Vaping in International Airports
As there are no specific laws around vapes, airport policies can vary depending on where you are in the world.
Once you’re off your flight, you should be aware of when and where you can use your vape.
Just because Manchester Airport vape rules say you can smoke directly outside the terminal, doesn’t mean the same applies at Malaga Airport, for example.
A little bit of homework will go a long way.
Vapes are only allowed in hand luggage, not checked luggage, but this doesn’t mean you can use them as soon as you land.
Find out ahead of time if your destination has a smoking area. Tenerife Airport, both North and South, allow you to use your vape once you have left departures and are outside the terminal.
This is the same for Dubai International, Newark Liberty International, and Dublin Airports so, if in doubt, always wait until you have collected your luggage and left the airport.
Can You Take a Vape Through Airport Security?
Now that disposables have been banned and people are embracing
disposable alternatives,
there’s more reason to travel with your rechargeable
vape kit.
Airport security will allow you to take your vape kit and
e-liquids on the plane with you, providing you adhere to the following rules:
- Vape devices must be carried in hand luggage. They cannot go in checked luggage. This also goes for any spare batteries, as they pose a fire risk.
- Devices must be completely switched off to avoid them being activated accidentally, and batteries stored in a secure case.
-
E-liquid bottles or any pre-filled pod kits are subject to standard liquid rules.
This means you can only take 100ml or less, and you must present them in a clear, resealable plastic bag.
For a smooth check in, have your vape and any e-liquids ready to be inspected, so you can get through security quickly.
Can You Take a Vape on a Plane?
Yes, you can take a vape on a plane as per the instructions above. However, you are not permitted, under any circumstances, to use your vape while on the plane.
Vaping on a plane comes under the same laws as smoking and, if you do so, you could end up being banned from the airline, paying a significant fine, or even facing criminal charges in the most extreme cases.
Even charging your vape could be considered as ‘using it’. Leave your vape in your bag during your flight and only use it again once you’re out of the destination airport.
It’s also worth noting that some countries, including Argentina and Singapore have an outright ban on vapes. Others, like Australia, have very strict regulations that state it must be part of a prescription.
If you’re going to these places, then it’s not worth taking vapes — airport restrictions and flight rules won’t matter if they’re not even allowed in the country!
Do They Sell Vapes in Airports?
Some airports do sell vaping products, either in Duty Free or at some of the shops in the terminal.
This will vary according to which airport and even which terminal you are at.
To be certain that you won’t be without your vape kit or favourite
e-liquid flavours,
buy them before you leave and place them in your hand luggage.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Vaping at the Airport
The key takeaway for vaping in the airport is that you can’t. You must always use the designated outdoor areas.
It’s also essential that you never use a vape on a plane. Here’s a brief run down of the main things to do and not to do next time someone asks “can you vape in an airport?”.