What Happens if You Put a Vape in Carry-On? Airport Security Rules & Tips Explained

What Happens if You Put a Vape in Carry-On? Airport Security Rules & Tips Explained

Traveling with a vape? If you’re wondering what happens if you put a vape in carry-on luggage, you’re not alone. Navigating the rules for carrying your e-cigarette or vape device through airport security can be a tricky task. Whether you’re traveling with your vape for the first time or you’re a seasoned traveler, knowing the dos and don’ts is crucial to avoid unnecessary delays, fines, or frustration.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down all you need to know about carrying a vape in your carry-on luggage and how to ensure a smooth experience through TSA checkpoints.

1. Can I Bring a Vape in My Carry-On? TSA and Airline Rules

Yes, you can bring a vape in your carry-on, but there are specific guidelines set by the TSA and airlines. Understanding these rules is key to ensuring you don’t face any issues at the airport.

• Vape Devices: All vaping devices must be stored in your carry-on luggage and not in checked bags, due to the risk of lithium-ion battery fires.
• E-liquids: Make sure that your vape juice complies with the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule, which allows you to carry containers no larger than 3.4 ounces, all packed in a quart-sized ziplock bag.

Key Stat: Over 100 million passengers carry vaping devices each year in the United States, with the majority of them passing through security smoothly​

2. Why Can't You Put a Vape in Your Checked Luggage? The Safety Risks

Vapes cannot be stored in checked luggage because of the fire hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries. If a battery malfunctions, it’s much safer for it to occur in the cabin where crew members can handle the situation promptly.

• Stat: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that 40% of all airline fires are due to lithium-ion battery failures​
  Lookah
  . Hence, it’s safer to carry your vape in the cabin.

3. How to Pack Your Vape for Flying: 5 Key Tips

Here’s how to pack your vape securely to ensure it makes it through airport security without issues:

• Empty the Tank: To avoid leaks due to changes in air pressure, ensure your tank is empty before the flight.
• Switch Off the Device: Make sure your vape is turned off to prevent accidental activation.
• Use Battery Protection: Carry your vape’s batteries in separate cases to avoid short-circuiting.
• Hard Shell Case: Protect your device from damage or scratches with a hard shell case.
• Separate Batteries: Always store spare batteries in their protective cases to keep them safe​
  Keystone Vape
  .

4. What Happens During Security Screening? A Quick Breakdown

When you reach the TSA checkpoint, you'll likely be asked to take your vape out of your carry-on for further screening. This is the same as when you need to remove laptops or large electronics from your bag.

• Additional Screening: Your device will likely show up on the X-ray scan, and TSA officers will ask to see it. Make sure to remove it from your bag and place it in a separate bin for inspection​
  Christophe Garon
  .

5. Can You Vape Inside Airports or On the Plane? What You Should Know

While you can bring a vape in your carry-on, it’s important to know where you’re allowed to use it:

• Airports: Vaping is prohibited in most terminal areas, but many airports have designated smoking areas where vaping is allowed. More than 50% of U.S. airports have specific areas where you can vape​
  Christophe Garon
  .
• On the Plane: Vaping is strictly prohibited on all flights. This is enforced by nearly all airlines for passenger safety, and breaking this rule could result in fines or removal from the plane​
  Christophe Garon
  .

Conclusion: Travel Smart, Travel Safe with Your Vape

So, what happens if you put a vape in carry-on luggage? The short answer is, as long as you follow the correct procedures and pack your vape safely, there should be no issues at all. By ensuring that your vape is turned off, stored properly, and that your vape juice follows TSA guidelines, you’ll breeze through airport security with no worries.

Safe travels, and enjoy your flight knowing your vape is safely packed in your carry-on.

References:

1. TSA - What Can I Bring? – TSA Website (ID: 1)
2. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) - Fires in Commercial Airliners – NFPA Website (ID: 2)
3. CDC - E-Cigarette/Vaping Use-Related Lung Injury (EVALI) Report – CDC Website (ID: 3)
4. US Government - TSA Rules for Carrying Batteries on Flights – US Government Website (ID: 4)
5. American Lung Association - The Dangers of Vaping – ALA Website (ID: 5)