Key Takeaways
You can take vapes on a plane, but always pack your vaping device and spare batteries in your carry-on luggage, as devices with lithium-ion batteries are not allowed in checked baggage. Ensure the device is powered off to prevent accidental activation. Keep all e-liquids in containers under 100ml and place them in a clear, resealable plastic bag for easy inspection at security checkpoints. Always check local rules for confirmation before you fly.
Carry-on vs Checked
Vape device → carry-on luggage only, switched off
Spare batteries → carry-on only, protected
E-liquid → follow airport liquid rules (container limits vary; check airport)
Using/charging onboard → Don't vape or charge your device. All airlines prohibit vaping on board.
If you’ve planned a trip abroad, you may have some questions about how you should travel with your vape, where and when you can use it or if you can use it at all. With changing regulations and safety concerns it can be challenging to navigate the rules and restrictions surrounding vaping and air travel.
In this article, we'll cover all the dos and don’ts of travelling with your vape, from where to use it and how to safely pack your gear so you can have a stress-free flight.
1. Can you bring a vape on a plane?
You can take a vape on a plane, but it must be fully turned off and packed in your carry-on luggage, not your checked baggage.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidelines, all vape devices are classed as a PED or Portable Electronic Device and along with any of your other electronic devices such as laptops or power banks, must be stored in your carry-on luggage.
Rules can vary slightly by airline, so it’s worth checking your carrier’s battery policy before you fly.
2. How do I pack my vape for air travel?
Make sure your vape device is completely switched off, not just in sleep mode.
Any spare batteries must be individually wrapped to prevent a short-circuit and packed in carry-on luggage only. Find out more about vape battery safety when travelling.
E-Liquids can be stored in your hand luggage in clear plastic bags in bottles not exceeding 100ml.
We recommend that you empty your tanks and store them in a clear plastic bag in your hand luggage as the pressurisation in the cargo area may cause your tank to leak or crack.
Learn how to prevent leaking tanks in transit.
3. Can I vape in an airport?
No you can't, you should assume the same rules that apply to smoking also apply to vaping and you should find the designated smoking areas outside of the terminals. These should be signposted or you can check the airport's smoking policy online.
Airports in the UK do not offer any indoor designated smoking areas after you pass the security check-in, so it's a good idea to make sure everything is packed up and ready before you go through. Once you're insude the airport you can switch to oral nicotine products like nicotine pouches - more on that below!
4. Can I bring e-liquid on a plane?
Most airports require liquids in containers of 100ml or less, and rules can vary by airport. Some UK airports now allow higher limits, but you should always check your departure airport’s policy first.
You can pack any additional e-liquid in your checked-in luggage and it's a good idea to seal these in clear plastic bags as well as the cargo hold is pressurised, which can cause sealed bottles of liquid to leak, and you probably don’t want your clothes smelling of blueberries when you land.
5. Can I vape on a plane?
No, you absolutely cannot. Vaping on a plane falls under the same laws as smoking and you could face severe penalties and fines if you do so. Whilst rules may differ regarding how to transport your vape and where you can use it, depending on the airport and airline, using a vape on an aeroplane is strictly prohibited worldwide, this includes disposables. It is also not a good idea to risk vaping in the toilet, as airlines have installed detectors that will pick up not only cigarette smoke but e-cigarette vapour as well.
6. What are the best vapes for travel?
Prefilled pod vapes are the best vapes to take with you on your travels. Here's why:
Simple to use design.
Minimal to no maintenance.
Leak free pods.
No liquid bottle concerns.
Compact and long lasting .
7. Can you use nicotine pouches on a plane?
Nicotine pouches are the perfect choice once you're checked in and on-board your flight. Flying can be a stressful experience on its own and having to cope with nicotine withdrawal at the same time is not fun at all.
This is where you can take advantage of using nicotine pouches on your flight. These game changers can be discreetly placed between your top lip and gum for a slow release of flavoured nicotine. Each tub contains 20 pouches - with each pouch lasting up to 30 minutes - allowing you to relax in comfort from take off to landing.
Nicotine pouches are available in a variety of strengths and a huge selection of flavours, from fresh fruits to frosty mints and sweet desserts and candies. There is no need to risk vaping on a plane or even thinking about it when you can simply tuck a pouch under your lip and continue your journey with ease.
8. Can I charge my vape on a plane?
The short answer is no, as this could constitute or be misconstrued as use, and one could argue what the point of that would be as you can’t use your vape on the aeroplane anyway.
Even though a vape is classed as an electronic device, you may risk falling under suspicion of using the device if you take it out of your hand luggage during the flight. The best thing to do is to make sure that you have fully charged your device before you leave and that you don’t run it down in the run-up to your boarding the plane.
You can check the airport's online policy to find out if and where you can charge your vape device pre-flight. If you are able to do so, great, you’ll be ready to go once you land and exit the airport - just make sure that you have properly switched the device off and returned it to your hand luggage before boarding.
9. How many vapes can I bring on a plane?
If you’re wondering how many vapes you can take on a plane, it depends on the airline’s lithium battery rules, as a result of the lithium battery within the device. Any device containing a lithium battery cannot be stored in checked-in baggage due to the risk of fire and must be packed in a sealed bag in your carry-on luggage. However, this doesn't mean that you can use them during the flight.
