Vaping Rules: What To Know Before Your Next Flight

Vaping devices and e-cigarettes are allowed on planes but only in carry-on luggage. This is because the lithium batteries in vapes pose a fire risk and are not allowed in the cargo hold. The same rule applies to spare batteries. Vape liquids are also subject to the same restrictions on liquids as other toiletries, so they must be in containers of no more than 100ml and fit into a clear 1-quart bag.

Vapes are allowed in carry-on luggage, but not in checked luggage

If you attempt to pack a vape into your hold luggage, it will almost certainly be flagged by scanning machines, and staff will have to take you aside, causing delays. No item that contains lithium batteries will be allowed to be kept in the hold. You will be expected to keep your vape on you and ensure it is attended to for the duration of the flight.

If your carry-on bag is checked at the gate or plane side, all vapes and vaping devices, along with any spare lithium batteries, must be removed from the bag and should be taken with you in the aircraft cabin.

Different airlines have different rules about how many vapes you can take on board. For example, Easyjet only allows a maximum of two spare batteries for your vape to be carried on board per person, whereas Air Lingus allows up to four vape devices per person.

It is worth noting that while you can take your vape on a plane, you are not allowed to use it during the flight. There are legal repercussions, from lifetime bans to steep fines and possibly jail time. The majority of airlines have detectors in their onboard toilets as well as elsewhere in the aircraft, so you should never assume you can get away with taking even one puff.

Vape liquids are subject to the TSA 3-1-1 rule

For example, if you're bringing your favourite shampoo or conditioner on a weekend trip, or if you need to take contact solution on your flight, you must follow the 3-1-1 rule to get through TSA security without any issues. It is recommended that you purchase travel-size bottles and fill them with enough product to last you through your trip. Then, pack each bottle inside a quart-sized ziplock or other sealable plastic bag. You should be able to fit four or five bottles inside the bag.

The same rule applies to vape liquids. Since they are considered liquids, they must follow the normal security rules regarding liquids. This means that you can bring vape liquids in your carry-on luggage as long as the container is 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller and fits inside your one quart clear zip-top liquids bag. If you need to bring larger amounts of vape liquid, you must pack them in your checked luggage.

It's important to note that while you can bring vape liquids in your carry-on, the device itself must be kept in your carry-on as well and cannot be used or turned on during the flight. Vapes are not allowed in checked luggage due to the risk of the batteries catching fire. Additionally, make sure to check the local laws and regulations of your destination, as some countries may have different rules or even ban vapes and electronic cigarettes.

Vape devices must be disassembled and placed in a tray/bin for X-ray scanning

When travelling with a vape, it is important to remember that you must disassemble your device and place it in a tray or bin for X-ray scanning. This is a standard security procedure and will allow the security staff to ensure your device is safe for travel.

The first step is to separate your vape device into its components: the battery, tank, and any other detachable parts. Place these items in a tray or bin provided at the security checkpoint. If you have a vape case, you can also place the disassembled device in the case and then into the tray or bin. Ensure that your device is easily accessible and not packed away in your luggage, as this will cause delays.

It is also important to remember that you cannot pack your vape device in your checked baggage or hold luggage. All vape devices, including vape pens, mods, and disposable vapes, must be placed in your carry-on luggage or hand luggage. This is due to the lithium-ion batteries in these devices, which pose a fire risk if stored in the cargo hold. By carrying your device with you, you can also ensure it is not damaged or lost during transit.

In addition to the device itself, you should also consider how to pack your vape liquids and batteries. Vape liquids are subject to the same restrictions as other liquids and must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller, placed in a clear, quart-sized (1 litre) zip-top bag. These liquids can be packed in your carry-on or checked baggage, but it is recommended to keep them with you to avoid leaks due to air pressure changes.

Rechargeable vape batteries should always be packed in your carry-on baggage. It is recommended to use a plastic battery case to avoid accidents and ensure the batteries do not come into contact with metal objects. Keep in mind that some airlines have specific rules regarding the number of spare batteries you can carry on board.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure your vape device is properly disassembled and scanned, making your travel experience smoother and safer.

Vape devices with lithium batteries cannot be packed in checked luggage due to fire hazards

Vape devices with lithium batteries cannot be packed in checked luggage due to the risk of fire hazards. All electronic devices containing lithium batteries, including vapes, are prohibited from being packed in checked luggage. This is because lithium batteries can catch fire if damaged or if their terminals are short-circuited. In the event of a fire, smoke, or explosion, flight attendants can respond to the issue more quickly if the device is in the cabin.

Federal rules mandate that lithium batteries must be packed in carry-on luggage or left at home. If you are travelling with a vape device, it must be packed in your carry-on luggage. This is a worldwide rule with no exceptions. If you accidentally pack your vape in your checked luggage, it will likely be confiscated by security.

To prevent issues with lithium batteries, passengers should notify flight attendants if their device is overheating, expanding, smoking, or burning. Additionally, passengers can protect themselves and others by keeping their devices in a protective sleeve or case.

Vaping is prohibited on planes and in most airports

Vaping devices are allowed in carry-on baggage, but passengers must take effective measures to prevent the accidental activation of the device. This means that the vape must be switched off and stowed away in your carry-on baggage or pocket for the duration of the flight. The same rules apply to e-cigarettes.

Vapes and e-cigarettes cannot be packed in checked luggage due to safety concerns. These devices contain lithium batteries, which pose a fire risk. In 2022, they were the leading cause of lithium battery incidents on aircraft.

If you are caught vaping on a plane, you can be arrested and fined. The use of vapes and e-cigarettes on aircraft is prohibited by federal law, and the risk is not worth the potential consequences.

Some airports may have designated smoking areas that allow vaping, but it is important to check with the specific airport or look out for signage.

When travelling with vape liquid, it is important to follow the standard liquid restrictions. The liquid must be in a container that is 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller and must fit in a 1-quart clear zip-top bag.

It is important to note that the rules for travelling with vapes may vary slightly depending on the airline and the country you are visiting. It is always a good idea to consult the relevant authorities before your trip to ensure you are compliant with all regulations.

Frequently asked questions