Most airlines will allow you to carry your vape and vape juice on a plane, although vaping is not allowed. There are also some very important restrictions to keep in mind – especially if you’re flying internationally.
It’s also worth remembering that airlines have their own specific rules and regulations and that what is fine on one might not be fine on another. Get stuck into our handy guide to find out everything you need to know about packing your vape before flying.
Am I allowed to take my vape on the plane?
Yes, you are normally allowed to take your vape with you when you fly, as long as you follow these guidelines:
- Make sure to pack your vape in your carry-on bag. Vapes have batteries and heating elements which means they shouldn’t be placed in checked in luggage. Instead, you should have them in your carry-on so they can pass through security as electrical items and you can ensure they are handled with care. If you’re bringing a spare battery, that should come in your carry-on bag too.
- E-liquids can be packed in either your checked luggage or your carry-on bag. However, for security, any liquid packed in your carry-on must be 100ml or less and stored in a transparent package alongside any other liquids.
- It’s also a great idea to contact your airline beforehand. While there are many shared regulations, not all airlines have the same rules around vapes. What’s more, restrictions can sometimes change at short notice, so a quick check can save you a lot of hassle.
How should I pack my vape and vape liquid for the flight?
To help keep your vape in top condition and to avoid any holdups at the airport, there are a few smart things you can do before travelling. We recommend:
- Making sure your pod or tank has as little liquid in it as possible when you fly. The changes in air pressure can force the liquid out and cause leaks. So no refilling just before your flight!
- Storing your vape in a separate case or bag can not only offer your vape extra protection from knocks but can also protect your other possessions from potential leaks.
- Always turn your vape off or use the lock option if it has one. For vapes that have no off switch or lock, you could remove the tank or pod for peace of mind.
- If you do bring extra batteries on the flight with you, be sure to store them in a silicone cover or a case to make sure there’s no chance of them touching each other or other metallic objects.
- When bringing extra e-liquid remember that if it’s over 100ml it needs to be in your checked in luggage and if it’s in your carry-on , it needs to be packaged ready to show to security.
Can I vape on a plane or in the airport?
Vaping isn’t allowed on planes, but there may be some areas of the airport where you’re permitted to vape. This can vary widely depending on where you’re flying from. Look out for a smoking section and signs indicating whether vaping is permitted or not when you’re there, also remember that in some airports there will not be access to a designated smoking/vaping area after you have been through security.
Many airports also have electrical sockets where you can recharge your vape. Be sure to switch your device off, if possible, and store it securely before boarding.
Vaping restrictions at UK airports
All airports have their own restrictions and rules around things like vaping. Here are the restrictions currently in place in a variety of UK airports.
| Airport | Vaping Restriction Status |
| London Luton Airport | Vapes can’t be used anywhere apart from the smoking area outside the terminal, which is found outside the front entrance. |
| Gatwick Airport | Vaping isn’t allowed anywhere inside the North and South Terminals, but designated smoking areas are clearly marked outside each. |
| Heathrow Airport | You aren’t allowed to vape inside the terminal buildings and will find dedicated areas for smoking/vaping outside. |
| Stansted Airport | Vaping hasn’t been permitted indoors at Stansted Airport since August 2014. |
| East Midlands Airport | Vaping hasn’t been permitted indoors at East Midlands Airport since August 2014. |
| Exeter Airport | Using e-cigarettes is not permitted in any part of the airport. |
| Belfast International Airport | Vapes can only be used in the designated smoking areas outside the terminal. |
| Edinburgh Airport | Vapes can only be used in the designated smoking areas outside the terminal. |
| George Best Belfast City Airport | While the use of vapes is prohibited inside the terminal building, outside smoking areas are available. |
| Birmingham Airport | You’re not permitted to vape in the terminal but there is an outside smoking facility available. |
| Bristol Airport | E-cigarettes can only be used in the designated smoking areas. |
| Cardiff Airport | No vaping inside the terminal. Vapes can only be used in the designated smoking areas outside the terminal next to Gate 2. |
| Humberside Airport | Vapes can’t be used within the terminal or outside the terminal entrance, but there is a specific smoking area. |
| Liverpool John Lennon Airport | You’re only permitted to use your vape in the outdoor smoking areas. |
| London City Airport | No vaping is allowed in the terminal or once you pass through security. |
| Manchester Airport | Vaping is not allowed inside the terminal. |
| Newcastle Airport | There are smoking shelters in front of the terminal building and in two other designated areas after security and vaping is only permitted in these areas. |
| Southampton Airport | Vaping is only permitted outside of the terminal building and before passing security. |
Vaping policies of UK airlines
As we mentioned above, restrictions and policies can change so it can be worth checking with your airline before you fly. However, here are the policies currently in place with some of the UKs biggest airlines:
Ryanair, EasyJet, British Airways, Aer Lingus and Virgin Atlantic all say:
- You are allowed to bring a vape on board, but you must not use it on the plane
- Your vape must be in your hand luggage and not checked in
Can I charge my vape on a plane?
