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Can You Take Vapes in Hand Luggage? Travelling with Vapes

Can You Take Vapes in Hand Luggage? Travelling with Vapes

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    Can You Take Vapes in Hand Luggage?

    The short answer is yes, you can bring your vapes in the carry-on (hand) luggage. However, there are strict rules to follow when you want to travel with your vapes on a plane. Vapes need to be carried in your hand luggage, not your hold luggage. Make sure they are switched off and are packed to prevent any activation. Using and recharging your vapes while flying is strictly prohibited. 

    • Carry-On Only: You must pack your vape in your hand luggage. Airlines and airport security do not allow vapes or e-cigarettes in checked baggage. This rule is in place because vapes have lithium batteries, which can pose a fire risk in the cargo hold.
    • Turn Off the Device: Before you board the plane, make sure your vape is turned off. Many airlines also ask you to remove the battery or secure the device so it doesn’t switch on by accident. This is for safety and to avoid setting off alarms or causing any trouble mid-flight.
    • Liquid Limitations: E-liquids count as liquids under airport rules. This means:
      • Each bottle must be no more than 100ml

      • All bottles must fit in a clear, resealable plastic bag (usually 1-litre capacity)

      • You can only carry one bag of liquids per person

    • Spare Batteries: Spare vape batteries must also go in your hand luggage. You should store them in a proper battery case to prevent short-circuits. Never put loose batteries in your pocket or bag, as this is a safety risk.
    • Do not use or Charge Your Vape: Using or charging your vape on the plane is not allowed. Even if you're tempted, remember this could lead to fines or removal from the flight. Always follow airline rules and wait until you’re off the plane.

    Flying with Vapes Guide

    Can I vape in an airport?

    Each airport has its own policies on vaping, but you generally cannot vape freely inside the airport, just like cigarettes. Some airports have designated smoking or vaping areas. These are usually outside the terminal. Vaping inside an airport could lead to a warning or fine. Always check signs or ask staff where you can vape.

    Normally, there will be no smoking areas after the security checks inside the airports. Make sure you vape outside the airport and pack everything before going through security.

    Can I bring vape juice on a plane?

    Yes, you can bring vape juice on a plane, but it must follow the 100ml rule for liquids. E Liquid/ Vape Juice/ Vape Liquid is treated as a normal liquid in the UK airports. Keep it in your clear plastic liquids bag for security checks.

    • Each bottle must be no more than 100ml
    • All bottles must fit in a clear, resealable plastic bag (usually 1-litre capacity)
    • You can only carry one bag of liquids per person

    For additional e liquid, you can pack them into checked luggage with well-sealed packaging or clear plastic bags for safety and to prevent leaking issues. 

    Can I vape on a plane?

    No, vaping on a plane is strictly banned. This includes both traditional e-cigarettes and newer devices. If you get caught, you could face penalties, including a ban from the airline. This applies to flying on any airline in any country since the smoke from vaping (just like cigarettes) can cause false alarms and lead to unwanted delays, etc. 

    You cannot vape in the toilet since there are smoke detectors which can detect any kind of smoke from vapes and cigarettes. 

    Can I charge my vape on a plane?

    Charging your vape on a plane is not allowed. This is a safety rule to prevent overheating or fire. Always charge your device before you travel. 

    Although charging doesn't mean vaping, you can fall under suspicion when taking it out of your hand luggage during the flight. This can cause misunderstandings or a waste of time, which you certainly want to avoid when flying. 

    How do you take vapes on a plane?

    To carry your vapes on a plane, you need to pay attention to these rules:

    • Pack your vape device in your hand luggage
    • Make sure it’s turned off and safe, not in sleeping mode
    • Keep vape juice under 100ml and in a liquids bag
    • Store spare batteries properly in a case

    Different devices must be packed in different spots:

     Device Hand Luggage Check-in Luggage Note
    Disposable Vape Y N Need to be switched off
    E Liquid Y Y Under 100ml bottles in hand luggage
    Batteries Y N Spare batteries need to be wrapped individually
    Mods Y Y (But batteries need to be removed)

    Need to be switched off

    Batteries need to be removed.

    Vape Pens/ Vape Kits/ Pod Kit Y N Need to be switched off

     

    Are vapes allowed in hand luggage in the UK?

    Yes, UK airports allow vapes in hand luggage. However, you still need to follow safety rules. Always check your airline's policy before you fly.

    Can I fly with a disposable vape?

    Yes, disposable vapes are allowed in your carry-on. Treat them like any other vape device. Do not use them on the plane.

