If you are planning on traveling with your vape, it’s important to know that while most places embrace vaping as a useful quit smoking tool, others impose strict regulations or even outright ban the use and sale of anything vaping related. In this post we will cover what places you can travel with your vape and what places we would not recommend as it could result in confiscation of your products, even fines and on rare occasions even imprisonment.
Vaping Laws in Different Regions
United Kingdom
- Legal and regulated
- Vaping is encouraged as a quit smoking tool by public health organisations such as the NHS.
- E-liquids are restricted to a max of 20mg nicotine strength, disposable vapes are banned.
- the advertisement of vaping products is not allowed.
- Public vaping restrictions depend on local policies.
European Union
- Legal with restrictions
- Governed by the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), which limits nicotine strength to a max of 20mg and restricts e-liquid bottle sizes.
- Some countries have additional restrictions, such as flavour bans or packaging regulations, additional taxes may apply when purchasing liquids.
- Public vaping rules vary by country.
United States
- Legal but heavily regulated
- The FDA regulates vaping products under the Tobacco Control Act.
- Some states have flavor bans or age restrictions beyond the federal minimum of 21 years.
- Online sales are restricted in some states.
- Public vaping restrictions depend on state and local laws.
Canada
- Legal with restrictions
- Nicotine vaping products are regulated under the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act.
- Advertising is restricted, and nicotine strength is limited to a max of 20mg.
- Some provinces have additional restrictions, such as flavor bans or display regulations.
Australia
- Prescription required for nicotine e-liquids
- Nicotine vaping products can only be legally obtained with a doctor’s prescription.
- Some states impose stricter regulations, including bans on retail sales.
- Non-nicotine vaping products are legal but regulated.
New Zealand
- Legal and encouraged as a quit smoking tool
- The government supports vaping as a way to quit smoking.
- Flavors are allowed, but advertising is restricted.
- Some public vaping restrictions apply.
Asia
- Varied regulations
- Japan: Nicotine-containing e-liquids are banned, but non-nicotine vaping is legal.
- China: Home to most of the world’s vape manufacturers, but domestic regulations are tightening.
- India: Vaping is banned entirely, with penalties for sales and possession.
- Thailand: Strict vaping ban with severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Middle East & Africa
- Highly restrictive in some areas
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): Vaping is legal and regulated, with restrictions on advertising and sales.
- Saudi Arabia: Legal but tightly controlled.
- South Africa: Vaping is legal but may soon face tougher regulations.
- Egypt: Vaping is legal, but as regulations are new, can be hard to access if you need to stock up.
Latin America
- Mostly restricted or banned
- Mexico: Vaping is completely banned, even for personal use.
- Brazil: Vaping is banned, including sales and imports.
- Argentina: Sale of products is banned, although personal use is tolerated with
- restrictions.
- Chile: Legal but regulated, with restrictions on advertising and sales.
Key Takeaways
- Always check local laws before traveling to avoid fines or legal trouble.
- Regulations can change quickly, so staying informed is essential.
- Countries with bans or strict regulations may still have black markets, but purchasing from unauthorized sources is risky.
- Public vaping laws vary even in vape-friendly nations, so always be mindful of where you vape.
Staying up to date with vaping laws ensures you can vape responsibly and legally, no matter where you are. For the latest updates and legal information, keep an eye on government health agencies and vaping advocacy groups.
Can You Take Vapes and Vape Liquids on a Plane?
If you’re a vaper planning to travel by air, you might be wondering about the rules for carrying vapes and e-liquids on a plane. Airlines and aviation authorities have specific regulations that you must follow to avoid any issues at security checkpoints or onboard the aircraft. Here’s what you need to know.
Carrying Your Vape on a Plane
- Allowed in Carry-On Bags Only: Most airlines and aviation authorities, including the TSA, require electronic vaping devices (such as e-cigarettes and vape pens) to be packed in your carry-on luggage. Due to the risk of battery-related fires, vapes are not permitted in checked baggage.
- Turn Off Your Device: Ensure your vape is completely powered off before packing it.
- No Vaping Onboard: Using a vape during the flight is strictly prohibited.
- Remove Your Pod Or Coil Before The Flight: Before flying, we recommend removing your pod or coil from your vape. Changes in air pressure can cause your vape liquid to leak from the tank or coil, leading to spills.
Bringing Vape Liquids on a Plane
- Follow Liquid Restrictions: E-liquids must comply with the standard airline liquid rules—bottles must be 100ml (3.4oz) or smaller and fit within a single quart-sized bag.
- Pack Securely: To avoid leaks due to cabin pressure changes, store e-liquid bottles in a sealed plastic bag.
Other Considerations
- Check Local Laws: Some countries have strict vaping regulations, including bans on vape devices and liquids. Always check the rules at your destination before traveling.
- Extra Batteries: If you bring extra batteries for your device, store them safely in a battery case to prevent short circuits.
By following these guidelines, you can travel hassle-free while keeping your vape gear safe and compliant with airline regulations. Safe travels and happy vaping!
FAQ
What can happen if I’m caught with a vape in a country that is banned?
It’s dependent on where you are. Some countries will confiscate your products, some will just give you a fine and in others you may even be taken to prison. So we would not recommend risking it.
Do all countries allow nicotine-containing e‑liquids?
No, they don’t. The rules and regulations vary per country, and it’s always best to do your research before travelling. Some countries have a limit to maximum nicotine strengths, some ban them altogether.
Can I travel internationally with my vape?
Most airlines allow you to travel with your vape, as long as it’s in your carry-on luggage. Whether or not they are allowed in the country you are travelling through, varies per country so if you have layovers on your journey, it’s best to double check the country’s rules and regulations, even if the stop is short.
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