Millions of Brits are preparing to fly abroad for the summer season, and with approximately 5.5 million UK adults vaping, many are left wondering about the rules before boarding the plane.
All UK airlines follow aviation safety rules that classify vapes and e-cigarettes as lithium battery devices, which are not allowed in the aircraft hold. But does that mean you cannot take your vape on the plane at all?
UK Aviation Vape Rules
UK aviation rules, set by the Civil Aviation Authority and aligned with international safety standards, are the same across all airlines. Vapes must go in hand luggage only, must be protected from accidental activation, and must comply with lithium battery safety limits. E-liquids must also follow the standard cabin liquids rule, meaning containers must be 100ml or less and placed in a clear plastic bag. Spare batteries or power banks must also be carried in hand luggage, not checked baggage.
British Airways Rules
With British Airways, vapes are allowed in hand luggage but must not be placed in checked baggage. The device must be switched off and protected so it cannot accidentally activate during the flight. British Airways also follows strict cabin safety rules, so vaping is not permitted onboard at any time. E-liquids must comply with the standard liquids restriction of 100ml per container.
easyJet Rules
easyJet allows vapes only in cabin baggage, not in the hold. Devices must be carried safely and kept switched off during travel. The airline applies the same UK-wide safety rules regarding lithium batteries and liquids, and vaping is strictly prohibited during the flight, including in aircraft toilets.
Jet2 Rules
Jet2 also requires vapes to be carried in hand luggage only. They are not permitted in checked baggage due to battery safety restrictions. Passengers must ensure devices are protected from accidental activation, and vaping onboard is not allowed under any circumstances. Jet2 follows standard aviation rules on lithium batteries and cabin liquids.
Ryanair Rules
Ryanair permits vapes in hand luggage only, with strict enforcement of lithium battery rules. Devices must meet safety limits and be stored securely to prevent activation. As with all other airlines, vaping is not allowed onboard the aircraft. Ryanair also applies standard restrictions on e-liquid volumes in line with UK and EU cabin baggage rules.
What to Avoid When Travelling with a Vape
David Phillips from Vape Superstore has shared some things travellers taking a vape with them should avoid.
DON'T: Exceed 100ml in E-liquids
You can bring e-liquids with you on a plane in your carry-on luggage, so long as the total amount you carry doesn't exceed 100ml and is properly sealed in a clear plastic bag. You can pack any additional e-liquid in your checked-in luggage. It's a good idea to seal these in clear plastic bags as the cargo hold is pressurised, which can cause sealed bottles of liquid to leak.
DON'T: Vape During the Flight
You must not vape during a flight. Vaping on a plane falls under the same laws as smoking and you could face severe penalties and fines if you do so. Whilst rules may differ regarding how to transport your vape and where you can use it, depending on the airport and airline, using a vape on an aeroplane is strictly prohibited worldwide; this includes disposables. It is also not a good idea to risk vaping in the toilet, as airlines have installed detectors that will pick up not only cigarette smoke but e-cigarette vapour as well.
DON'T: Charge Your Vape In-Flight
The best thing to do is to ensure your vape is fully charged prior to your flight, and that you don't run it down before boarding the plane. Check the airport's online policy to find out if, and where, you can charge your device pre-flight. Charging your vape in-flight could be misconstrued as use and, given the risk of penalties, is of little benefit since you cannot use your vape when flying.
