Can You Take Disposable Vapes on a Plane in the UK?

We all know the rules about smoking and taking cigarettes on planes in the UK, but how clued up are you on vaping regulations? Given that vaping is still a relatively new market, rules may be subject to change.

For now, though, we’ve taken all your burning questions and answered them below. 

Can I Take Disposable Vapes on a Plane?

The first and most important thing to note is that everything stated in this article is correct at the time of writing. However, rules and regulations may change anytime, so we highly suggest checking for the most up-to-date guidance closer to your travel date.

Now that’s out of the way, what are the current rules for an adventurous traveller? The simple answer is yes - with restrictions. That's because vapes contain lithium-ion batteries, which are viewed as a fire risk. With that being the case, you can only take a vape on a flight if it’s in your hand luggage. Under no circumstances can a vape be in your checked luggage.

Another thing to note is that any liquid used for the vape will count towards the 100ml rule and therefore need to be taken through security in a clear bag.

How Many Disposable Vapes Can You Take on a Plane?

While most airline rules tend to be standardised across airlines, a few areas are entirely in the airline's control. Examples of those areas are the size of your cabin luggage or the weight of your hold luggage. That’s why it can be so annoying when you find out that a suitcase that was the right size for one airline is unacceptable for another!

The same rule applies regarding how many vapes are allowed on board the plane. If you want to take more than one disposable vape on a plane, the best thing to do is check with the airline(s) you are flying with. That said, the average seems to be around 15-20 per person. As long as you’re not taking a bag full, you should be okay to bring multiple vapes onto a plane - within the liquid regulations.

Can You Vape on the Plane?

No. Vaping on planes falls under the same category as smoking on a plane: it’s impermissible under any circumstance. While each airline may have different rules surrounding where to keep your e-cigarette (if you are allowed to carry it), this rule is universal: no smoking or vaping on the plane.

But given that vaping differs from smoking, you wouldn’t be alone in wondering why you can’t vape on a plane. Here are a few reasons:

• The vapour from a vape can easily be mistaken for smoke - something cabin crew are constantly on the lookout for, given the seriousness of the matter. Too many people vaping might distract from a genuine smoke alert and cause real danger to the flight crew and passengers.
• Due to the sensitivity of the smoke and fire detectors onboard (for which we should all be thankful!), vapour can sometimes set off the alarms. Keep that in mind next time you feel tempted to take a little puff in the bathroom!
• While most vapes smell much more pleasant than cigarette smoke, it’s still a social nuisance - especially for those that don’t smoke or vape). Respect for your fellow travellers is key.

Can You Vape in the Airport?

As a general rule of thumb, most airports do not allow smoking or vaping from the moment you enter the airport to the moment you leave it - by which point you should be on a plane or at your final destination. There are, however, some exceptions to this rule. 

Some airports will have designated smoking areas or rooms within the airport - often past security - which permit travellers to smoke and vape. For others, it’s limited to outside the terminal building. The best way to find out is to research the airports you visit.

Should You Bring Your Disposable Vapes On A Flight?

Whether or not you bring your vape onboard is entirely down to you - as long as you follow the airline rules. We also recommend considering the rules and regulations of the country you are visiting. As we’ve outlined, most UK airlines will allow you to bring your vape onboard in your hand luggage, but is it worth it if your destination does not allow it? Here are some countries with strict laws against vape use:

• Thailand
• Brazil
• Colombia
• Qatar
• Australia
• Singapore

Final Thoughts

Most UK airlines will allow you to take vapes on a plane. However, there are some strict rules to follow if you do. For example, your vape(s) must be in your hand luggage, not your hold luggage. You absolutely cannot smoke the vape while onboard the plane. And, in most airports, you are not allowed to use it at all whilst inside the terminal.

The best advice would be to check with the airline(s) you are travelling with closer to your point of travel. On top of that, ensure you check the rules of the country you are travelling to, as well. If you do that, you should be fine. And if you're looking for flavorful vapes to toss in your hand luggage, WAKA Vape has a wide selection to join you on your next adventure. Bon voyage!