Can You Take Vapes on a Plane?

If you're a vaping enthusiast who enjoys traveling, you may have questions about the possibility of bringing your vaping equipment on a flight. The answer to whether you can take vapes on a plane or not is multifaceted, given that various airlines, countries, and the nature of your vaping device come with distinct rules and regulations. In the following article, we aim to furnish you with an all-encompassing manual for traveling with your vape, covering what to include in your travel kit, what to steer clear of, and what to anticipate regarding airport security procedures. Additionally, we'll offer insights into the responsible and safe use of your vape while you're on your journey. 

Are Vapes Allowed on Planes?

In most instances, the straightforward response is negative. Many airlines enforce stringent regulations that explicitly forbid the utilization of electronic cigarettes and vaporizers during flights. These rules are primarily rooted in safety considerations. Vaping apparatuses can trigger smoke alarms within the aircraft's lavatories, potentially resulting in unwarranted panic, flight diversions, and jeopardizing the well-being of passengers and crew. Furthermore, vaping within confined spaces can be disruptive and annoying to fellow passengers, as the lingering vapor clouds and the aroma of e-liquids may cause discomfort to those nearby.

Can You Take Vapes on a Plane: What's Allowed?

Although you generally can't vape on a plane, you can bring your vaping equipment and supplies with you, but there are rules to follow. Here's what you need to know:

  1. Carry-On Only: Your carry-on luggage should include Vaping devices and e-liquids. Never pack them in your checked baggage, as the pressure changes in the cargo hold can cause leaks or damage to your equipment.

  2. Battery Safety: Ensure that the batteries for your vaping device are correctly stored to prevent short circuits. It's recommended to use plastic battery cases and avoid carrying loose batteries.

  3. Follow Airline Policies: Different airlines may have varying rules regarding the transportation of vaping equipment. Always check your airline's policies before your flight to avoid surprises.

  4. Respect Security Checks: When passing through security checkpoints, remove your vaping device and e-liquids from your bag and place them in a separate bin for screening.

  5. No Vaping in the Restrooms: Never attempt to vape in the aircraft lavatories, as it's against regulations and can result in penalties or even legal consequences.

It's important to note that some countries may have stricter regulations regarding vaping and may even prohibit importing certain vaping products. Always research and comply with the vaping laws of your destination and any transit countries you may pass through.

Airline Policies on Vapes

Airline policies are among the most important things to know before traveling with your vape. Airlines may have different rules and regulations on how you can take vapes on a plane. When traveling, you can bring your vape device, batteries, and e-liquid in your carry-on luggage or pocket. However, avoiding placing them in your checked baggage would be best. To ensure safe travel, it is crucial to take precautionary steps to prevent any accidental activation of your vape device. This may involve removing the batteries, turning off the device, or securing the fire button. When packing your e-liquid, adhere to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations regarding liquids. This entails using bottles each 100 mL (3.4 oz) or more minor and arranging them within a single 1-quart plastic bag. You mustn't exceed your batteries' watt-hour (Wh) rating or lithium content limits. Specifically, each lithium-ion battery should not surpass 100 Wh, and each lithium-metal battery should not exceed 2 grams of lithium. Before your flight, please contact your airline to inquire about any specific restrictions on the number of devices or batteries you can carry for personal use. Avoid vaping on the plane or within the airport premises during your journey. Vaping is only permitted in designated smoking areas outside the airport.

Airlines that allow vapes in carry-on luggage are:

  • American Airlines

  • Delta Airlines

  • United Airlines

  • Southwest Airlines

  • JetBlue Airways

    • Airlines that prohibit vapes in carry-on luggage are:

  • Air China

  • Air India

  • EgyptAir

  • Royal Jordanian Airlines

  • Saudia Airlines

    • The possible consequences of violating the airline policies on vapes may include:

  • Fines

  • Confiscation of your vape gear

  • Denial of boarding

  • Removal from the flight

  • Legal action

    • Destination Regulations on Vapes

    Knowing the destination regulations before traveling with your vape is also essential. Countries or regions may have other laws and rules on vapes or e-liquids, such as banning, restricting, or taxing them. You should check the local laws of your destination country before you travel, as they may change frequently and without notice. Here are some general guidelines that apply to some popular destinations:

  • The United States: Vaping is legal in most states, but some states or cities may have stricter regulations, such as banning flavored e-liquids, raising the legal age to 21, or prohibiting vaping in public places. You should check the specific laws of the state or city you visit before traveling.

  • Canada: Vaping is legal in Canada, but there are some restrictions, such as limiting the nicotine strength to 20 mg/mL, banning certain flavors, requiring plain packaging and health warnings, and prohibiting vaping in indoor public places. Before traveling, you should check the specific laws of the province or territory you visit.

