Wondering what you can bring on a plane when it comes to vape pens, batteries, and e-cigarettes? It’s a toughie. With so many strict rules about battery-using carry-ons and an ever-changing list of TSA rules, flying PERIOD can be confusing and stressful, much less with vapes!
But don’t panic! Make sure you pack a towel and read on.
We’re here to help you sort out all of the current flight policies so you can bring all of your favorite podpaks, podpens, electronic smoking devices, and various other what-have-yous.
what to know before you board
If you’re heading out for a super chill vacay or a high-stress work trip, either way, your vape’s probably going to be an essential item on your list.
TSA prep is going to start long before you get to the airport. Here’s an overview of the rules:
- Put your vape device and batteries in your carry-on baggage, not your checked bag. This is a rule to reduce fire risk from lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries.
- Check your battery limits. If your devices use lithium-ion batteries, make sure they’re under 100Wh (watt hour) or else you’ll need airline approval.
- Does your device use lithium metal batteries? They should contain less than 2 grams of lithium content to stay under TSA limits.
- Use a battery case to prevent accidental activation of their heating elements. No one wants your vape firing up mid-flight. Seriously.
- Secure vape liquids, gels, and cartridges in a clear quart-sized bag like any other liquid. Each must be under 3.4 oz (100 mL) to get past the security screening. A good rule of thumb is to follow the 3-1-1 rule.
- No mystery liquids! Ensure that everything, especially THC, CBD, or any other substances, is properly labeled and recognizable to the TSA officers.
Every airline is different, so remember to check before you board. Look up their rules and regulations online, especially for international flights.
how to pack your vape for a flight
Taking your vape along for a flight isn’t rocket science; there’s a method to the madness. TSA has clear guidelines, and following them will make things go a lot smoother for everyone during the screening process, especially you.
Always make sure your device is easily accessible. TSA may want to inspect it, and digging through layers of socks in a busy security line is no one’s idea of a good time.
your carry-on bag
Start with your carry-on bag. Vape pens, electronic cigarettes, and any device containing lithium batteries must be in your carry-on only.
TSA flat-out bans these in checked bags, and for good reason: lithium batteries don’t mix well with cargo pressure and altitude. Put them in a dedicated, padded case to keep things secure and organized.
The goal is no damage, no mess, and no drama at the checkpoint.
- Make sure your vape is turned off before you pack it. No one needs an accidental activation in the middle of boarding group B.
- Extra batteries should be in their plastic sleeves or protective cases so they don’t bump into your keys, coins, or other electronics. Not only does this prevent accidental activation of the heating elements, but it also keeps your batteries from getting damaged and potentially breaking.
- Same rule for chargers. Keep them unplugged and tucked away neatly in your carry-on. If you don’t absolutely need a portable power bank for the trip, maybe skip it this time. You’re not going to be able to charge at your seat, anyway.
- Vape juices and disposable pens should be clean, dry, and sealed as well. Take effective measures to make sure they’re secure and won’t spill on anything. Follow the 3-1-1 rule: That means each container must be 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less, and they should all fit into a single quart-sized zip-top bag along with your other toiletries.
- Vape cartridges or pods that contain THC or CBD should be labelled clearly. If it’s legal, it helps to show it. If it’s not, well…don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Place your carry-on baggage above your seat once you board in the overhead bin and keep it there. No puffing, no charging, no exceptions.
Turn on an in-movie, doom scroll on your cell phone, or buy an overpriced airline cocktail if you must, but keep your mouth away from the vape.
your checked baggage
Do not (repeat, do not!) put your vaping devices, batteries, or cartridges in your checked bag. TSA rules are super clear on this, and airlines will not hesitate to pull your luggage or delay your flight if something sets off alarms.
- Stick to clothes, shoes, and whatever non-THC-related stuff you need.
- No batteries, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, or chargers. Your vape gear stays by your side, safely in your carry-on bag, where you can keep an eye on it.
Triple-check before you zip up your suitcase and call that ride to the airport.
in-flight rules
Vaping and smoking are not allowed on planes, and passengers may face fines or arrest for non-compliance. Flight attendants may ask to inspect or confiscate your device if it’s not packed properly or appears to be in use.
Keep your vape in your carry-on, turned off and stored away. No charging, no sneaky puffs, no excuses. Even if you’re flying internationally or between weed-legal states, lighting up in the air is still federally illegal.
And please don’t vape in the bathroom. The detector will catch you. The crew will catch you. It’s not worth it.
the ‘why’ behind battery safety
Lithium-ion batteries are powerful and can get…shall we say, a bit “spicy” when damaged? They can short out, overheat, or catch fire.
This is why TSA is so strict about passengers keeping vapes in the cabin. If something goes wrong mid-flight, the crew can respond, but if it’s in the cargo hold? You’re relying on little more than a hope and a prayer for the safety of everyone on the airplane.
To maximize safety, don’t toss them loose in your bag or let them rattle around next to your other items.
carry-on essentials
Never put spare batteries in checked luggage. We cannot say this enough. Ion batteries in cargo holds are dangerous.
Cases can make it easy to prevent them from rubbing up against other items or accidentally shorting out.
Also, unplug any chargers and don’t bring external battery packs unless you need them. Keeping your vape gear secure, separated, and shut down is key to flying safely and worry-free.
special items and exceptions
If you’re traveling with vape gear for medical reasons, you may be able to bring additional items, but make sure to carry documentation and check TSA’s latest guidelines.
International flights can be a whole different ballgame when it comes to CBD, Delta-8, or THC cartridges. What’s legal in one country might be a hard no in another.
travel tips and reminders
Pack smart and efficiently. Keep your vape gear in an accessible part of your carry-on to minimize delays at security. Don’t make TSA officers go digging.
Keep important items like your ID, wallet, and vape gear separate but reachable. And if you’re carrying cannabis products, make sure they’re clearly labeled, properly stored, and legal where you’re landing.
Packing carefully and using some good old common sense will make your trip way less stressful.
