Can You Take Vapes On A Plane? An Ultimate Guide To Vaping And Air Travel
Due to the everchanging nature of airport rules and regulations worldwide, flying with vapes and e-liquids can be a daunting task. Regulations are not consistent amongst all airports and not every country allows vapes, so it is most advisable to check over rulings in both airports from departure and arrival.
In this blog we will cover the most up-to-date information regarding vaping, air-travel and airport etiquette when using vapes and other nicotine-related products.
You should keep in mind that although some countries’ regulations remain alike those within the UK, many countries enforce laws against simply using a vape. In the worst cases, this may even result in a prison sentence if you are caught vaping in a country with strict regulations. In this instance, it is necessary to understand how to pack and store your vapes, so you remain in accordance with regulations and are aware of where you are allowed to vape safely.
Which Countries Have Banned Vaping?
According to the most recent report in 2024 from the World Health Organization, vaping is currently banned in approximately 34 countries. Popular locations with a blanket ban include Brazil, India, Mexico, Qatar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and the Maldives. Other locations such as Turkey heavily regulate vaping, prohibiting anything outside of personal use. It is worth checking on a case-by-case basis if your country of destination is lenient with vaping. It is also necessary to consider that vape equipment and liquids may be discarded at authorities’ discretion.
It is especially risky vaping in strictly enforced countries, particularly where vaping is completely illegal. If found vaping under any circumstance, Thailand offers a jail sentence which applies to both Thai residents and foreigners, as well as a hefty fine. In Singapore, “Any person who is convicted of possession, use and purchase of e-vaporisers is liable to a fine not exceeding $2,000”.
Will Vaping Affect My Health Insurance Premiums?
Unfortunately yes. Many insurance firms will allocate vaping into the same category as smoking and nicotine intake. According to insurance providers, method of nicotine intake is irrelevant if the user is still receiving it. It is worth checking with your provider regardless, but there is a good chance you will need to announce yourself as a smoker, even if you're not a cigarette user.
Vitality cites this bracket includes e-cigarettes and even chewing nicotine, due to uncertainty of long-term effects. Aviva bluntly states: "vaping is classed as smoking".
How Many Vapes Can You Take On A Plane?
There is no single answer on how many vapes airlines allow you to take, as each will have individual rules and regulations regarding how many can be taken on board, with some enforcing stricter policies than others. Providers such as Jet2, British Airways, Emirates and EasyJet allow you to take a maximum of up to 15 e-cigarettes. EasyJet allow a maximum of 2 spare batteries with e-cigarettes.
Although these numbers may sound excessive, it is illegal to sell vape related products in many countries. Therefore, it is essential to prepare accordingly for the duration of your holiday, as some locations won’t have vendors to provide any vape-related products or accessories. It may even be worth considering buying extra liquid or a vape at the airport just to be safe.
We recommend working out your weekly vape usage, whether it be vape liquid or vape coils, and use this as a guideline to determine what and how much you need to bring to last the trip.
Vape Kits
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VOOPOO Argus G2 Mini Vape Kit (Pack of 2)
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Where To Put Your Vapes In Luggage
Any vape device that contains an internal battery must stay in your hand luggage. Similarly, external batteries must be kept within hand luggage. Every device must be kept individually contained and protected in its original packaging, appropriate plastic bags or protective pouches. Do not put vape devices in checked luggage. This prevents risk of discarded items, flight delays and issues and risk of combustion from air pressure.
Small vape kits such as pod devices are easy and most ideal to travel with, as they are designed to be compact, and take up less room.
Airport Security Checks & Airline Policies On Vapes - What To Expect
Now that you’re more familiarised with rules and regulations, it’s time to dive into everything you need to know about vaping restrictions within UK airports. When travelling with your vape through an airport it is important to understand what security checks and policies you will have to adhere to. Following these accordingly will ensure smooth travelling and safe transfer of vape kits and e-liquids.
Different airlines will impose different restrictions regarding vapes and many other products, so be sure to double-check before bringing them to avoid delays or issues prior to your holiday travels!
Can You Vape In UK Airports?
No airports within the UK allow vaping within the terminal buildings in accordance with smoking and vaping laws. Some airports have provided designated vaping areas, which have been signposted outside of terminal buildings, and in certain cases, some airports such as Dubai Airport have established smoking and vaping lounges.
Airports are classed as enclosed public spaces and therefore fall under UK policy set in 2016, prohibiting the use of vapes inside these spaces. Some airports across the UK will provide spaces to vape, but as a rule of thumb, don't vape in an airport.
Which Airports Have Smoking And Vaping Areas?
Some of the UK’s larger and major airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester offer designated smoking and vaping areas outside of the terminals past security. Some only provide smoking areas prior to security, meaning you may have a long delay between your arrival and last opportunity to vape. You can plan accordingly by checking alternative nicotine intakes, such as nic pouches or NRTs.
