Holidaymakers are being warned that rules for carrying vapes and power banks vary by airline, with Jet2, Ryanair, and EasyJet each enforcing distinct policies. A key shared rule: these items must never go in hold luggage.
Incidents Involving Lithium Batteries on the Rise
In 2024, UK authorities recorded 316 incidents of devices with lithium batteries detected in hold bags. That figure surged to 643 in 2025. Reports of devices overheating or malfunctioning nearly doubled over the same period, from 123 to 206, underscoring the fire risk.
Jet2's Policy on E-Cigarettes and Power Banks
Markus Lindblad, Head of External & Legal Affairs at Northerner, explained that on Jet2, e-cigarettes are allowed in cabin baggage provided the battery remains installed in the device, its capacity does not exceed 160Wh, and it is individually protected against short-circuiting or accidental activation.
A Jet2 spokesperson stated: "Lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal batteries and power banks that don’t clearly state the watt-hour rating or lithium metal content, or where the watt-hour rating cannot easily be otherwise ascertained, are forbidden." They added: "Small lithium battery-powered vehicles are forbidden as hand luggage or hold baggage. This prohibition applies but is not limited to, air wheels, solo wheels, balance wheels and hover boards."
EasyJet's Guidance for Passengers
An easyJet spokesperson said: "We advise passengers during booking that these cannot be carried in the hold and must be carried in cabin bags. easyJet follows all regulatory requirements from the safety authorities and the safety of our passengers and crew is always our highest priority."
Ryanair's Specific Limits and Packing Rules
Ryanair permits up to 20 spare lithium batteries in total, each not exceeding 100Wh. Spare lithium batteries (including power banks) must be individually protected to prevent short circuits. This can be done by keeping them in original retail packaging, insulating terminals (e.g., taping over exposed terminals), or placing each battery in a separate plastic bag or protective pouch. All spare lithium batteries must be carried in carry-on luggage only.
Power banks may be used to charge personal electronic devices, except during taxi, take-off, and landing, or when instructed otherwise by the crew. Power banks and spare lithium batteries cannot be placed in cabin baggage stored in overhead lockers. They must be carried on the passenger’s person or in the under-seat cabin bag stowed under the seat in front. Devices or batteries over 100Wh are not permitted in the cabin or hold, with the exception of electric wheelchair batteries.