It’s best not to charge your vape on a plane. While some airlines may not mind, others will class this as “use”. Charging pre-flight is a much better idea.
The best types of vapes to fly with
While most vapes should be absolutely fine to take on a plane, there are some designs that can be particularly suited to flying. For example, compact vaping devices will take up less space and be handy for packing into your carry-on bag. Also, prefilled pod kits are convenient for travelling, because the pods are already filled with e-liquid and come prepackaged.
When flying with a vape, it’s always a good idea to bring along any extras you might need – such as a backup pod or extra e-liquids as well as things like spare coils. This can be very useful if you’re flying somewhere where your usual brand isn’t available.
How to tackle nicotine cravings during a flight
If the thought of flying nicotine-free doesn’t sound appealing or you’re worried about nicotine cravings during your journey, you might want to consider nicotine pouches. These discreet pouches or strips can be placed between your gums and upper or lower lip, where they slowly release nicotine over time. Not only are they lightweight and discreet, but nicotine pouches can also be disposed of in a standard refuse bin and do not produce any smoke or vapour – making them a handy choice for long-haul flights or frequent fliers.
Can I take my vape abroad
There are many countries where vaping is allowed, but there are also a number where vaping is either restricted or banned.
| Countries with vape restrictions | Countries where vaping is illegal | Countries where vaping is legal but sale of vaping products is illegal |
| Canada | Brunei | Argentina |
| Denmark | Cambodia | Australia |
| Estonia | Jordan | Brazil |
| Japan | Mexico | Colombia |
| Latvia | Qatar | Hong Kong |
| Lithuania | Singapore | India |
| Norway | South Korea (Illegal in public areas) | Lebanon |
| Slovenia | Taiwan | Panama |
| South Africa | Thailand | Turkey |
| USA | Venezuela | Uruguay |
Even in countries where there are no restrictions on the sale of vaping products, it can be a good idea to stock up on the essentials before travelling in case your preferred brands aren’t available. However, always check whether the items are permitted in the country beforehand.
Because restrictions and laws around vaping can change quickly, it’s always a good idea to research just before you go to make sure you’re up to date,.
For a more in-depth look at the various different restrictions, have a look at our guide to vaping laws in other countries.
How to vape considerately abroad
To be a considerate vaper abroad, it’s always important to bear in mind the rules and the culture of the country you’re travelling to. Try to only vape in places that are acceptable, such as outdoor areas away from shop or café entrances, and keep an eye out for smoking areas or other designated spots. There are also some places where vaping isn’t well known, and you may end up answering questions from the uninitiated.
It’s also worth remembering that, like the UK, many hotels and apartments won’t allow vaping in the room. Be sure to check the conditions of your accommodation before your stay.
When you’re planning a trip with your vape, be sure to pack sensibly and check the rules and regulations of your airline as well as your destination before setting out. A little bit of preparation can go a long way! If you’re curious about which vapes are most compact or suitable for flying, be sure to head along and chat to the knowledgeable staff as your local Evapo store. The information in this post is accurate as of December 9th, 2024, but is subject to change and so we always recommend doing your own research ahead of your trip.
