Taking your vape abroad sounds simple until it isn't. Different countries have wildly different rules, airlines have their own policies, and showing up unprepared can mean losing your device or worse. Here's how to avoid all that.
Before You Travel
Research Your Destination
Countries handle vaping very differently:
Completely banned: Thailand, Singapore, Brazil, and India (among others) don't allow vaping at all. You could face fines, confiscation, or jail time.
Restricted: Some places let you carry a vape but ban sales, or limit where you can use it.
Fully legal: Many countries treat vaping like cigarettes with similar regulations.
Look up current laws before you go. These rules change all the time. What was fine last year might get you in trouble today.
Choose Travel-Friendly Devices
Think small and simple:
- Compact pod systems - Easy to carry, won't raise eyebrows
- Disposable vapes - No charging worries, easy to replace
- Pen-style 510 batteries - Familiar shape, simple operation
Leave the big mods at home unless you really need them.
Packing Your Vape Gear
Carry-On Requirements
Here's the non-negotiable part: vaping devices with lithium batteries go in your carry-on. Period. Most airlines ban them from checked bags because of fire risk.
Packing Checklist
Carry-On Bag:
- Your vape device(s)
- Spare batteries (in protective cases)
- Charger and cables
- Small e-liquid bottles (under 100ml, in your clear liquids bag)
Checked Bag (if needed):
- Extra e-liquid bottles over 100ml
- Spare coils and accessories
- Cleaning supplies
E-Liquid Restrictions
E-liquids follow the same liquid rules as everything else:
- Containers must be 100ml or smaller for carry-on
- They need to fit in a single clear, resealable quart-sized bag
- Larger bottles can go in checked luggage
Quick tip: half-empty tanks can leak when cabin pressure changes. Either empty your tank before flying or be ready for a mess.
At the Airport
Security Screening
- Pull your vape out for X-ray if security asks
- Be ready to explain what it is
- Keep devices where you can reach them easily
- Don't hide anything. That just makes you look suspicious.
Designated Vaping Areas
Most airports don't let you vape except in designated smoking areas, and many don't have those at all.
- Never vape in terminals, gates, or restrooms
- Check if your airport has smoking lounges
- Some international airports have outdoor smoking spots
On the Aircraft
You cannot vape on any plane. Every airline bans it. Try it and you might face:
- Fines
- Flight diversion
- Arrest when you land
- A permanent ban from that airline
Not worth it. Keep your device stored and turned off during the flight.
Critical Warning: Cannabis and CBD
Do not bring any cannabis products across international borders. None.
- THC cartridges or flower
- CBD products (even if legal where you live)
- Delta-8 or other cannabinoids
- Any cannabis-related paraphernalia
Drug penalties in some countries are severe. CBD that's perfectly legal at home might be illegal elsewhere, or contain enough trace THC to cause problems.
The consequences can ruin your life. Remember Brittney Griner's arrest in Russia for cannabis cartridges. Some countries take this seriously in ways that seem extreme. No vape is worth years in foreign prison.
Clean your devices thoroughly before traveling if you've ever used them with cannabis products. Remove all residue.
At Your Destination
Finding Vape Supplies
Before you arrive, figure out:
- Are vape shops legal and available?
- Can you buy e-liquid locally?
- What nicotine strengths are sold there?
Some countries make finding supplies difficult or impossible. Bring enough to last your whole trip.
Local Vaping Etiquette
- Watch where locals smoke or vape
- Ask before vaping in shared spaces
- Be extra careful in unfamiliar places
- If you're unsure, don't vape
Storing Your Gear
- Keep devices out of extreme heat (beach bags, hot cars)
- Store e-liquid somewhere cool and dark
- Don't leave batteries in direct sunlight
- Keep everything secure from theft
Country-Specific Notes
Rules change constantly, but here's a rough breakdown:
Generally Vape-Friendly
- United Kingdom
- United States
- Canada
- Most of Western Europe
Restricted but Possible
- Australia (you need a prescription for nicotine)
- Japan (nicotine liquid is restricted)
- Many countries with sales restrictions
Exercise Extreme Caution
- Thailand
- Singapore
- UAE
- Most of Southeast Asia
Always check current regulations before you go. For US destinations, see our guide on states banning vapes to know what restrictions you might encounter.
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
You can absolutely travel with your vape. Just do your homework. Know the rules where you're going, follow airline policies, pack smart, and use common sense.
When you're not sure about something, play it safe. Skipping a vape break beats dealing with legal problems in another country.
Have a good trip.
Related: Beginner's Guide to Vaping