Any vaper who has to travel will, at some point, wonder if you can bring vapes on a plane and through TSA. But what about disposable vapes? The good news is that you can bring your disposable vape! However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and hassle-free travel experience.
Disposable nicotine vapes are allowed on an airplane, but only in carry-on luggage or personal storage—never in checked luggage due to the lithium-ion battery inside. And going through TSA with a disposable vape is fine, as long as you put it in the container with your other devices and items that contain metal.
Since many disposable vapes seem to be made of all plastic, it’s easy to forget that they contain lithium-ion batteries and have internal metal parts. In fact, all disposable vapes have lithium-ion batteries and are subject to the same restrictions on planes and through TSA as laptops (with the exception that you can use a laptop on a plane).
Rules and regulations
When flying with vapes, it’s imperative to know the rules. Luckily, they’re simple. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) allows you to travel with your vape gear, as long as you don’t use it.
It's important to keep in mind that, while disposable vapes are allowed on a plane, there are some restrictions on where you can use them. All airlines prohibit vaping on board, and some airports may have designated smoking areas where vaping is not allowed. To avoid any issues, it's a good idea to check with your airline and the airport before traveling.
Safety concerns
Something else to consider is the safety of your disposable vape on the airplane. While some may think that a battery exploding is a major concern, it would also apply to laptops, cell phones, and other electronics with lithium-ion batteries.
The thing to look out for with disposables is their (occasionally) problematic auto-firing. One of the most reliable ways to stop a disposable from auto-firing is to slam it down on the pavement. Can’t do that on a plane.
Considering disposables are sold at a host of c-stores and gas stations, it might behoove you to just leave them at home and buy one when you get to your destination.
Under 18 and vaping
If you’re under 18 and traveling with a disposable vape, get rid of it now. Not only should you not fly with a disposable vape, but it’s also against the law for you to use one in general.
While possession of a disposable vape is not illegal for those under 18, it is illegal to purchase them. The TSA may confiscate your device if they suspect you obtained it illegally.
Although TSA is not going to card you to check that you’re of age, it’s best not to give them a reason to see what they can enforce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when you fly or have to go through TSA, think of your disposable vapes like any other small electronic device—you just can’t use them. It’s okay to possess them as long as they’re not in your checked luggage.
Also of note, stealth vaping is only something you do when there aren’t actual consequences. Do not try and vape in an airport or on an airplane. Try nicotine toothpicks, lozenges, or pouches to get you through. If you feel you just can’t wait to have a vape, think of how long you’ll have to wait if you get caught.
Safe travels, and happy vaping!
Jeremy Mann
Vaping for: 14 years
Favorite products:
Favorite flavors: Desserts, fruit mixes, sweet tobaccos
Expertise in: Vaping history, MTL vapes, DIY, cannabis/vapes
Jeremy Mann
Previously having been the chief-editor, I am now a contributor here at Vaping360 and I reside in southeast Michigan. I've been vaping since my first ecig purchase in 2010. For more reasons than I can list, vaping has been a lifesaver for me. Now, my goal is to help other smokers make the switch.