    How many disposable vapes can I take on a plane?

    There is no fixed limit, but it’s best to take only what you need for personal use. Carrying a large amount might raise questions with security or customs. For a clearer answer, check the airline's policy regarding travelling with vapes and batteries (since disposable vapes have a lithium battery inside). 

    Any vape devices with lithium batteries and spare batteries cannot be packed in the checked-in luggage to avoid safety hazards. Spare batteries need to be wrapped carefully and stored in specific packaging to prevent sparking. Here are some guidelines from different airlines on bringing lithium batteries onto the planes. 

    • British Airways allows up to 15 lithium-ion/metal batteries to be transported in your hand luggage.
      Ryan Air allows up to 20 disposable vapes in your carry-on luggage.
    • easyJet doesn’t specify a limit, so it may be worth calling them if you would like to take a lot with you.
    • Virgin Atlantic allows you to carry disposable vapes in your carry-on luggage only, but doesn't set a limit.

    Can You Use Nicotine Pouches on a plane?

    Yes, nicotine pouches can be used on a plane. They don’t create vapour or smell, so they’re a discreet option. Still, be respectful of others around you.

    Can I use my vape at the Airports?

    Only in designated areas. Most UK airports have outdoor smoking zones where you can vape. Using a vape indoors is usually against the rules.

    How much e liquid can I take on a plane?

    You can take up to 100ml per bottle, and all bottles must fit inside your 1-litre plastic bag. Don’t forget, this bag includes all your liquids, not just vape juice.

    Using Vapes at UK Airports

    When travelling through UK airports, it’s important to know the rules about vaping. Most UK airports, including Gatwick, do not allow vaping inside terminals. Instead, vaping is only permitted in designated outdoor smoking areas. These areas are usually marked clearly, so look out for signs or ask airport staff if you’re unsure where you can vape.

    • Gatwick Airport: Vaping is not allowed inside the North or South Terminals. Use the designated smoking areas outside.
    • Heathrow Airport: Vaping is prohibited inside terminal buildings, but there are specific outdoor areas for smoking and vaping.
    • Stansted Airport: Vaping has been banned indoors since August 2014.
    • Exeter Airport: Vaping is not permitted inside the terminal.
    • Belfast International Airport: Vaping is only allowed in the outdoor smoking zones.
    • George Best Belfast City Airport: Vaping is banned inside the terminal; outdoor smoking areas are available.
    • Birmingham Airport: Vaping is treated the same as smoking and is only allowed in outdoor smoking zones.
    • Bristol Airport: Vaping is permitted only in designated smoking spots.
    • Cardiff Airport: Vaping is forbidden inside terminals and only allowed in outdoor smoking areas near Gate 2.
    • East Midlands Airport: Indoor vaping has been prohibited since August 2014.
    • Humberside Airport: Vaping isn’t allowed inside the terminal or at its entrance but is permitted in the smoking area.
    • Liverpool John Lennon Airport: Vaping is allowed exclusively in outdoor smoking areas.
    • London City Airport: Vaping is banned inside the terminal and beyond security checkpoints.
    • Luton Airport: Vaping is only permitted in the outdoor smoking area at the front of the terminal.
    • Manchester Airport: Vaping is not allowed inside the terminal building.
    • Newcastle Airport: Vaping is permitted only in outdoor smoking shelters at the front and two designated areas after security.
    • Southampton Airport: Vaping is prohibited inside the terminal and while moving to planes; only allowed outside before security.

    For other airports, check the airport policy carefully.

    Bringing vapes on different UK airlines

    Different airlines may have different rules on vapes and vaping products. Here are some examples of UK Airlines.

    Ryanair

    Passengers can bring e-cigarettes in their carry-on luggage only. Vapes are not allowed in checked baggage. Vape juice counts as liquids and must be packed in a clear plastic bag for security. Use of e-cigarettes on board is strictly banned.

    Easy Jet

    All vaping devices must be carried in the cabin, switched off, and not charged during the flight. Carrying vapes in checked luggage is forbidden. Passengers can bring up to two spare batteries in carry-on bags, which should be individually wrapped to avoid short circuits. Empty vape tanks before flying to prevent leaks.

    British Airways

    Smoking and vaping are banned on board and in many airports. Vapes must be packed in hand luggage and secured to prevent accidental activation. Vape liquids must comply with the 100ml liquid limit for hand luggage.

    Jet2

    Passengers may carry up to 15 Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs), including vapes, in hand luggage. Charging or using vaping devices on board is not allowed. Charge your vape fully before the flight.

