If you are an avid vaper, you may wonder whether you can take your trusty vapes for your flights abroad. Well, the answer is tricky. Many countries have completely banned vaping.
On the flip side, places like the USA and UK have less stringent rules on carrying vapes. All countries have a guideline set for them which you need to research before flying.
Let’s discuss the rules and regulations for traveling with vapes on an airplane. We will look at regulations put in order by the TSA and other ministries worldwide. So without much further ado, let’s get down to it.
Summary
- Electric smoking devices were the leading cause of the lithium battery accidents in the aircraft.
- Smoking e-cigarettes was the leading non-compliance issue. (Source: IATA 2022)
- On January 4, 2019, a plane had to land in Chicago as one of the passenger's carry-on bags caught fire for e-cigarette overheating
- Some flights have some restrictions on carrying vapes or using them at all.
- It is best to look into the different TSA rules in place on vaping on planes.
TSA Regulations and Airline Policies
The general TSA rules regarding vapes are clear and available on their website.
In most of the cases, you can travel with your vapes when on a plane.
However:
- They need to be stored in your carry-on luggage.
- E-liquids follow the general rule from the TSA.
- You cannot carry any liquid over 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters.
- They have to be stored in clear quarter-sized bags.
- They have a strict ban on placing them in your checked-in luggage due to fire hazards from the lithium-ion batteries.
- The battery also has to be disassembled from the device itself where applicable.
Airline-Specific Policies
TSA rules are applied overall when flying out of the US. However, many airlines also have their own set of rules regarding vapes and e-cigarettes.
|
Name of Airline |
Policy |
|
Delta Air Lines |
All vape devices are to be stored in carry-on luggage. You cannot charge your devices during the flight. |
|
American Airlines |
Vapes have to be carried in the cabin and cannot be used onboard. Batteries must be individually protected to prevent short circuits. |
|
Southwest Airlines |
It can be taken in carry-on baggage only. Passengers are to remove batteries from devices if possible. |
|
JetBlue Airways |
Prohibits the use of e-cigarettes or any form of tobacco smoking on any flight. |
|
Alaska Airlines |
Needs to be transported in carry-on baggage only. |
How to Pack Your Vape for Air Travel?
Before setting out for the airport, follow the correct way to pack your vape.
- Disassemble the Device: If you use a vape kit, disassemble the device. This step reduces the risk of a faulty battery and ensures that it does not leak. Keep the components separate as it can help during inspection.
- Store Battery Safely: Lithium-ion batteries tend to catch fire easily when they malfunction. Use a case or box to store the battery separately. For built-in batteries, you can turn your device off and lock the device in case of auto-firing. It is best to keep them in your carry-on luggage.
- Liquid Restrictions: According to the TSA's 3-1-1 liquid rule, you can only carry e-liquid in containers of max 3.4 ounces. Store it in a bag with other liquids so that it is easier to check during an inspection.
- Spare Parts: If you use a vaping kit with extra coils and pods make sure you store them in an accessible place.
In-Flight Guidelines for Vapers
You cannot vape in flight.
If you are caught in the act, you may even risk being thrown out or penalized. Airlines take these situations very seriously as vaping can risk setting off smoke alarms within the plane.
Handling Nicotine Cravings
For heavy vapers, it can be difficult to resist the temptation to vape during long flights. Then the nicotine craving kicks in, you instantly start feeling uncomfortable. However, there are many ways around it apart from just pushing through the feeling.
You can trick your brain into thinking you are vaping by having candies, or lozenges. If you think that will not work, you can invest in nicotine patches or gum to fight the craving.
In terms of nicotine gum, try to have one a couple of hours before the flight. Your nicotine withdrawal will be at a minimum during the flight.
Respect Fellow Passengers
Even if you get away with vaping secretly on a flight, your fellow passengers might not be forgiving about this. Many people can be uncomfortable when inhaling the smoke.
Since you are stuck in a confined space the vapor circulates within the cabin. Aside from that you also risk being reported which would ruin your trip overall.
International Travel Considerations
These vaping rules are not just restricted to flying within the USA. When traveling internationally, you can also face different rules, customs, and vaping laws.
