Flying with a vape involves multiple layers of regulation — not just about the device. The reason lies in a complex trifecta of concerns: different airline policies, varying destination laws, and ever-changing airport-wide safety rules. Modern travelers have a lot to think about before they actually fly.
But don’t you think this complexity is justified? Without such policies, you risk the safety of all travelers around you.
Any trouble could result in fines, confiscation, or even make you liable for violating laws at your destination. So, what to do? How to avoid such issues?
The answer is this blog. It answers your most critical questions: can you bring a vape on a plane & are vapes allowed on planes (for all of them), clearly. Read along for a stress-free journey.
Table Of Contents:
Can You Bring Your Vape On A Plane?
What Type Of Vape Can You Bring On A Plane?
Can You Bring A Vape on a Plane? Here’s What Top Airlines Say
Final Thoughts On "Can You Fly With Vapes"
FAQs
Can You Bring Your Vape On A Plane?
The answer is yes. However, you should do this with extreme caution. Here's what you need to ensure:
Pack all your vapes in carry-on luggage. Packing them in checked luggage is strictly prohibited, as lithium-ion batteries pose a fire hazard. Even spare batteries should be kept in the carry-on luggage.
Power of the device you are carrying, such that it does not accidentally turn on. For devices having removable batteries, store each part separately in a protective case.
Empty your vape's pod, as a change in air pressure can cause leakage. You should, in fact, keep the e-liquid container in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag. The e-liquid container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller in volume.
Research the vaping laws of your destination, as they vary. Several destinations that restrict you from carrying vapes include India, Mexico, Singapore & Thailand.
Remove your vape and its e-liquids before carrying them. Place them in a separate bin for X-ray inspection during airport screening.
Do not use or charge a vape on the aircraft under any circumstances. Doing so will trigger smoke alarms, leading to fines & consequences.
What Type Of Vape Can You Bring On A Plane?
Vaping is a collective term that encompasses various types. To know which one you can carry along, refer to the table below. It clearly outlines different vapes along with the conditions you need to follow with each type.
Vape Type | Can You Carry Them? | Carry-on Luggage Rules | Check-in Luggage Rules |
Yes | Turn them off before carrying. | You cannot carry them in checked bags, as these vapes operate with lithium-ion batteries. These batteries may pose a fire risk [1]. | |
Pod Systems (Both refillable & pre-filled ones) | Yes |
| No carrying in checked bags. These devices have integrated batteries and require specialized containment procedures. |
Vape Pens | Yes |
| Carrying them in checked bags is prohibited. These devices’ non-removable batteries present a fire hazard. |
Box/Vape Mods (Detachable & Rechargeable ones) | Yes | Remove the external battery and store it separately. | No type of vape mod is ever allowed in checked baggage. |
E-liquids / Vape Juice | Yes | Follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule. | You can keep bottles over 3.4 oz (100 ml) in checked baggage. Airport security will manually inspect this bag in case X-ray scanners detect something unusual. |
Can You Bring A Vape on a Plane? Here’s What Top Airlines Say
Traveling with a vape in the U.S. is guided by TSA. What if you are traveling with a vape abroad, outside the U.S.? In that case, you need to know how airlines & their aviation bodies perceive this act. For easy understanding, we have listed several well-known airlines, along with their requirements for travelers with vapes, in a tabular format. Have a look.
Airline | Aviation Body | What Do They Require? | Use/Charging Onboard |
American Airlines | Bring vapes in carry-on only. | Not allowed | |
British Airways | CAA (U.K.) | Bring vapes in a smaller handbag. | Not allowed |
China Southern Airlines | CAAC (China) | Vapes are not allowed in checked baggage. | Not allowed |
Delta Air Lines | TSA / FAA (U.S.) | Bring vapes as carry-on items only | Not allowed |
Emirates | GCAA (UAE) | Vapes must be individually protected to prevent accidental activation | Not allowed |
Qatar Airways | QCAA (Qatar) | Carry vapes in your hand baggage | Not allowed |
Ryanair | EASA / CAA (EU / Ireland) | E-cigarettes can be brought on the plane | Not allowed |
Note: The “What They Require” column gives a gist of what travelers with vapes should follow. You should check your individual aviation body’s website for a comprehensive understanding of vape laws.
Final Thoughts On "Can You Fly With Vapes"
There it is! A detailed answer to “Can you bring a vape on a plane?”. Flying with it does not have to be complicated if you abide by all the guidelines & conditions. Check whether your airline allows you to carry it, and what laws are enforced in the place you are heading to. Most importantly, refer to the guidelines put on electronic cigarettes & devices by TSA.
Realize that it is not only you who is boarding a flight, and there are many more travelers. A minor problem can escalate to a big issue, and you'll be penalized or detained for such an act. Refer to the above-mentioned points & check what type of device you are carrying to avoid guideline mismatches.
FAQs
1. How many vapes can you bring on a plane?
There is no specific universal limit. Always check your specific airline's policy on the number of devices as well as batteries allowed. You should pack a reasonable quantity to avoid extra scrutiny.
2. Can you take a vape on an airplane?
Yes. Always abide by restrictions placed by IATA & TSA. Additionally, check the above conditions depending on the type of vape you are carrying. To know more about different types, you can refer to our blog titled: Different Types Of Vapes: Which One Is Right For You?
3. Is vaping allowed on a plane?
No. In the event that any passenger is caught doing the same, they may be subjected to severe fines, arrest, or even potential prosecution.
4. Can you vape at an airport?
No. It is illegal to do this. However, you can vape in a designated smoking lounge if you want to.
5. What are the airline rules for carrying lithium batteries on a plane?
Lithium-Ion Batteries:
Under 100 Wh: Allowed ✅
101–160 Wh: Airline approval required ⚠️
Over 160 Wh: Prohibited ❌
Lithium Metal Batteries:
Under 2 grams: Allowed ✅
Important Rule:
Keep all spare batteries in carry-on luggage.