Some airports have a vaping-only space, which may prove advantageous for individuals who are vaping particularly to quit smoking, and may be influenced by cigarette smokers. Alternatively, not every airport provides a separate space, with many areas being accessible to both vapers and smokers. This may be problematic if you’re a vaper who has converted from smoking and are suddenly surrounded by tempting smells of cigarette smoke. If you intend to use a vaping space, this is worth considering and checking prior to arrival.
Smoking & Vaping Policy By Airport
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Aberdeen Airport
Aberdeen Airport PolicyThere is a smoking area available near Gate 5, although only accessible at a £2 fee.
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Belfast City Airport
Belfast City Airport PolicyThere are no smoking areas available inside the airport or past security.
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Belfast International Airport
Belfast Airport PolicySmoking areas are available only outside of the terminal.
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Cardiff Airport
Cardiff Airport PolicyDesignated smoking areas are available outside the terminal and airside in the departure lounge.
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East Midlands Airport
East Midlands Airport PolicyOnce you've passed through security, there is a smoking and vaping area on the upper floor of the main Departure Lounge, through the restaurant Castle Rock.
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Gatwick Airport
Gatwick Airport PolicyThere are no freely open smoking areas, however at South Terminal, the My Lounge airport lounge features an outdoor terrace where passengers can smoke if they wish.
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Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport PolicyAccording to their website, there are only designated smoking areas outside of the building. Other sources have recently stated there are smoking areas at Terminals 3 & 4, however.
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Humberside Airport
Humberside Airport PolicyA smoking area is available a short distance from the terminal entrance. There are no smoking areas past security.
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Liverpool John Lennon Airport
Liverpool John Lennon Airport PolicyE-cigarettes are not permitted for use inside the terminal building or onboard your aircraft, but may be used in the airport's designated smoking areas.
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London City Airport
London City Airport PolicySmoking and vaping are not allowed inside the terminal building or after you pass through security.
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Luton London Airport
Luton London Airport Policy"We have designated sheltered smoking located outside of the front of the terminal building, before departures. These are the only permitted smoking areas at LLA."
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Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport PolicyThere are smoking areas in Terminals 1 & 2, but none in Terminal 3.
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Newcastle Airport
Newcastle Airport PolicyThere is an outdoor smoking area, however it is only accessible to Bar 11 customers.
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Southampton Airport
Southampton Airport PolicyThere is a smoking area outside of the terminal, but none past security.
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Stanstead Airport
Stansted Airport PolicyThere are various smoking areas throughout the airport, though none in the airside portion of the building.
Can You Bring Vapes Through Airport Security?
In most cases you can take vapes and e-liquids through airport security with no issue, so long as regulations are followed. E-cigarettes must be kept in carry-on baggage under strict standards. Batteries must be switched off, and if possible, removed from vaping devices and kept alongside in your carry-on baggage.
Similarly, any vape liquids in carry-on are treated in the same regard as other liquids and must be stored in transparent plastic bags. Containers must be no larger than 100ml. Vape pods and tanks will need to be detached and stored with liquids in transparent bags.
In short:
- Turn the battery off.
- Pack your vape in carry-on luggage only.
- Remove pods or tanks.
- Store pods or tanks containing liquids in transparent plastic bags.
- Keep batteries available and accessible for any separate electronic scanning.
Can You Take Electronic Cigarettes On Planes?
Yes, you are allowed to take electronic cigarettes on board, but you must not put your vape in your checked luggage. E-cigarettes, like laptops, mobile devices and other electronic devices, contain lithium-ion batteries, meaning they will not be permitted in hold luggage under any circumstances. Failure to comply may result in delays and can cause great danger to yourself and other passengers. Ensure that you keep your vape in your hand luggage to avoid issues or disposal of any devices.
Can You Take Disposable Vapes On An Airplane?
Due to the forthcoming ban of all disposable vapes in the UK from the 1st of June 2025, it is not advisable to take disposable vapes on a plane. If you do intend to take a disposable vape pen prior to the ban, ensure it is kept in hand luggage, not in checked luggage. Failure to comply carries the risk of discarded items, legal trouble and can potentially pose a safety risk on the flight.
Many countries already have restrictions, or a complete ban. Once legislation is in place, the UK has no leniency in looking the other way towards the use and sale of disposables. For this reason we would advise to not take disposable vapes as they will likely be flagged by security.
In the same regard, if disposable vapes are available in your destination, we wouldn’t advise bringing them on the flight back. There is no clear guideline on importing disposable vapes for personal use currently, though this is very prone to change. There is a high likelihood your disposable vape will be binned if flagged by security.
Are There Alternatives To Disposable Vapes Post-Ban?
If your main method of vaping is through disposables, you will be out of luck following the changes from the 1st of June. Fortunately, there are alternative methods of vaping that closely recreate the experience of smoking a disposable, which often work out cheaper over time. If you are looking for the closest possible recreation of disposable vapes, we would recommend nic salts with double concentrated flavour, paired with refillable pod kits.
Can I Vape On The Plane?
