When waiting in a crowded Heathrow security line in London, I witnessed a common nightmare for vapers, although perhaps a bit embarrassing for the guy involved. A young man had his carry-on bag opened by a security agent in front of him. Why? He had a vape kit loosely packed with his other liquids. The result? The agent took away his vape kit and he had a rather public and humiliated learning experience.
Since traveling internationally with my vape gear has taken me to over a dozen different countries, including some of the most restrictive airports in Southeast Asia to the less restrictive airports in Europe, I've learned the right way to travel with my vape gear is to know the rules and how to comply with them, and to learn from others who have experienced some of the same things I have.
This article will explain the rules regarding carrying a vape on an airplane, both internationally and domestically, along with some of the practical knowledge and experience gained while traveling with my vape gear.
The Golden Rule: Carry-On Only. Always.
This is the most important rule, and it is non-negotiable. As stated earlier, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) forbids checking of e-cigarettes and spare batteries in checked baggage.
Why? The Lithium-Ion Battery Risk.
The reason is because those small batteries that power your vape devices are a fire hazard if they become damaged, short circuited, or subjected to extreme pressure changes during transit. A fire in the cabin area can be quickly extinguished, but a fire in the cargo hold is a major disaster scenario. There have been hundreds of reported incidents of lithium batteries causing fires on airplanes according to the FAA. This is why airlines enforce this rule worldwide.
I once made the rookie mistake of accidentally putting a spare battery in a checked bag. Luckily, it did not cause a problem. However, I was left feeling cold fear when I found it after we landed. That experience was a harsh reminder of the fact that these rules are not just bureaucratic red tape, but are designed to protect everyone on board.
The Art of the "Liquid Bag" and Device Prep
Getting your vape gear on the airplane is one thing; getting it through security safely is another.
1. The 3-1-1 Liquids Rule Applies To E-Juice.
One of the most common mistakes travelers make is thinking that their e-liquids don't count towards the 3-1-1 liquids rule. In reality, the e-liquid bottles must meet the same TSA (and international equivalents) 3-1-1 rule.
- All containers containing e-liquids must contain 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
- All containers containing e-liquids must fit in a single, clear, quart-sized, re-sealable plastic bag.
- One bag per traveler.
That 120 ml bottle of your favorite e-juice? Unfortunately, it doesn't matter whether it's half full or not; it can't be brought in your carry-on, regardless of its size. So, transfer whatever e-juice you want to take in the airplane into 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less bottles. I put my e-liquids in a leak proof silicone bag inside my clear liquids bag to prevent any messes from pressure changes at checkpoint.
2. Prepping Your Device For Airport Security:
- Empty Your Tank: This is a pro tip I learned from hard earned experience. Airplane cabins create extreme pressure changes that will cause your tank to leak. I've had a good portion of my e-juice spill inside my pod device. Make sure you vape your tank as low as possible or empty it before flying.
- Unhook Your Mod/Battery: Even though it is not always necessary, I always detach my tank from my mod or remove the pod from the battery. It helps show the security agents that you are aware of your device and are willing to show transparency.
- Store Your Vape Gear: Store your vape gear (device, pods, etc.) and spare batteries in protective cases in your carry-on for easy access. Depending on the airport, you may be asked to separate your vape gear from the rest of your belongings and place it in a separate bin, such as your laptop.
Using Your Vape: The Absolute No-Fly Zone
Let's be honest, you cannot vape on an airplane. Not ever!
Airplane smoke detectors are super-sensitive and cannot differentiate between the vapor produced by vaping and actual smoke. Setting off the smoke detector in the airplane bathroom is not something you can just shrug off as a minor incident. It's a federal crime that could potentially cost you thousands of dollars in fines, ban you from the airline, and have law enforcement waiting for you when you land.
On a long haul flight from Doha to Bangkok, I saw a teenager try to vape in the airplane bathroom. The alarm went off like crazy! The flight attendants came running in seconds, and the teenager was escorted off the plane by authorities at our destination. Anytime you feel the urge to vape on an airplane, remember that the humiliation and penalties greatly outweigh the nicotine craving.
Traveling Internationally: Research Is Essential
While the general rules for transporting vape gear are mostly the same, the legality of vaping varies widely depending on the country you are visiting.
- Research Your Destination (and Layovers!): Laws vary wildly.
Vape-Friendly: The UK, USA, Canada, and New Zealand have established regulations.
Restricted or Banned: Many countries have outright bans or severe restrictions. This includes popular destinations like Thailand (where it is illegal, despite what you might see), India, Singapore (with massive fines), Japan (nicotine e-liquid is a controlled medical product), and Australia (requires a prescription for nicotine).
- Consequences are Real: Penalties for bringing vaping equipment into a country where it's banned can range from confiscation and a fine to arrest and imprisonment. Do not rely on anecdotal evidence from forums; check the official government website of your destination country.
My Strategy: I create a simple travel cheat sheet for myself:
- Is Vaping Allowed In The Country?: Yes / No.
- Is Nicotine Allowed In The Country?: Yes / No / Requires Prescription.
- Can I Purchase Vape Products In The Country?: If so, I usually travel with my own vape products to avoid potential problems with customs.
Pro-Packer Checklist: A Traveling Vaper's Essentials
Before you close your carry-on, make sure you check off the following items:
- Vape Device / Pod System (Carry-On).
- E-Liquids in 100ml Bottles (In Liquids Bag).
- Empty Your Tank / Pod Before Flying.
- Spare Coils / Pods.
- Spare Batteries (In Protective Case).
- USB Charging Cord (If Needed).
- Knowledge of Destination Country's Vape Laws.
Traveling with vape gear requires a bit more effort than traveling with other types of gear, but with some knowledge of the rules, you'll be able to travel easily and stress free.