Post updated May 2018. Always check the most recent national laws of the country you plan to travel to before you depart. 

It may seem a while off right now, but summer isn’t actually too far away, which means that travel plans are already starting to be formulated. Passports need to be checked, tickets booked, accommodation planned, but if you vape there’s another consideration to make which may affect your travel destination.

The following is everything you need to know about vaping and airports.

Everything You Need to Know About Vaping and Airports

Airline E-Cig Policies

When making your arrangements, it’s always a good idea to speak to the airline you plan to fly with to check their e-cig policy. Most airlines now have established rules in place regarding whether e-cigs are allowed on board, with most allowing them to be stored in your travel on bag; if in doubt, check their website or contact them via email or on social media. It’s unlikely, however, that you’ll be able to vape on-board. Can I travel with my electronic cigarette?

When your date of departure does finally arrive, you may wish to be able to use your e-cig prior to boarding, and most airports do have a vaping policy in place. Some airports are more lenient than others, but if your travel plans include an extended layover, it’s best to plan ahead. Vaping overseas.

Checked Luggage Battery Ban

Coming into effect last summer, there is now a worldwide ban on transporting e-cigs in checked luggage. The International Civil Aviation Organization amended the 2015-2016 edition of its Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (ICAO Doc 9284) which mean that e-cigs are no longer allowed to be stored in the hold of the aircraft.

This is something all vapers need to be aware of when planning a trip – store any hardware (batteries, tanks etc.) in your carry-on bag.

Airports Known to Allow Vaping

This is subject to change so it is advisable to always check prior to travelling. This list is current as of May 2018.Can I vape in an airport?

Vaping is allowed in the terminal at a number of airports. In the UK if you’re departing from Heathrow, vaping is actually permissible as far as the gate. Vaping anywhere within the terminal is off-limits at both Glasgow or Edinburgh airports, however. Which airports allow vaping?

In other airports around the world, such as Munich or Charles de Gaulle, vaping is allowed only in designated areas. Often these will be shared spaces where smoking is also allowed, so if you’re keen to avoid second-hand smoke these may be less than ideal. Countries where vaping is banned.

The restrictions covering the transport of liquids on flights have been in place for several years now, and e-liquids are not exempt. In the same way as if you plan to take perfume or liquid foundation on your travels, if you’re taking e-liquid with you, ensure that you adhere to the rules for cabin bags and carry any spare bottles in your checked luggage. Don’t waste the e-liquid you’ve purchased by trying to take them through security, instead make sure your selection is safely stored away in the hold. Vaping overseas.

Vaping and the Law

When planning your trip, you should also take the time to read up on the legal status of e-cigs in all of the countries you plan to visit. In most countries, e-cigs are legal to use (though may be subject to the same restrictions as tobacco), in a handful of places vaping is banned outright. International vaping laws.

It’s often difficult to pin down the exact legal situation, so again it’s very much advised that you do your research when booking your holiday. You do not want to be on the wrong side of the law in places like the UAE.

Countries Where Vaping is Known to be Banned or Illegal

Current as of May 2018. Always check for up to date legislation before traveling.

• Hong Kong tips for traveling and vaping. Take an e cigarette on the plane?
• The UAE. Vape on a plane? Can I smoke an e cigarette on a plane?
• Singapore traveling with e cigs. Can I travel with an e cigarette?

Wherever you plan on travelling to this summer, it pays to plan ahead to avoid getting your trip off on the wrong foot. Travel with an electronic cigarette.

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Megan is an Australian Journalist who has been travelling and blogging since 2007, with the main aim of inspiring others to embark on their own worldwide adventure. Her husband Mike is an American travel photographer, and together they have made the world their home.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

Follow their journey on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.

Photo credits: Featured photo & vaping Pinterest image by Ecig Click. Can I vape in airport terminals? Rules for vaping in airports?  Countries where vaping is illegal.