If you are planning to bringing your vapes on an airplane but you're also worried that you will run into complications with TSA, this article is to help you get a better understanding on how to go about doing so correctly. Keep in mind that these are usually just general rules to follow and in no way guarantees you will be problem free at the airport. We have heard of many instances where even properly stored and packaged devices get stopped at TSA.
Although there are many worries about traveling with vaping equipment, we are lucky that it has not gotten to the point where desperate measures are taken and people are risking it all to hide their devices just to be able to bring it with them. Playing games with the TSA will never end well for you even if you have the upper hand in an argument because simply put, it will take time to assess the situation and possibly cause you to miss your flight, the last thing you want to happen.
Take note of the following basic rules to lessen the change of running into complications when going through security. Again, one must keep in mind that this in no way guarantees you to be trouble free but it definitely will help. These basic rules apply to flying within the US and does not include the rules for international flights as every country may have different methods and rules to follow.
- For e-juice just follow the normal TSA Guidelines for liquids.
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Placing these items in the small bag and separating from your carry-on baggage facilitates the screening process. Pack items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in checked baggage.
- The vape itself can be stored in your carry-on luggage but NOT your checked luggage. If you have to check your bag at the gate, then you must remove your device from the luggage prior to going through security. From the TSA:
These devices are prohibited in checked baggage by international regulations and the FAA prohibits carriage in checked baggage. These devices can only be carried in the aircraft cabin (in carry-on baggage or on your person). Please also check your airline’s policy as they may place additional restrictions on these devices.
When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or planeside, all electronic cigarette and vaping devices, along with any spare lithium batteries, must be removed from the bag and should be taken with you in the aircraft cabin.
- Your lithium batteries are also prohibited from checked luggage, but you can bring them in your carry-on. It’s also a really good idea to get a battery case to make sure that they don’t touch each other or any other metal objects and start a fire. From the TSA:
You may travel with dry batteries (AA, AAA, C, and D) in your carry-on or checked baggage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prohibits loose lithium batteries from being transported in checked baggage.
- If you’re thinking about stealth vaping on a plane: please don't. Not only is it illegal to do so, the sight of vapor will cause more problems than you can imagine if a fellow passenger thinks something is on fire in the aircraft.
- You are also not allowed to charge your vaporizer on the plane. This action has been banned by the DOT.
- Never fly with a full tank of e-liquid. Due to the pressure from the flight, it will cause severe leaking and will become an absolute mess once you are able to get your hands on it. It is best to travel with an empty tank and separate all the liquids in ziplock bags to ensure no leaking during flight.
If you are planning to travel with your vape gear and these basic rules aren't convincing enough for you, contact the airport you are flying in/out of and ask questions. After all, simply calling to ask doesn't cost you a dime but can save you a headache.