Can You Take Liquid Nicotine or Vape Refills on Planes?

The question of whether you can bring liquid nicotine or vape refills on an airplane is a common one, especially as more people opt for vaping as an alternative to traditional smoking. This article aims to provide clear and concise answers to this query, covering key points such as restrictions, regulations, and practical tips for air travel.

United States

In the United States, liquid nicotine and vape refills are legal products. Therefore, they can be carried on board as part of your carry-on luggage. However, there are a few important points to consider:

Ensure that the bottle holding the liquid nicotine or vape refills is 3 ounces (approximately 90 milliliters) or less. Vape devices, including those with refillable tanks, must be kept in carry-on luggage and the battery must be removed and placed in the battery compartment of the device to avoid any potential issues. Avoid exceeding the 1 liter (approximately 33.8 ounces) limit for total liquid volume in carry-on luggage to comply with TSA regulations.

International Flights

For international flights, it is crucial to be aware of the laws and regulations of the destination country. Different countries have varying rules and restrictions regarding liquid nicotine and vape refills:

Japan

In Japan, the possession, sale, and consumption of nicotine are illegal. Therefore, liquid nicotine and vape refills are not permitted, and you will need to check the specific regulations before traveling to Japan.

Australia

Australia has strict laws regarding nicotine products. Liquid nicotine and vape refills are illegal and cannot be brought into the country. It's essential to check the current regulations before attempting to import these items.

Canada

Canada’s laws are more lenient regarding nicotine products, but there are still some restrictions. Vape devices are legal to possess and carry on board, but liquid nicotine and vape refills must be listed on customs declarations and may have specific labeling requirements.

United Kingdom and Europe

In the UK and many European countries, the rules are governed by the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). Importing and carrying liquid nicotine and vape refills is possible, but there are specific labeling and packaging requirements. It’s important to check the exact regulations of the specific country you are visiting.

Global Airlines and Carriers

While many airlines do not prohibit the use of vape devices or e-cigarettes in the cabin, there are a few key points to be aware of:

Check-in restrictions: Lithium-ion batteries in vape devices or e-cigarettes cannot be checked in as carry-on or checked luggage. They must be carried in the cabin. Metadata detectors: Vape devices will typically set off metal detectors at airport security. Hand luggage restrictions: Liquid nicotine and vape refills in hand luggage must be in bottles smaller than 100 milliliters and the total volume of all liquids should not exceed 1 liter.

Practical Tips for Traveling with Vape Devices and Liquid Nicotine

To make your travel experience smoother and to avoid any potential trouble, consider the following tips:

Remove the battery from your vape device and place it in a special container designed for lithium-ion batteries to prevent overheating and potential explosions. Pack the vape device in a resealable plastic bag to prevent any leakage due to changes in cabin pressure. Clear out your vaporizer device, or at least its tank, to avoid any leakage during the flight. Turn off the device and disconnect it from the charging system when not in use. Avoid charging your vape devices on the plane to prevent any risks associated with overheated batteries.

Further Reading

For more detailed information on traveling with e-cigarettes and vaping on planes, refer to the article Can You Bring An E-Cigarette On A Plane?