If you’ve switched from smoking to vaping, you might find that your need for nicotine isn’t as strong as before. You can probably go longer without vaping than you could go without a cigarette. Still, when traveling, you probably don’t want to be far from your vape device. It’s a lot like carrying cigarettes when flying internationally.
However, bringing a vape on a plane is a bit more complicated than packing a pack of cigarettes. Vaping devices involve two key items airlines consider risky—liquids and lithium-ion batteries. Plus, the laws surrounding vaping vary widely around the world. Unlike cigarettes, you can’t always assume it’s easy to buy vape gear or e-liquid anywhere. And traveling with a vape isn’t as simple as slipping a cigarette pack into your bag.
So, is it okay to bring a vape on a plane in 2025? Generally, yes, as long as you follow the rules for traveling with liquids and batteries. Still, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Important Tip: Vaping Laws Change Often
Vaping laws are constantly changing. Before you travel, make sure to check the latest regulations regarding vaping and flying.
The most important thing to remember is that vaping laws can change unexpectedly, both within different countries and with airlines. The information here is accurate as of the time of writing, but it’s essential to verify current rules before you fly.
How to Safely Bring a Vape on a Plane
Always pack your vaping device and spare batteries in your carry-on bag. Do not pack them in checked luggage unless the battery is removed and stored separately in your carry-on.
Airlines are particularly concerned about the lithium-ion batteries found in most vapes, as these can overheat and pose a fire risk. With the change in air pressure at high altitudes, the risk is heightened. For this reason, vaping devices are not allowed in checked luggage unless the battery is removed.
Here’s what most airlines require for traveling with vapes:
- Any device with a built-in battery or an installed battery must be packed in your carry-on and turned off. Some security officers might let you carry it in your pocket, but check with the airline.
- Spare batteries should also be kept in your carry-on, and it’s best to pack them in protective cases that prevent them from touching metal objects.
- If you’re bringing disposable vapes, pack them in your carry-on bag, in a zip-top bag along with your other liquid items. This rule is due to the liquid in the vapes, which cannot be removed.
While these rules may seem strict, they are in place to reduce the risk of fires. Having these devices in the passenger area allows flight attendants to respond quickly if needed.
How to Pack Your Vape for Safety
Even when packed properly, there’s still a small risk of a vape device overheating. There have been incidents, like a 2025 Spirit Airlines flight where a vape overheated. To reduce the risk:
- If your vape has a removable battery, take the battery out and store it separately.
- If your vape has a manual switch or fire button, make sure it’s turned off.
- For pod-based vapes without manual buttons, remove the pod to turn it off.
- Keep disposable vapes in their original packaging to avoid accidental activation or leaks.
- Never charge your vape in your carry-on bag, and avoid using in-seat USB ports to charge it.
What Happens If You Put a Vape in Your Checked Luggage?
If you pack your vape in your checked luggage, it’s likely to be found by security and confiscated. No airline permits vapes or devices with lithium-ion batteries in checked baggage due to the fire risk. If a fire occurs, it needs to be handled in the passenger cabin, where flight staff can act quickly.
How to Bring Vape Juice on a Plane
You can carry vape juice in your carry-on bag, but it must be placed in a zip-top bag with your other liquids. Vape juice can also be packed in your checked luggage without restrictions.
When traveling with liquids, there are additional rules you’ll need to follow:
- Vape juice bottles should be no larger than 3.4 oz (100 ml) if packed in your carry-on.
- All liquids in your carry-on must fit into one quart-sized zip-top bag. Be prepared to remove the bag for separate screening at security.
- You can carry more vape juice in your checked baggage, but it’s a good idea to pack it in plastic bags to prevent leaks.
Can You Vape on a Plane?
Vaping is strictly prohibited during flights. If you’re concerned about nicotine cravings on a long journey, bring nicotine gum or patches instead.
Vaping on a plane is illegal, and attempting to do so can result in serious legal consequences. If you’re concerned about not having access to nicotine during a flight, consider bringing an alternative nicotine source like gum or patches.
Can You Vape at the Airport?
You can vape in airports, but only in designated smoking areas. Some airports only have smoking areas outside the terminals, so it’s a good idea to bring a nicotine alternative if you don’t want to leave the airport.
It’s important to remember that some airports don’t have smoking areas inside the terminal, or they may be hard to find. In many cases, these areas are outdoors, not air-conditioned, and may lack seating.
If the airport has no smoking area, you may need to leave the airport to vape, go through customs, and re-enter security before your next flight. Having a backup nicotine option is helpful in these situations.
Can You Buy Vape Juice and Coils Abroad?
Vaping laws vary significantly from country to country, so do your research before you travel internationally.
In some countries, vaping products are illegal or heavily restricted. Even in places where vaping is allowed, certain products might not be available, such as e-liquids with nicotine or flavored e-liquids. It’s essential to understand the regulations of your destination before you travel.
In some places, vaping products are easy to find and purchase, while in others, the sale or importation of e-cigarettes is banned. Be sure to research local laws to avoid surprises when you arrive.
Always Check Local Vaping Laws Before Traveling
Avoid issues by making sure you know where vaping is allowed and where it’s not. In most places, you can’t vape where smoking is banned.
Before traveling, always check the local vaping laws. While it’s safe to assume you can’t vape in places where smoking is prohibited, it’s still a good idea to research whether specific locations, like airports, have designated vaping areas.
