100ml and stored in a clear, resealable plastic bag. It is recommended to check the latest guidelines before travelling, as regulations can change.

Vaping on planes

Vaping on airplanes is prohibited since 2016. This regulation was enacted to limit vulnerable passengers' exposure to second-hand smoke. In addition, the lithium batteries in vapes pose a fire risk due to their chemical composition. As such, passengers are not allowed to use their vapes during a flight and will face repercussions if they are caught.

Airport Vaping Policies

Vaping policies vary depending on the airport and country. Some airports may not allow vaping inside the terminal buildings, while others may offer designated outdoor smoking areas for vapers and smokers. It is important to check the regulations of the specific airport before travelling.

Carrying Vapes on Planes

While vaping on planes is prohibited, flying with a vape is allowed. Most airlines permit passengers to carry vaping devices and a small amount of e-liquid in their carry-on luggage but not in checked luggage. This is because the lithium-ion batteries in vaping devices pose a fire hazard if they malfunction. It is important to ensure that the vape is turned off and properly stored during the flight.

International Travel Considerations

When travelling internationally, it is important to research the laws and regulations of the destination country regarding the sale and use of vapes. Some countries have strict restrictions or bans on vapes, and failure to comply can result in fines or other penalties.

Alternatives to Vaping on Planes

For individuals who struggle with nicotine cravings during long flights, there are alternative options to consider. These include nicotine gum or patches, which can be purchased at most drugstores. Planning ahead and making arrangements for vaping needs before travelling can help avoid any inconvenience or non-compliance with regulations.

Vaping in different countries

Vaping laws vary across the world, with some countries banning e-cigarettes entirely, and others allowing their use in certain designated areas. Here is a breakdown of vaping regulations in different countries:

United Kingdom

Vaping is not allowed in most UK airport terminals, but some airports provide designated outdoor smoking areas that can be used by vapers. In the UK, you can carry your e-cigarette and a small amount of e-liquid in your hand luggage, but vaping is prohibited during the flight.

United States

The US has varying vaping laws across different states. Some states, like Florida, prohibit vaping in restaurants, while in other localities, such as Miami, vaping is allowed in bars. California has stricter regulations, with e-cigarette use prohibited in workplaces, restaurants, and bars. The legal age to purchase vaping products in the US is 21.

Australia

Australia has one of the strictest approaches to vaping, with all vapes being illegal. Possession of vapes can result in prison sentences of up to two years and hefty fines of around £24,000.

France

The French parliament has voted to ban single-use e-cigarettes, and if the bill receives government and EU approval, it is expected to come into effect by September 2024.

Spain

Spain has implemented a new anti-smoking plan, which includes a crackdown on vaping. People are banned from smoking and vaping on many beaches, including all 10 Barcelona beaches, and in several areas of the Balearic Islands. Violators of these rules can face fines of up to 2,000 euros.

Portugal

In Portugal, vaping is treated similarly to smoking and is regulated by the EU Tobacco Products Directive. Vaping is banned in all enclosed public spaces, bars, restaurants, and clubs. Fines for disobeying these rules can reach 750 euros.

Italy

Vaping is legal in Italy, but it is banned in enclosed spaces, and some regions like Veneto and Sardinia are completely smoke-free. Violators of these regulations can be fined between €27.50 and €550.

Greece

Disposable vapes are legal in Greece, and there are no restrictions on their use in public places. However, regulations control the maximum nicotine content and the size of e-liquid cartridges.

Turkey

While vaping kits and e-liquids are not available for purchase in Turkey due to licensing issues, you can use any vapes you bring into the country. Vaping is not permitted indoors.

It is important to note that regulations are subject to change, and travellers are advised to research the latest laws of their destination countries before their journey.

Vaping and airport security

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 how airport security works for vapers. Here is everything you need to know about vaping and airport security:

Buying Vapes at the Airport

Firstly, it is important to note that the availability of vapes at airports may vary depending on the airport and the country you are in. Some airports may not sell vapes at all, while others may have a limited selection or sell them in duty-free shops. Additionally, some countries may have strict regulations or even bans on the sale of vapes, so it is crucial to research the laws of your destination before you travel. It is also a good idea to check the airport's website or contact their customer service for specific information.

Carrying Vapes Through Airport Security

When it comes to carrying vapes through airport security, most airports around the world allow passengers to carry vaping devices in their carry-on luggage. However, it is important to note that vaping devices are not allowed in checked luggage due to safety concerns. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), electronic smoking devices are only permitted in carry-on baggage. This is because the lithium-ion batteries used in vaping devices pose a fire hazard if they malfunction. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the TSA guidelines for carrying vapes on a plane.

Vaping at the Airport

Vaping is generally not allowed inside airport terminals due to the harmful fumes it produces, which can irritate other passengers and staff. However, some airports may provide designated smoking areas, usually located outdoors, where vaping may be permitted. These areas are often signposted and can be found before or after security. It is crucial to respect the rules of the airport and only vape in designated areas to avoid fines or arrest. Remember to be respectful of others, dispose of your vape cartridges and batteries properly, and never leave your vape unattended.

Vaping on the Plane

Vaping onboard any airline is prohibited, and you will not be able to use your vape pen at any point during the flight. This includes during boarding, inside the plane, and when disembarking. Most airlines will provide specific instructions prohibiting the use of vaping devices during the flight.

Travelling with E-Liquids

If you are travelling with e-liquids, it is important to follow the same regulations as for other liquids. Your carry-on luggage must adhere to the liquid restrictions, typically limiting containers to a maximum of 100ml and storing them in a clear, resealable plastic bag. These restrictions apply to e-liquids and any other liquid components of your vaping device, such as cartridges or tanks.

In conclusion, while vaping may be a popular alternative to smoking, there are important security considerations to keep in mind when travelling with vapes. Always research the regulations of your departure and destination airports and airlines, and follow their guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Frequently asked questions