Traveling with vaping equipment requires planning and awareness. Different countries have varying regulations, airlines have specific rules, and being unprepared can lead to confiscated devices or legal trouble. This guide covers everything you need to know.
Before You Travel
Research Your Destination
Different countries have vastly different approaches to vaping:
Completely banned: Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, India (among others) prohibit vaping entirely. Penalties can include fines, device confiscation, or even imprisonment.
Restricted: Some countries allow possession but prohibit sales, or restrict where you can vape.
Fully legal: Many countries allow vaping with regulations similar to cigarettes.
Always research current laws before traveling. Regulations change frequently, and what was legal last year may not be today.
Choose Travel-Friendly Devices
For travel, consider:
- Compact pod systems - Small, simple, less likely to draw attention
- Disposable vapes - No charging concerns, easily replaceable
- Pen-style batteries - Familiar form factor, straightforward operation
Leave complex mods and large setups at home unless absolutely necessary.
Packing Your Vape Gear
Carry-On Requirements
Critical rule: Vaping devices with lithium batteries MUST go in carry-on luggage. Most airlines prohibit lithium batteries in checked bags due to fire risk.
Packing Checklist
Carry-On Bag:
- Vaping device(s)
- Spare batteries (in protective cases)
- Charger and cables
- Small e-liquid bottles (under 100ml, in clear bag with other liquids)
Checked Bag (if needed):
- Extra e-liquid bottles over 100ml
- Spare coils and accessories
- Cleaning supplies
E-Liquid Restrictions
E-liquids follow standard liquid restrictions:
- Containers must be 100ml or smaller for carry-on
- Must fit in a single clear, resealable quart-sized bag
- Larger bottles can go in checked luggage
Pro tip: Half-empty tanks can leak due to pressure changes. Empty tanks before flying or expect potential mess.
At the Airport
Security Screening
- Remove vape devices from bags for X-ray if requested
- Be prepared to explain what the device is
- Keep devices easily accessible for inspection
- Don't try to hide devices—this raises suspicion
Designated Vaping Areas
Most airports prohibit vaping except in designated smoking areas (if they exist). Many airports have no vaping areas at all.
- Never vape in terminals, gates, or restrooms
- Check if your airport has smoking lounges
- Some international airports have outdoor smoking areas
On the Aircraft
Vaping on planes is strictly prohibited. This is true for all airlines worldwide. Attempting to vape on a plane can result in:
- Fines
- Flight diversion
- Arrest upon landing
- Permanent airline bans
Don't even consider it. Keep devices stored and off during flights.
Critical Warning: Cannabis and CBD
Never travel internationally with any cannabis products, including:
- THC cartridges or flower
- CBD products (even if legal at home)
- Delta-8 or other cannabinoids
- Any cannabis-related paraphernalia
Many countries have severe drug penalties. Even CBD, which is legal in many places, can be illegal or contain trace THC that triggers problems elsewhere.
The consequences can be catastrophic. Brittney Griner's arrest in Russia for cannabis cartridges demonstrates how seriously some countries treat these offenses. No vaping session is worth years in foreign prison.
Clean your devices thoroughly before traveling to remove any trace residue if you've ever used them with cannabis products.
At Your Destination
Finding Vape Supplies
Before arriving, research:
- Are vape shops legal and available?
- Can you buy e-liquid locally?
- What nicotine strengths are available?
In some countries, finding supplies may be difficult or impossible. Bring enough to last your trip.
Local Vaping Etiquette
- Observe where locals smoke/vape
- Ask before vaping in shared spaces
- Be extra cautious in unfamiliar environments
- When in doubt, don't vape
Storing Your Gear
- Keep devices away from extreme heat (beach, car interiors)
- Store e-liquid in cool, dark places
- Don't leave batteries in direct sunlight
- Keep everything secure from theft
Country-Specific Notes
While regulations change frequently, here are general categories:
Generally Vape-Friendly
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Canada
- Most of Western Europe
Restricted but Possible
- Australia (prescription required for nicotine)
- Japan (nicotine liquid restricted)
- Many countries with sales restrictions
Exercise Extreme Caution
- Thailand
- Singapore
- UAE
- Most of Southeast Asia
Always verify current regulations before traveling.
The Travel Checklist
Pre-Trip
- Research destination vaping laws
- Verify airline policies
- Choose travel-appropriate devices
- Clean devices thoroughly
- Stock up on supplies for trip duration
Packing
- Devices in carry-on
- Batteries in protective cases
- E-liquid under 100ml in clear bag
- Charger and cables
- Extra coils
Airport
- Device easily accessible for security
- Know designated vaping areas (if any)
- Device stored and off during flight
Destination
- Follow local laws and customs
- Know where to find supplies if needed
- Keep devices secure and protected
Final Thoughts
Traveling with your vape is entirely possible with proper preparation. Research your destination, follow airline rules, pack appropriately, and exercise common sense.
The key principle: when uncertain, err on the side of caution. Missing a vaping opportunity is far better than facing legal trouble in a foreign country.
Safe travels!
Related: Beginner's Guide to Vaping