The Right Way to Pack Your Disposable Vape for Air Travel

You have booked your flight; your luggage is packed and you are all set for departure. There remains, however, just one of many contemporary travel dilemmas: What should you do about your disposable vape? Are you allowed to take it with you on an airplane? If you are permitted to take your vape with you, then where will you put it?

Fortunately, you can take your disposable vape on an airplane. The bad news is that you will need to pack it properly. Failure to follow proper packing procedures may result in monetary penalties, loss of possession of your product, or even be denied access to board your flight.

Disposable Vapes Travel Policy – The Gold Rule

The TSA (Transportation Security Administration), along with all International Aviation Authorities, are very strict when it comes to lithium-ion battery travel. Disposable vapes do contain lithium-ion batteries so it is imperative to store your vape in your carry-on bag or personal item.

Why? Because your lithium-ion battery vape could be damaged while in checked baggage due to extreme temperature and/or air pressure changes in the cargo hold. A damaged battery can overheat and ignite, which could lead to a fire. It would also be hard to detect and put out during flight in the cargo area. Because there are people and smoke detectors in the cabin area of a commercial airliner, any problem with a vape could be detected and quickly taken care of by the crew of the aircraft.

Packing Your Disposable Vape Smart – Steps to Follow

Once you know how to pack your vape (in your carry-on bag), follow the steps below to help avoid any issues with your vape, and to help you get through airport security smoothly.

1. Prevent Accidental Firing

The last thing you want to happen is for your vape to accidentally turn on in your bag and burn the coil or create a vapor cloud. Here’s how to prevent that from happening:

  • Turn Off Your Device: If your device has an on/off switch, make sure to flip it.
  • Cap or Cover Your Mouth Piece: Some disposable vapes come with a small rubber cap for the mouth piece. If you don't have yours, a piece of tape is fine.
  • Store It Safely: Don't just throw it loosely in the back of your bag, it may get jostled and possibly fire.

2. Organizing for Smooth Security Check

Even though you don't have to keep your vape in an electronic storage bag, keeping it organized and ready to go can save you some time when going through security.

The Electronic Storage Bag is the Best Option:

  • The easiest way to keep your vape organized and ready to present if you're asked is to put it in the same clear electronic storage bag you use for your phone, laptop, etc.
  • Don't Hide It: Burying it deep in a tight-packed bag may bring attention to it if it shows up on the x-ray, resulting in a lengthy bag search.

3. Leakage (Considered Especially for Flights):

Air pressure in the cabin may cause your vape to leak. Keep the rest of your items safe by storing your vape as follows:

  • Store Upright: If possible, store your vape in a pen slot in your bag or in a separate compartment where it won't tip.
  • Use a Sealable Bag: As a precautionary measure, consider placing your vape in a small Ziploc or sealable plastic bag. This will contain any leakage.

E-Liquid/Pod Containment Rules

Same as above. Spare pods/cartridges, or e-liquid containers containing nicotine or THC oil must comply with the TSA’s liquids rules.

  • Liquids Rule: Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per container.
  • Quart-Sized Liquid Container: All liquid containers must fit comfortably in a clear, quart-sized, resealable bag.

As most e-liquid containers and pods are less than 3.4 ounces, you should have no problem putting them in your liquids bag.

Important: Remember Absolutely No Vaping Onboard

There can be no emphasis placed on this point. Vaping anywhere on the airplane (cabin, lavatory) is strictly forbidden by federal law. Lavatories have extremely sensitive smoke detectors to vapor. Attempting to vape on an airplane can result in serious consequences such as thousands of dollars in fines and possibly a ban from flying that airline.

Your Pre-Flight Vape Checklist

  • Your vape is in your carry-on or personal item (not in checked baggage).
  • Your device is turned off or covered to prevent accidental firing.
  • Your vape is safely contained in an electronic storage bag or sealable bag to prevent leakage.
  • All e-liquid/pods are in your quart-sized liquids bag.
  • You comprehend that vaping onboard an airplane is against the law.

Follow these easy steps to confidently pack your disposable vape and complete your journey without any stress from TSA and airport regulations.