Can You Take Vape Liquid on a Plane in the UK?
Nicolas Paterson
17/02/2025 • 5 min readCan You Take Vape Juice on a Plane Through UK airports?
Yes, but you must follow the liquid restriction rules when packing it in your carry-on hand luggage. E-liquids must be stored in 100ml containers within a clear plastic bag as part of the standard liquid rules for hand luggage. If you need to bring a larger quantity than 100ml, make sure you pack all e-liquids in your checked luggage.
There’s nothing more frustrating than being unsure about airport security rules when you're travelling with vape gear! So knowing how much vape liquid you can take on a plane and where to pack it can save you from unnecessary hassle at airport security. Today, we’ll cover everything you need to know about taking vape liquid on a plane, including UK airport regulations, how much vape liquid you can take abroad, and whether you should pack it in your hand luggage or checked luggage, and ultimately whether you’ll have to leave any e-liquid you were planning to take abroad behind.
Understanding Vape Liquid and Airport Security Regulations
Can You Take Vape Liquid Through Airport Security? Can Vape Liquid Go in Hold Luggage?
You can take vape liquid through airport security in the UK, but there are specific rules you must follow. Ensure the bottles are well-sealed and packed securely to prevent any spills during the flight. Emptying vape tanks before packing can prevent leaks caused by changes in cabin pressure. Just like all liquids, vape juice is subject to the UK’s hand luggage liquid restrictions, meaning:
- Each bottle must be 100ml or less.
- All bottles must fit within a 1-litre resealable plastic bag.
- The bag must be placed separately in the tray during security screening.
How Much Vape Liquid Can You Take on a Plane?
The total amount of vape liquid you can take in your hand luggage depends on how many bottles you can fit into a single 1-litre plastic bag (each passenger is assigned a single 1 litre bag for carry-on). This usually means you can carry around 5-10 bottles of 10ml e-liquid or a couple of larger 50ml shortfills, provided they meet the 100ml limit per bottle. This limit is part of the general rules for liquids on a plane.
If you need more liquid for your trip, you can pack additional e-liquid in your checked luggage without any volume restrictions (but with some precautions—more on this below).
Stock Up on Airline-Compatible 10ml and 100ml E-Liquid – Shop Now at Freesmo!Do Vapes Need to Go in the Liquid Bag?
When traveling with vape juices and e-liquids, it’s crucial to understand the rules regarding the liquid bag. According to UK airport security regulations, all carry-on e-liquids must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag for screening. This bag should be no larger than 1 litre and must be presented separately during security checks. However, your vape device itself does not need to be in the liquid bag. To facilitate a smooth screening process, pack your vape device in a separate, easily accessible part of your hand luggage. This way, you can quickly present it if required by security personnel.
Disposable Vapes and Airport Security
Disposable vapes are a convenient option for many travelers, but it’s important to know how to pack them correctly. You can carry disposable vapes in your carry-on luggage, but they must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag along with other liquids. Remember, disposable vapes contain lithium batteries, which are subject to specific regulations.
Always check with your airline for their policies on transporting disposable vapes and lithium batteries to ensure compliance and avoid any issues at the airport.
Packing Your Vape Liquid Correctly
Checked baggage (also known as hold luggage) can store larger quantities of e-liquid and you can place any amount of vape liquid in your hold luggage without being restricted by the 100ml per bottle rule. However, you should take precautions to avoid leaks due to air pressure changes:
- Adhere to vaping rules of the country you’re flying to. This will ensure you can keep all e-liquid at the other end!
- Seal bottles tightly to prevent leaks.
- Store them in a sealed plastic bag as an extra layer of protection.
- Keep them upright inside a toiletry bag or a secure compartment in your suitcase.
Additionally, it is important to follow safety precautions when storing electronic cigarettes in hold luggage to prevent any potential hazards.
Taking Your Vape Device on a Plane
While we’ve covered vape liquid, you also need to be aware of e cigarette and vape device regulations.
Airlines and security agencies do not allow e-cigarettes, vape devices, or batteries in checked luggage due to fire hazards. You must carry your e-cigarette or vape device in hand luggage and ensure it is turned off during the flight. Additionally, vape batteries should be carried in hand luggage to comply with safety regulations.
Airline-Specific Rules for Vape Devices
When travelling with a vaping device, it’s essential to be aware of the specific rules set out by the airline that you’re flying with. Here are a few airline-specific rules for vape devices:
- British Airways: Vape devices are allowed in carry-on luggage, but must be turned off and not used during the flight.
- EasyJet: Vape devices are permitted in carry-on luggage, but must be turned off and not used during the flight.
- RyanAir: Vape devices are allowed in carry-on luggage, but must be turned off and not used during the flight. However, RyanAir does allow the use of their own smokeless cigarettes on board.
- Virgin Atlantic: Vape devices are permitted in carry-on luggage, but must be turned off and not used during the flight.
Additional Tips for Traveling with Vape Liquid
- Only carry what you need – Avoid overpacking e-liquid in your hand luggage. If you need more, store the rest in your checked luggage.
- Check airline policies – Some airlines may have stricter rules on carrying vape products.
- Empty your vape tank – Due to cabin pressure, a full vape tank may leak during the flight.
- Know the rules at your destination – Some countries have strict laws regarding vaping. Always check the regulations before you fly.
- Pack disposable vapes in hand luggage – Disposable vapes should be packed in your hand luggage. Check airline-specific policies regarding their transport, especially concerning lithium batteries and e-liquid.
Using Vape Devices During Flights
Using vape devices during flights is strictly prohibited. Vaping is not allowed on any commercial airline, and passengers caught vaping may face severe penalties. Vaping is permitted in designated smoking areas at most airports. Always check with your airline and the airport for their specific rules and regulations regarding vape devices and e-liquids to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
- Vaping on a plane: Is strictly prohibited and may result in severe penalties.
- Vaping in airports: Is usually allowed in designated smoking areas, but it’s always best to check with the airport for their specific rules and regulations.
By planning ahead and packing your vape gear correctly, you can avoid unnecessary issues at airport security and enjoy a hassle-free journey. Safe travels and happy vaping!
Vaping Regulations Around the World
Vaping regulations can vary widely from one country to another, so it’s essential to be informed about the laws at your destination. For instance, while the United Kingdom has relatively relaxed laws regarding vaping, other countries may have stricter regulations. Some places may even ban the use of e-cigarettes entirely. Before you travel, research the vaping laws and regulations of your destination country. This will help you avoid any legal issues and ensure that you can enjoy your trip without any unexpected surprises.
Pre-Flight Checklist for Vapers
To ensure a hassle-free travel experience with your vape device, follow this pre-flight checklist:
- Check Airline Policies: Verify your airline’s rules on carrying vapes, e-liquids, and lithium batteries.
- Pack E-Liquids Properly: Place all e-liquids in a clear, resealable plastic bag and ensure they comply with the 100ml per bottle rule.
- Secure Your Vape Device: Make sure your vape device is turned off and stored in a protective case within your hand luggage.
- Know Your Destination’s Laws! Research the vaping laws and regulations of your destination country to avoid any legal issues when you land.