Can You Take Vapes Through Airport Security?

Can You Take Vapes Through Airport Security?

Yes, you can take vapes through airport security, but there are specific rules you need to follow. Most airports, including those in the UK, allow passengers to bring vape devices in their hand luggage only. Vapes—whether disposable, pod-based, or refillable—must not be packed in checked baggage due to the fire risk posed by lithium-ion batteries.

You are also allowed to carry small quantities of e-liquid through security, but these must comply with the UK liquid restrictions for cabin baggage: containers no larger than 100ml, stored within a single, clear, resealable plastic bag not exceeding 1 litre in total.

Rules on Vapes at Security Checkpoints

When passing through airport security, you may be asked to remove your vape device from your bag, especially if it contains a visible battery. Security staff may scan or inspect it just like any other electronic item. To avoid delays, place your vape device in the tray along with your phone, wallet, and other handheld electronics.

Although you’re allowed to bring vapes through security, you cannot use them anywhere inside the airport terminal unless there is a designated smoking or vaping area. Vaping in toilets, shops, or gate areas is prohibited and may result in fines or being denied boarding.

What About E-Liquids and Vape Juice?

E-liquids are considered liquids under airport security rules, just like shampoo or perfume. This means you must:

• Use containers no larger than 100ml

• Store all liquids in a clear, resealable plastic bag

• Present them separately at the security checkpoint

If you’re carrying more than 100ml of e-liquid, it must go in your checked luggage—provided it’s well-sealed to prevent leaks and allowed by the airline. You can’t take larger bottles through security, even if they’re almost empty.

Pre-filled pods or cartridges also count as liquids, so these must be packed according to the same 100ml rule.

Can You Bring Multiple Vapes?

You can bring multiple vape devices, but they must all go in your hand luggage. If you’re carrying several disposables or spare kits, it’s best to keep them organised and be prepared to explain that they are for personal use. Customs and security officials may question large quantities if they suspect commercial intent.

There are also limits on the number of spare batteries you can carry on some airlines, especially high-capacity ones. Most travellers with one or two devices and a few e-liquid bottles won’t encounter problems, but if you’re bringing extras, check the airline’s policy before you fly.

Airline-Specific Policies and International Differences

Although most UK airports allow you to take vapes through security in hand luggage, airline rules can vary, especially on international routes. Some carriers have stricter limits on the number of devices or spare batteries you can carry. If you're connecting through or arriving in a country where vaping is banned or tightly regulated—such as Thailand, India, or Qatar—you may have your vape confiscated upon arrival, even if it was allowed in the departure airport.

To avoid complications, always check the vaping laws of your destination country before you travel. What is legal and routine in the UK could carry fines or penalties elsewhere, even for possession of a single device.

Vape Device Safety When Flying

To ensure your vape passes through security without issue, make sure it’s clean, switched off, and stored securely. If your device has a removable battery, use a protective case to prevent accidental contact with metal objects like keys or coins, which could cause a short circuit. For built-in battery devices, lock the fire button if possible to stop it from activating in your bag. Some vapes have automatic shut-off features, but it’s safer to manually switch off or disconnect the power if your model allows it.

Vape devices don’t need to be disassembled to go through security, but keeping them in a dedicated pouch or separate section of your bag makes it easier if airport staff request inspection.

What Happens If Airport Security Has Questions

If security staff at the checkpoint have questions about your vape, stay calm and explain that it’s a personal electronic device powered by a lithium-ion battery. In most cases, they’ll simply inspect the vape to ensure it’s not tampered with or improperly stored. If you’ve packed multiple devices or large volumes of e-liquid, you may be asked to explain the purpose—particularly if you’re flying into a region where vaping is restricted.

Providing receipts or showing that your devices are for personal use rather than resale can help. Always cooperate with staff, and be prepared to discard items that don’t comply with security or customs regulations.

Why You Should Never Pack Vapes in Checked Baggage

Packing a vape in your checked luggage is not just discouraged—it’s prohibited by almost every major airline. The lithium batteries inside vape devices pose a fire hazard in pressurised cargo holds where heat and pressure changes can cause battery failure. If airport staff discover a vape in a checked bag, the device may be removed and disposed of without notice, and your luggage could be delayed.

To avoid this, always double-check your bags before check-in and make sure all vape devices and batteries are stored safely in your carry-on.

Final Word

Yes, you can take vapes through airport security, but only in your hand luggage. You must comply with liquid restrictions for e-liquids and never pack your vape in checked baggage. Make sure your device is turned off, stored safely, and not used anywhere inside the terminal unless in a designated area. Knowing the rules in advance means you’ll get through security smoothly and avoid delays or confiscations.