Can you take vapes on a plane in Australiaa?

Many of our customers have reached out to ask us a simple question – Can you take vapes on a plane? Fortunately, The process of flying with your vape is relatively simple, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind so you don’t get stung by a fine or need to rustle through your bags during the already arduous check-in process.

Flying and vapes in Australia: rules and regulations

For prescription vapes, patients are advised to carry with them a copy of their prescription, have their vapes in original labelled packaging if possible, and carry no more than three months supply at the maximum dose.

The majority of both international and Australiaan airlines allow you to carry your vape on a plane; however, vaping and charging your vape on an aircraft is strictly prohibited internationally. 

Planes are fitted with smoke detectors that don’t differentiate between vapour and smoke, so you should not vape on a flight as you could face significant fines or legal action. If you’re worried about being uncomfortable without nicotine on a long-haul flight, it’s a good idea to have an alternative form of nicotine replacement on hand such as nicotine gum or lozenges.

Australiaan and international regulations prohibit storing vape batteries in checked bags due to concerns of fire risks in the cargo hold. Potential risk factors are minimised by having your vape battery in the pressurised cabin and close by – so you or the cabin crew can respond to any unexpected event.

You can put other vape hardware such as liquid, cartridges or atomisers in checked luggage.

Can I vape at the airport?

Each airport has different rules regarding where you can vape. Many airports will only allow vaping in smoking areas; vaping technology is still relatively new, and airport policies on vaping are often updated or tweaked as local regulations evolve.

A good rule of thumb is to keep your vaping to designated smoking or vaping areas and ask airport staff if you’re unsure. 

Tips for when you take vapes on a plane

Airline rules and regulations around taking your vape on a plane are about safety. Some of these steps may seem annoying, but because the majority of vape devices contain lithium-ion batteries, they must be handled with care on flights.

Store all your vape equipment in your carry-on luggage

Vape batteries are not allowed in checked bags. To save yourself from unpacking your main luggage at check-in, make sure you store your vape device in your carry-on.

Deconstruct and disconnect your vape device

Disconnect your atomiser and cartridge from your vape device or battery. Make sure all pieces are stored in a safe, padded section of your bag and ensure no metal pieces or batteries can touch each other.

Make sure your vape equipment is easily accessible

Security will usually want to check your vape at domestic and international airports. Have your vape equipment easily accessible to ensure security checks are simple and stress free – zip lock bags are great for this.

Tips for flying with vape juice or e-liquid

There are specific rules around flying with liquids and gels in carry-on luggage. If you intend to take your vape liquid on board with you, follow these tips to avoid any complications.

Store vape liquids in a zip-lock

Many airlines require liquids (from toiletries to vape juice) to be stored in a single clear plastic bag. It’s a good idea to put your vape liquid in another zip lock bag to avoid leaks

Empty your vape tank before you fly

When flying the pressurised cabin may cause your vape pod or tank to leak. It’s best to empty your vape before you fly or make sure your tank is less than half full

Only pack what you need

Vape liquid can be stored in your checked luggage. It’s best to only take a small bottle on board with you and wherever your e-liquid is stored, keep it in ziplock bags to avoid leaks that could ruin your luggage or leave you with no juice for your holiday

Can you take vapes on a plane – Final pieces of advice 

If you are travelling for a long time, or internationally, we suggest you don’t pack your entire range of vape flavours. If you run out of vape juice, they may be available elsewhere. Nonetheless, it is best to check local vaping regulations and availability before you travel.

Lastly, travelling, especially if it’s for pleasure, can be a trigger to slip into old habits of smoking cigarettes. The best way to avoid this is to make sure you’re prepared and have safely stored your vape device for air travel – with these tips and a little persistence, you’ll be able to avoid smoking and enjoy your travels.

For more detail on regulations pertaining to taking your vape on a plane, please see Smart Traveller.