The History of Vaping & Air Travel
Initially, the commercial airlines didn't understand what vaping was. That lack of understanding meant that policies varied from one operator to the next. Slowly but surely, the airlines have moved towards a common approach.
Almost all airlines had banned in-flight ecig use by 2015, some even prohibited carrying electronic cigarettes and e-liquid onto flights. They had experienced two major issues issue with vapes. Firstly, vaping looked like smoking and caused other passengers to get upset. Secondly, e-cigarettes were linked to in-flight fires. Some vapers packed their equipment into their check-in hold luggage. At altitude, batteries can began venting and trigger fire suppression systems, causing the flights to make unscheduled landings.
Problems also arose with people storing their batteries incorrectly in their hand luggage, charging their devices through the seat USB socket, and having juice leak onto the batteries and devices. Finally, there were vapers who believed they could con the smoke alarms in the toilets because vapour isn't smoke but they couldn't!
Travelers who vape should understand the regulations before heading to the airport to avoid delays, confiscations, or potential fines.
Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage
One of the most important rules regarding vape devices is where they must be stored during air travel. Most airlines and aviation safety authorities require that electronic cigarettes, vape pens, and disposable vapes be packed in carry-on luggage only. Vapes are typically not permitted to be stored in checked baggage.
The reason for this restriction is the presence of lithium-ion batteries, which can pose a fire risk if damaged. Keeping devices in the passenger cabin allows the crew to respond quickly if a battery malfunction occurs.
Passengers are also advised to turn off their devices, avoid loose batteries, and use protective cases when possible.
Restrictions on Using Vapes During Flights
Using vape devices on commercial flights is generally prohibited. Most airlines treat vaping the same as smoking traditional cigarettes. This means passengers cannot vape in their seats, in the aisle, or in the aircraft lavatory.
Airplane smoke detectors are highly sensitive and can detect vapour. Attempting to vape onboard can trigger alarms and lead to serious consequences, including warnings, fines, or being met by authorities upon landing.
Carrying E-Liquids Through Security
E-liquids are subject to the same rules as any other liquids when travellers pass through airport security. Vapers must, therefore, adhere to the usual procedures for carry-on baggage. In many countries, this means:
- Individual containers must usually be 100 ml or less.
- New Scanner Exception (2L Limit): Some UK airports including Heathrow, Gatwick Birmingham, and Edinburgh have implemented new scanners that allow liquids up to 2 litres to remain in hand luggage.
- All liquids not excepted by the new rules must fit inside a single transparent resealable bag.
- The bag must be presented during security screening.
Travelers carrying larger bottles may need to place them in checked baggage instead, though the vape device itself must still remain in carry-on luggage.
Disposable Vapes and Pod Systems
Disposable vape devices and pod systems are generally treated the same as rechargeable vape devices when flying. They must also remain in carry-on luggage because they contain internal batteries.
However, some airlines or countries may place limits on the number of devices a passenger can carry, especially when entering jurisdictions with stricter vape regulations.
Vape pods filled with e-liquid are treated as liquids by airport security and so you be presented in the clear plastic bag containing a traveller's other liquids.
International Travel Considerations
Airport security isn't the only potential issue for travelling vapers. Vape regulations can vary significantly from country to country. While many places allow travelers to carry personal vaping devices, others restrict or ban them entirely.
For example, some countries have strict controls on the sale, importation, or possession of vaping products. Travelers entering these destinations may face confiscation of devices or legal penalties if they bring vapes into the country.
Checking local laws before traveling internationally is therefore essential.