Can You Take Vapes in Hand Luggage?

Can You Take Vapes in Hand Luggage?

Yes, you can take vapes in your hand luggage when flying from the UK or most international airports. In fact, you're required to do so. Vapes, whether disposable or refillable, contain lithium-ion batteries, which are not allowed in checked baggage due to fire risk. Airlines and airport security regulations make it clear: if you're bringing a vape on your journey, it must be stored in your cabin bag, not your suitcase.

Knowing how to pack your vape properly, understanding the rules around liquids, and being aware of usage restrictions can help you avoid delays or problems at the airport.

Why Vapes Belong in Your Cabin Bag

Lithium-ion batteries, the power source in all vape devices, pose a potential safety risk if damaged, overheated, or short-circuited. Because of this, aviation authorities around the world—including the UK Civil Aviation Authority—require these items to be carried in hand luggage where cabin crew can respond quickly in case of any issue.

Putting a vape in your checked baggage is not only discouraged—it’s prohibited on most commercial airlines. If a vape is found during baggage screening, your suitcase could be delayed, flagged, or even pulled for inspection.

Rules for Packing Your Vape

When packing a vape in your carry-on, it’s important to take a few precautions. The device should be turned off and stored safely to prevent accidental activation. If it has a removable battery, you should disconnect it and store the battery in a protective case. Disposable vapes, which don’t have an off switch, should be packed carefully to avoid pressure on the activation mechanism.

E-liquids fall under standard airport liquid rules. This means any bottle of vape juice must be 100ml or less and placed inside your clear, resealable plastic liquids bag for security screening. If you carry multiple small bottles, ensure the total volume of liquids in your bag doesn’t exceed the allowed limit, typically one litre in total.

It’s also smart to keep your vape easily accessible in case airport security asks to inspect it. Having to dig through your bag at the scanner slows down the process and could cause unnecessary stress at the checkpoint.

Can You Use a Vape at the Airport or Onboard?

You’re not allowed to vape inside UK airport terminals unless they have designated smoking or vaping areas. Most airports treat vaping the same as smoking, meaning you’ll need to go outside or to a designated zone. Using a vape in non-smoking areas, toilets, or departure gates can lead to fines or ejection from the premises.

Once on the plane, vaping is completely prohibited. All UK airlines—and most global carriers—ban the use of any e-cigarette or vape device during the flight. Attempting to vape onboard can result in serious consequences, including fines, flight bans, or even being arrested upon landing. Vapour can trigger sensitive smoke detectors, especially in aircraft toilets, making it a strict safety issue.

How Many Vape Devices Can You Bring?

While there isn’t a strict limit on how many vapes you can carry in your hand luggage, bringing more than a few may raise suspicion with airport security or customs. If you're carrying multiple devices, be prepared to explain they’re for personal use. Carrying a large number of vapes could be seen as commercial intent, especially when flying into countries with stricter customs laws.

It’s best to stick to a reasonable amount—one or two devices and a few e-liquid bottles are typically acceptable for personal travel.

Flying Through Countries With Vape Restrictions

Even if you're legally allowed to carry vapes in hand luggage in the UK, some countries have different rules. If you're connecting through or arriving in countries like Thailand, India, or certain Middle Eastern nations, vaping products may be restricted or banned altogether. In these places, possession alone can result in fines, confiscation, or worse.

Always check both the airline policy and the laws at your destination. Some airports may even confiscate vape devices during layovers, especially if you're transferring between terminals or passing through customs during a stopover.

What Happens If You Forget and Pack a Vape in Checked Luggage?

If a vape is discovered in your checked luggage during screening, airport security may remove the item or delay your bag. In some cases, it may be confiscated or reported, particularly if the airline has a strict no-exception policy on battery-powered devices in the hold.

If you remember after checking your bag, inform airline staff immediately. They may be able to retrieve the bag before it’s loaded onto the aircraft. However, this can cause delays, so it’s always better to double-check your packing before you leave home.

Dealing with Airport Security and Vape-Related Questions

Security staff may ask about your vape device, especially if it shows up clearly on the scanner. Be honest and cooperative. It’s not illegal to carry a vape through airport security in the UK as long as it’s stored correctly. Keeping your e-liquids in your liquids bag and your vape easily accessible can make the process quicker and smoother.

If you’re travelling with a refillable device, make sure the tank is empty or sealed tightly to prevent leaks due to cabin pressure changes.

Final Word

You can take vapes in your hand luggage, but not in your checked suitcase. Keep them packed safely, follow liquid rules for any e-liquid bottles, and respect the no-vaping policies at airports and on aircraft. Travelling with a vape is easy when you know the rules—and sticking to them helps ensure a smooth journey for you and everyone else onboard.