Country-Specific Laws
If you are planning to travel from the US to any of these countries, you must know about the rules set in other countries.
|
Region |
Laws and Regulations |
|
United Kingdom |
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Japan |
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Thailand |
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Singapore |
|
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China |
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France and Germany |
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Norway |
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Customs Declarations
When entering another country, a vape may need to be declared at customs, especially if you carry more than one piece of equipment. If you find yourself in such a situation it is best to carry a receipt to ensure that people know it is for personal use and not for resale.
Potential Risks and What to Avoid
Here are some of the risks that you may have when carrying vapes on a plane.
Common Mistakes
- Packing in Checked Luggage: If it is your first time traveling with a vape, you may accidentally pack it the wrong way. Always carry your vape in your carry-on baggage.
- Forgetting Liquid Restrictions: Vape liquid follows the same rule as TSA’s 3.1.1 rule.
- Ignoring Airline-Specific Rules: Always follow guidelines from TSA and your airlines so make sure you are in the clear.
Confiscation and Fines
If you fail to follow the rules you may end up ruining your trip. Authority has the right to confiscate your device during immigration, or even boarding. The worst-case scenario can be paying a hefty fine for misconduct.
Fire Hazards
The lithium-ion batteries have a risk of causing fires. You can relate to the Samsung Note that was banned from all airlines. Similarly, ensure you use authorized batteries and separate them when packing.
Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience
Here are some tips to follow them traveling with your vape.
- Check Battery and Device Condition to ensure nothing malfunctions in flight
- Disassemble Your Device before your flight.
- Pack E-Liquids Correctly to ensure there are no spills.
- Review Airline and TSA Regulations before packing
- Use a Pack a Protective Case for Batteries
- Although not necessary for short flights, it is best to carry purchase receipts
- Opt for Disposable Vapes as they are easy to carry
- Carry a Backup device in case your primary device is confiscated, we do not recommend carrying one, to begin with, but it is still worth noting
- Nicotine Patches and gum can be a lifesaver during long flights
Reddit Threads On Carrying Vapes On a Plane
Here are a few useful Reddit threads of experiences of carrying a vape while traveling.
- Can I bring 6 Vapes on an airplane: r/airport
- Taking vape on a plane: r/electronic_cigarette
- Should I bother trying to take a vape on a flight?: r/tsa
- Can I bring a disposable vape on the flight: r/american airlines
- Taking vape on a plane: r/VapingUK
- Rules on vapes?: r/unitedairlines
Frequently asked questions
Can you bring a vape on a plane?
Yes, most airlines allow vapes to be carried on a plane. It is restricted to be only carried in your carry-on luggage.
Can I vape in the airport?
Vaping and smoking are prohibited in airport terminals. Some airports can have designated smoking rooms or areas where you can freely vape.
What happens if you put a vape in checked luggage?
If you accidentally back your vape in your checked-in luggage, you may risk the TSA breaking your lock and removing the device. You may also have to pay a fine for this. In other cases, you may even be called down to remove it yourself, if you are lucky.
How many vapes can you bring on a plane?
The maximum number of vapes you can carry on a plane is 20 disposables. However, we do not recommend you do it as you can always have the risk of being harassed for it. If you have to carry them, make sure you have the purchase receipt with you.
Can you bring vape juice on a plane?
You can only carry 100 milliliters of e-liquid on a plane. E liquids fall under the same TSA rule as other liquids.
Can you vape in a plane bathroom?
Vaping is prohibited in plane bathrooms and you may trigger smoke alarms. This could lead to heavy fines and arrests in some places.
Will the TSA take my vape?
TSA will not take your vape unless they are improperly packed. Make sure it is on the given limit and packed properly in your carry-on. If you pack them in your checked-in luggage they have the right to throw it away.
Can I fly with a disposable vape?
Yes, you can fly with disposable vapes.
Do you have to take vapes out at airport security?
Like all electronic devices, vapes also need to be removed during a security check. You have to place it in a bin with your other electronic devices to put through the X-ray screening.
Can they tell if you vape on a plane?
Modern planes have smoke detectors that can get triggered when you vape during a flight. It is also prohibited in the lavatory.
Be Careful With Moving With Vape on a Plane
In short, there is no reason why you cannot carry a vape on a plane if you follow the set rules. It is best to not carry one in countries that have a ban on vapes like Singapore or China. In other parts of the US, rules may vary on using vapes so be sure to stay informed beforehand!