  • The United Kingdom: Vaping is legal in the UK, but there are some regulations, such as limiting the e-liquid bottle size to 10 mL, limiting the nicotine strength to 20 mg/mL, limiting the tank capacity to 2 mL, requiring child-resistant packaging and health warnings, and prohibiting vaping in some public places. You should check the specific laws of the country or the region you visit before traveling.

  • The European Union: Vaping is legal in a couple of EU countries, but there are some restrictions on new products and imposing a tax on e-liquids. You should check the specific laws of the country you visit before traveling.

  • Australia: Vaping is legal in Australia, but there are some restrictions, such as requiring a prescription for nicotine e-liquids, banning online sales and imports of nicotine e-liquids, banning certain flavors, and prohibiting vaping in some public places. Before traveling, you should check the specific laws of the state or territory you visit.

  • New Zealand: Vaping is legal in New Zealand, but there are some regulations, such as requiring a notification system for new products, plain packaging, health warnings, banning certain flavors, and prohibiting vaping in some public places. You should check the specific laws of the region you visit before traveling.

  • China: Vaping is legal in China, but there are some restrictions, such as banning online sales and advertising of e-cigarettes, requiring a license for manufacturing and selling e-cigarettes, and prohibiting vaping in some public places. Before traveling, you should check the specific laws of the city or province you visit.

  • India: Vaping is illegal in India, as the government has banned the production, import, export, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes. You may face fines or imprisonment if caught with e-cigarettes in India.

    • The possible consequences of violating the destination regulations on vapes may include:

  • Fines

  • Confiscation of your vape gear

  • Imprisonment

  • Deportation

  • Legal action

    • Types of Vapes and Their Risks

    The third crucial factor to consider before embarking on air travel with your vape is understanding the various types of vapes and their associated risks. Every kind of vape presents unique challenges regarding flying, ranging from potential leakage to the more concerning risks of explosions or malfunctions. Therefore, selecting the right kind of vape that aligns with air travel regulations and taking appropriate precautions throughout your journey becomes imperative. Now, addressing the critical question - can you take vapes on a plane - it's essential to delve into the specifics of each type to ensure a smooth and trouble-free travel experience. First of all, don't forget that weed is legalized in several states. So, before your trip, look at the legislation of the state or county you plan to visit.

  • Cartridge vaporizers: devices like GV iMini are compatible with 510 cartridges. It is easy to use and convenient to carry. However, the profiled cartridges may leak due to air pressure or temperature changes while flying. It may also explode if it is damaged or overheated. You should remove the cartridge from the battery before washing it and store it separately in a plastic bag. Avoid using cheap or counterfeit cartridges.

  • Electric Dab Rigs: like Lookah Unicorn, this device uses a glass globe filled with water for filtration and heating elements for wax and concentrates. It has a variable voltage battery that allows you to adjust the temperature and intensity of your vaping experience. Before transportation, you should empty the glass globe and store it separately from the battery in a plastic bag. 

  • Dry Herb Vaporizers:  devices like GV Lit use a heating chamber that can be loaded with dry herbs. It has a simple navigation. Such kinds of devices feature no problem during transportation. 

    • Tips for Traveling with Vapes

    Before embarking on your journey with a vape, you must acquaint yourself with essential tips for a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable travel experience. Here are some practical guidelines for traveling with vapes:

    1. Properly Pack Your Vape Gear: Organize your vape essentials methodically. Store your vape device, batteries, and e-liquid in a dedicated bag or case that's easily accessible and can be inspected without hassle. Additionally, consider carrying spare parts like coils, pods, or cartridges if replacements are necessary during your trip. When prompted, ensure your vape gear is clearly labeled and declare it to airport security.

    2. Battery Precautions: Before flying, removing the batteries from your vape device is imperative. Safeguard them in a separate plastic bag or case and cover the battery terminals with tape or plastic caps to prevent potential short circuits or sparks. Avoid carrying loose or damaged batteries, which can pose a fire hazard.

    3. Empty Your Device Tanks or Pods: Before your flight, empty the tanks or pods of your vape device. Store them in a separate plastic bag or case, and wipe away any excess e-liquid from the device or tank. This step helps prevent leakage from air pressure or temperature fluctuations while in transit.

    4. Turn Off or Lock Your Device: Take the precaution of turning off or locking your vape device before you begin your journey. Store it in a separate plastic bag or case to avoid accidental activation during your travels, which could lead to overheating or a potential fire hazard.

    5. Familiarize Yourself with Policies and Regulations: Research and familiarize yourself with the policies and regulations of your airline and destination country before you set off. Be sure also to review the local laws of the specific state, province, city, or region you'll be visiting. This proactive approach will help you avoid any complications or penalties related to traveling with your vape.

    6. Select the Right Vape for Your Trip: Tailor your vape choice to match your preferences, needs, and budget. It's essential to consider the availability and compatibility of e-liquids, pods, cartridges, coils, batteries, and chargers in your destination country to ensure a hassle-free vaping experience while traveling.