Vapes are available in all shapes and sizes, from disposable options that contain several hits to reusable vape pens and mods that can be refilled with vape liquid and recharged to use again and again.

With the rise in popularity of vaping, lots of people have questions about whether or not it's okay to travel with one when you're flying. 

The Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, is the U.S. government agency in charge of ensuring safe travel. Here, we look at the TSA's rules regarding vapes and how you can plan for your next trip with your precious cargo along for the ride. 

TSA Rules on Vapes

One of the TSA’s responsibilities is providing the rules for traveling with a vape. The TSA permits nicotine vapes on airplanes if stowed in carry-on luggage during the flight.

Vapes are not allowed to be used on board flights and are only allowed to be used in designated smoking areas in airports. Smoking combustible cigarettes was banned on domestic U.S. flights in 1988, with a ban expanding globally by the early 2000s. Using vapes on flights was banned in 2016. 

Vapes are not permitted in checked luggage, as the lithium-ion batteries inside them pose a potential fire risk in the luggage hold. 

Lithium Battery Restrictions

Lithium batteries pose a potential risk in airplanes because they can overheat and undergo something known as a thermal runaway, which is when a battery rises in temperature uncontrollably.

This process can lead to exothermic reactions and fires. The TSA has strict rules around items containing lithium batteries on board aircraft. 

“Devices containing lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries should be carried in carry-on baggage. Most other consumer electronic devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.”

“Each lithium ion battery must not exceed a Watt-hour (Wh) rating of 100 Wh; or for lithium metal batteries, a lithium content of 2 grams.”

If you’re planning on bringing a vape on board, follow these rules:

• Keep your vape in the original packaging if you can, as it is less likely to activate in the air accidentally. Alternatively, separate the tank from the mod to prevent further accidents. 

• Passengers can carry spare lithium batteries in their carry-on baggage. However, they need to be individually protected to prevent short circuits. 

• Battery terminals (usually the ends) must be protected from short circuits by leaving the batteries in their retail packaging, covering them with tape, using a battery case, putting a battery sleeve in a camera bag, or snugly putting them in a plastic bag or protective pouch.

The TSA provides an ongoing list of incidents involving lithium batteries here.

E-Liquid and TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule

The TSA has a3-1-1 rule for liquids on board. 

“Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.” 

Due to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule, which only permits containers with less than 3.4 oz of liquid that can fit into a 1-quart-sized plastic bag and only allows one bag of liquids on board, passengers who use refillable vapes and mods shouldn't pack refills that exceed this amount. If you are traveling for a longer period, pack e-juice in your checked bag instead. 

Airport and Airline Policies

Most airlines adhere to the TSA’s rules regarding lithium-ion batteries, vapes, and liquids. However, some airlines may have even stricter rules surrounding these items. It’s important to check with the individual airline you are flying with for additional restrictions. 

Tips for Traveling with a Vape

Traveling with a vape doesn’t need to be stressful. If you follow these tips, your next flight should go off without a hitch. 

• Turn off devices before travel. Or keep them in their original packaging. 

• Keep devices easily accessible for inspection. Vapes may be flagged by security and need to be removed from carry-on items.

• Avoid using vapes in airports unless in a designated smoking area. 

• Avoid cheap and high-voltage vapes that are more likely to malfunction. 

International Travel Considerations

While the TSA allows vapes in a passenger’s carry-on, there are different rules around the world for vapes when you land in your final destination. You must check the regulations in the countries you travel to before departing.

For example, vapes are banned in Thailand, India, and Singapore. Find out information on the country you are traveling tohere. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when traveling with a vape. 

• Don’t pack your vape in your checked baggage. Not only is this dangerous, it’s also illegal.

• Don’t pack too much e-liquid in your carry-on; remember the 3-1-1 rule while packing.

• Don’t vape in restricted areas at the airport or onboard flights, as this is illegal and could result in being removed from a flight, a hefty fine, and a criminal record. 

Conclusion

The TSA permits vapes in carry-on luggage but not in checked baggage. Lithium-ion batteries in vapes pose a fire risk in airplane baggage areas. If you're planning on traveling with a vape, follow the rules outlined and be sure to check your destination's rules on vaping.