Where there are no blanket restrictions, you can bring your vape on board in most airlines, but should never attempt to vape on a plane. Gatwick Airport’s online guide states: “Using e-cigarettes on the plane is not permitted by any airline.” Below are regulations from popular airlines:
Vaping Policy By Airline
Aer Lingus
Aer Lingus states: “You may carry electronic cigarettes on board but are strictly forbidden to use electronic cigarettes or any other type of cigarette on board the aircraft.”
British Airways
British Airways states: “Smoking, including the use of personal vaporisers such as vapes, e-cigarettes, e-pipes or any other smoking tool or device is completely prohibited on board our aircraft, as well as in any airports around the world.”
EasyJet
EasyJet states: “You can’t smoke any type of cigarette on the plane. It’s a criminal offense to do so.”
Emirates
Emirates states: “All Emirates flights are non-smoking – this also includes the use of e-cigarettes. No e-cigarettes can be used on board Emirates flights.”
Jet2
Jet2 states: “In accordance with safety laws, smoking and the use of e-cigarettes is strictly prohibited on all flights.”
RyanAir
RyanAir states: "You can take e-cigs on the plane but you cannot use them.”
Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic states: that you can carry electronic cigarettes on board, but cannot smoke them.
It is also strongly advisable that you do not attempt to use your vape in secret, in the aisles or in the toilet area. Airlines are well-equipped to catch out offenders and being found vaping can carry heavy consequences in the form of fines, airline bans and even criminal charges. You will be required to carry your vape on your person, but do not attempt to use it at any time on flight. You can't charge your vape on a plane with most airlines either, so the best course of action is to keep your vape securely packed in your carry-on, and leave it there before you board the plane.
Nicotine and E-Liquid Restrictions In Travel - Nicotine Replacement In Accordance With Vaping Laws
Can You Take E-Liquid On A Plane?
Provided you have complied with all security checks and storage regulations, you can bring e-liquid on the plane with you. E-liquids or refills in hand luggage must be packed in a clear plastic bag as part of your liquid allowance. Unlike other vape gear, properly contained liquids can also be stored in checked luggage. This being said, e-liquid cannot be used whilst travelling, and should be kept stored safely.
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How Much E-Liquid Can You Take When Flying?
Vape juice falls under the same umbrella as other liquids – when stored with carry-on luggage, vape juice containers must not exceed 100ml in size and capacity.
Most popular e-liquids are around 10ml, so you shouldn’t be stunted by regulations so long as you’ve prepared room alongside your essential toiletries. That being said, you may take any e-liquids, including top-up bottles, so long as they don’t exceed the 100ml volume per container cap.
Many UK and international airports have trialed new CT scanning technology, which would reduce steps to pass travellers through, whilst allowing a higher liquid volume of up to 2l. As it currently stands, however, the national limit remains at 100ml per item.
Do I Need To Empty My Vape Tank/Vape Pod Before Flying?
You are not required to empty a pod or tank prior to flying, as it would come under the 100ml allowance, but we would still suggest you do. If you choose not to, you will still be required to treat it alike other liquid storage units and bag it accordingly.
Due to shifting pressures during the course of flight, e-liquid is prone to leaking from pods or tanks, damaging your other belongings. To combat this, simply empty the tank or pod prior to your flight. If your tank or pod is packed in your carry-on baggage, it is even more essential to ensure adequate packaging as it will be out of your sight and control during the flight.
Vape Pods
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Mesh 0.6ohm Mesh 0.8ohm Mesh 1.0ohm 1.2ohm 0.4ohm - only compatible with Vaporesso Xros Pro & Xros 4
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Oxva Xlim V3 Replacement Pod Cartridges
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Have You Considered Nicotine Pouches?
If you are concerned about travelling for longer periods of time without access to nicotine, you may wish to bring a nicotine replacement product. Nicotine pouches are a discreet alternative method of nicotine intake, which are permitted for use on flights. They are placed between the gum and cheek and steadily release nicotine over time without producing any vapour, nor requiring an electronic device to be used. This follows flight policies and allows you to satisfy cravings easily and discreetly.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) classify nicotine pouches in the same category as nicotine gum, patches, and other forms of nicotine replacement therapy which are not restricted. The TSA state that “powder-like substances greater than 12oz/350ml must be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening.” It is therefore advised that if you do take nicotine pouches, place any containers greater than 12oz in your checked baggage for your own convenience.
Nicotine Pouches
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Mango Nicotine Pouches by LiQuid
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In Summary
It is always worth checking on a locational basis what guidelines your country of destination will enforce. While many countries have relaxed or slight pushback to vaping regulations, there are outliers which, although are popular destinations, will heavily forbid usage of e-cigarettes. In this sense, research and preparation are absolutely essential.
On the other hand, you will find that regulations across airports remain mostly consistent. If you are travelling with a vape it is still necessary to check guidelines depending on which airport and airline you are flying with. As far as we are aware, no airlines allow vaping on board. Whether you can vape at the airport is more subjective, so it is worth checking if there are allocated smoking areas at your chosen airport.
