Anyone planning a trip is likely wondering what the rules are regarding vaping. Vaping is still relatively new, and the rules have changed over time. Here’s what to know about vaping and air travel as of 2024.
What Happens if You Put a Vape in Carry-On?
Yes, you can fly with a vape. In fact, vaping products must be placed in your carry-on luggage only. You can generally bring what you need for personal use, within reason.
How to Bring Your Vape on a Plane
First, make sure your destination allows vaping products. Some countries, including parts of Southeast Asia, strictly ban the possession of vaping devices, and penalties can be severe.
Here are the main rules:
- You may not carry more than 20 batteries at one time, including disposable devices with built-in batteries.
- If your device uses removable batteries, those batteries must be packed separately in a battery case.
- If you use a pod system with a separate pod and battery device, keep those components separate.
The main goal is to prevent accidental firing during transit.
You may also bring up to 100ml of e-liquid in bottled form. It must be packed in a separate clear bag with your other liquids.
What About Other Kinds of Vaping Products?
So far, this applies to nicotine vapes. Cannabis vaping products are different. Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, so you cannot travel with marijuana vape products, even between states where it is legal.
Hemp-derived products are treated differently. If they contain no more than 0.3% delta 9 THC, they are federally legal. However, TSA agents may not always distinguish hemp from marijuana easily. To reduce the chance of problems, keep hemp products in their original packaging with clear labeling that shows they are hemp-derived.
Can You Vape on a Plane?
You can bring a vape on a plane, but you cannot use it during the flight, before takeoff, or after landing while still onboard.
Can You Bring Cigarettes on a Plane?
Yes, you can bring cigarettes and other tobacco products. There are generally no strict limits on carrying cigarettes, cigars, pipes, or loose tobacco. However, you cannot smoke them on the plane or inside the airport outside of designated smoking areas. Airlines usually treat vaping the same way.
Are There Any Rules for Carrying E-Liquids on a Plane?
Yes. Here is a quick refresher on the rules:
- E-liquid bottles may not exceed 100ml and must be packed in a separate clear bag with other liquids.
- All vaping products must be in your carry-on luggage.
- Removable vape batteries must be removed and stored separately in individual battery cases.
- You may not bring more than 20 vape batteries, including built-in batteries.
- You must take steps to prevent accidental firing of devices.
- Cannabis vaping products must be hemp-derived and contain no more than 0.3% delta 9 THC.
- Hemp vape products should remain in original packaging with clear labeling.
Can You Vape at the Airport?
You may not vape inside an airport unless you are in a designated smoking area. If smoking is not allowed in that area, vaping is not allowed there either. Violating airport rules can result in fines or delays.
Can I Use My Vape During Flight?
No. You may not vape on an airplane at any time. This includes before takeoff, after landing, and during the flight. If caught, you could face fines, be removed from the flight, or trigger more serious consequences. The same applies to charging a vape battery onboard if the airline prohibits it.
Trying to hide it by vaping in a bathroom or blowing vapor into clothing is not worth the risk. Vaping on a plane can be treated as a federal offense.
Now You Know the TSA’s Guidelines for Vaping
Traveling with vapes is allowed as long as you follow TSA rules and airline policies. Using a vape on a plane is not allowed and can lead to serious consequences. Always check your airline’s rules and the laws at your destination before traveling.