Most airlines allow you to take between 15 to 20 disposable devices, so long as they are safely sealed and stored in your hand luggage, but it is worth checking before you fly. For example, these UK airlines state the following:
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.
You can look at the airline's policy on how to travel with batteries and if you cannot find any specific mention of vapes or a mention of how many you can carry, give them a call.
Any spare batteries that are not inside a vape device must be wrapped or stored in a protective casing to prevent sparking and stored in your carry-on luggage only.
It is important to remember that vaping on a plane is illegal globally, no exceptions, and with all modern planes being fitted with detectors that can pick up e-cigarette vapour, it's not worth the risk as you can incur heavy fines and disrupt the flight. Rather wait until you have landed and are safely out the terminal before using any of your vape devices.
If you find that you struggle with cravings during a flight, there are a number of nicotine replacement alternatives that you can use to get you through. Nicotine pouches or nicotine gum are discrete options that you can use as a handy back up in case you find yourself in a situation where you'll be unable to vape for extended periods of time. They are easy to use and will keep you out of trouble - defitinetely worth the consideration.
10. Can I bring my vape to another country?
Whilst vaping is legal in the UK, other countries will have different rules and regulations regarding their use and legality, so you should check the specific rules of the country you are travelling to well in advance.
It’s also worth double-checking with the airline you are flying with to make sure exactly how much you can take with you and whether or not you can bring nicotine liquids with you.
In Australia, for example, you can only import and use vape devices or nicotine-containing e-liquids if you have a prescription from a medical professional, while some countries like Singapore have a total ban on vaping and in the US regulations depend on which state you are flying to.
If you are flying to a vape-friendly country, it's also worth bearing in mind that there may be differences in bottle size and more importantly, how much nicotine they offer. The UK has a 20mg strength max limit and 10ml pre-mixed bottle sizes, whereas, in countries like South Africa, you can buy a 30ml bottle containing 50mg of nicotine, so you may want to make sure you know how much you are getting.
11. Which countries are vapes banned
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you put a vape in carry-on?
That’s usually the correct place for it. Keep it switched off, store it securely to avoid accidental activation and protect spare batteries properly. You can carry yout vape device onboard, but you can’t vape or charge it during the flight.
Can you take vape juice on a plane?
Yes, you can usually take vape juice in your carry-on, but you must follow your airport’s liquids rules, as limits and packaging can vary. Keep bottles sealed, place them in your liquids bag if required, and consider a leak-proof bag as pressure changes can force liquid out of bottles or pods.
Do vapes have to go in hand luggage or checked luggage?
Vapes and spare batteries should go in hand luggage (carry-on), not checked baggage. Airlines restrict lithium batteries in the hold because of fire risk. Keep devices switched off and store spare batteries safely (ideally in a case) to prevent accidental activation.
Can you bring disposable vapes on a plane?
You can usually bring disposable vapes in your carry-on, but you can’t use them onboard. Keep them protected from accidental activation and check your airline’s guidance on batteries, if you’re carrying several. If you’re flying internationally, confirm destination rules, as some countries restrict or ban vapes.
Can you charge a vape on a plane?
In most cases, no. Airlines typically prohibit charging vape devices onboard. Even if you have a USB port available, charging the kit will be seen as using it. The safest approach is to keep the device powered off and packed securely for the duration of the flight.
Can you vape in an airport?
Sometimes, but only in designated smoking or vaping areas (and many airports don’t have them anymore). Always check signage or ask staff, because rules vary widely by airport and country. If you vape where it’s not allowed, you risk fines or being stopped by security.
Why does my vape leak when I fly?
Cabin pressure changes can push e-liquid through coils and seals, especially if your tank or pod is full. To reduce leaks, keep your device upright and empty pods and tanks if possible. Avoid overfilling, and store pods and bottles in a sealed bag. If possible, travel with a lower liquid level and refill after landing.
Should I empty my vape tank before flying?
It’s a good idea. A full tank is more likely to leak during take-off and landing due to pressure changes. If you use a refillable tank, empty it (or leave it partially filled), close airflow if your tank has it, and keep everything upright and sealed in a bag.
Can you bring vape coils and pods on a plane?
Yes. Coils and pods are usually fine in carry-on. Keep spare pods sealed and store them upright if possible. If you’re bringing refillable pods, avoid filling them to the brim to reduce leak risk, and keep tissues/wipes handy just in case.
Will airport security confiscate my vape?
Security usually won’t confiscate it if you pack it correctly (hand luggage only and switched off) and follow liquids rules for e-liquid. Issues tend to happen if the device is in checked baggage, liquids aren’t packed correctly, or you’re flying to a destination where vapes are restricted. Always double check with your airline before you fly.
Can you take vapes on a plane internationally?
Often yes, but international travel adds a second layer: destination laws. Some countries restrict or ban vapes, nicotine products, or specific strengths. Before you fly, check your airline policy and the rules for your destination (and any stopover country), as these can change.
Conclusion
We hope this article has proved to be useful. If you have any doubts as to the airline policy or the attitudes of the country you are flying to we recommend that you call your airline to confirm and make sure that you are travelling responsibly so you can jet off with peace of mind.