    TUI

    Vaping devices and spare batteries can only be carried in hand luggage. Using or charging vapes on the plane is prohibited.

    Can I bring my vape to another country?

    This depends on the country you’re visiting. Some countries ban vapes completely. Always check the local laws before you travel. Bringing a vape into a banned country can lead to fines or confiscation.

    Before travelling, always check with the airlines and the country's laws to make sure you bringing the legal amount of vape and e liquid. Countries also have different rules on nicotine strength and bottle sizes, so make sure you comply with the rules and avoid any fines.

    For example, the UK and a lot of European countries have TPD regulations which allow a maximum of 20mg of nicotine strength in e liquid and vapes. The biggest size for nicotine-containing bottles is 10ml, including nic salts, nic shots and any type of e liquid with nicotine. 

    Meanwhile, some countries have limited rules on buying and selling vapes. For example, in Turkey, the rules state that you can use vapes for personal use, but the sale and import of vaping products are prohibited. 

    In many other countries like Singapore, Thailand, India, Cambodia, etc., vapes are strictly banned. You cannot buy, sell, import or use vapes within their borders. 

    Countries that allow Vaping

    Albania, Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, China, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Dubai (UAE), El Salvador, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Honduras, Hungary, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, UK, Ukraine.

    Countries that ban the sale of Vapes and Vaping Products

    Argentina, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, North Korea, Ethiopia, Gambia, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Laos, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Nicaragua, Norway, Oman, Panama, Qatar, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Syria, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Vietnam.

    Countries that restricted Vaping

    Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Slovenia, South Africa, USA.

    Where can you buy vapes and vape juice abroad?

    In many countries, you can buy vapes at local vape shops, convenience stores or online. However, always check the laws before you try to buy or import vape products.

    It is important to know that not all countries allow the sale of vape juice. Some places ban the sale of nicotine-containing cartridges, while others only permit nicotine-free products or limit how much nicotine can be in the refills. For example, in countries like Vietnam, e-cigarettes are completely banned, and if you’re caught with them, you could face great penalties.

    Always check the laws and buy from a reliable and trustworthy source to avoid poor products, which can lead to severe health impacts.

    Tips for Travelling with Vapes

    Travelling with your vape doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation, you can avoid common problems and enjoy a smooth journey. Here are some handy tips to help you travel safely and easily with your vaping gear.

    • Carry only what you need
    • Keep devices and batteries in safe cases
    • Follow airport and airline rules
    • Check local laws before you travel
    • Never try to hide or sneak your vape through security
    • Stock Up on Extra Coils
    • Use Smaller, Empty E-Liquid Bottles
    • Empty Your Vape Tank Before Flying
    • Keep Batteries Safe in a Battery Case
    • Charge Your Batteries Before You Travel

    Vaping Etiquette in the world

    What’s fine in one place might not be okay in another. Always be respectful of local rules and customs. Vaping near children, indoors or in crowds may be frowned upon, even if it’s allowed. 

    Different countries have different cultures and attitudes towards smoking and vaping, so be mindful and be aware of your surroundings. Vaping is legal doesn't mean it is appropriate around school, children, temples, etc. Locals may not be familiar with vaping so you should respect the difference. 

    Penalties for Vaping In-Flights

    Using an e-cigarette or vaping on a plane can lead to serious consequences, including fines and arrest. Fines for vaping or smoking onboard typically range from $2 to $4,000, though it is not usually a criminal offence by itself. However, if you tamper with smoke detectors or ignore crew instructions, penalties can become much more severe.

    In some cases, flights may be diverted due to vaping incidents, which can lead to detention or arrest. Additionally, certain countries may detain or arrest travellers caught vaping upon arrival. Always follow airline rules to avoid fines, flight bans, or legal trouble.

    If you vape on a flight, you could face:

    • Heavy fines
    • Flight bans
    • Arrest, in extreme cases
    • Confiscation of your device

    Conclusions

    So, if you’re wondering, Can You Take Vapes in Hand Luggage? — The answer is yes, as long as you follow the rules outlined here. Travelling with a vape doesn’t have to be complicated. By knowing the rules about carrying your device, batteries, and e-liquids, and respecting local laws and airport policies, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey. Always follow airline instructions, and be mindful of vaping etiquette around the world.

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    Nguyen Khanh

    Nguyen Khanh

    SEO & Content Manager

    Nguyen is a vaping expert and dedicated content creator with a passion for supporting the vaping community.