Vape Juice and Airport Security: Rules in 2025

LONDON, UK, June 2025 – As more UK residents choose vaping over smoking, clear guidance on travelling with e-liquids and devices is vital. With tightened liquid limits, strict battery regulations, and a looming ban on disposable vapes, UK travellers need to know exactly how to pack vape juice (e-liquid), carry vape kits, and navigate airport policies both at home and abroad. 

Vaping among UK adults has risen sharply over the past decade, with an estimated 5.6 million current vapers in Great Britain by 2024, reported by ASH. As those users book flights for holidays or business, unfamiliarity with airport security rules can lead to confiscated liquids, device delays, or fines. Additionally, from 1 June 2025, single-use (disposable) vapes will be banned nationwide, affecting travel convenience and device choices.

A report by the UK Government outlines the latest guidance from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), IATA, and the UK government, as well as travel tips and statistics to help vloggers, frequent flyers, and casual travellers prepare their vape gear correctly.

What’s the rule? Vape juice bottles must be 100ml or smaller when carried in hand luggage, placed inside a single 1-litre resealable plastic bag alongside toiletries and other liquids. Any container over 100ml should be placed in checked baggage, but the risk of leakage and potential confiscation makes large bottles inadvisable. Security teams enforce the 3-1-1 rule (three items of 100ml or less, in one 1-litre bag, one bag per passenger) rigorously, as reported by British Airways.

Expert commentary: A spokesperson for a major UK airport notes, “Vape juice counts as liquid. We treat e-liquids the same as perfumes or lotions. Travellers should pack e-liquid with toiletries, not separately, to avoid delays or disposal at screening.”

No vaping on flights: Even though e-cigarettes are becoming more and more popular, airlines regard vaping the same way they would regular smoking: nowhere on the aircraft, including the restrooms, is it permitted. Cabin staff enforces a zero-tolerance policy and fines or extra penalties for infractions.

No in-flight charging: Plugging in vape devices at seat power outlets or USB ports is banned due to fire risk. Travellers must stow devices powered off until landing.

Industry perspective: There is a non-negligible danger of thermal runaway when charging lithium-ion batteries in flight, according to an aviation safety specialist. E-cigarette charging is prohibited on aeroplanes globally, in keeping with more general regulations regarding electronic devices.

Before Security: Many UK airports still offer outdoor smoking shelters where vaping is allowed. However, these areas are diminishing as terminals are redesigned. Travellers should check their departure airport’s website under “smoking/vaping zone” before arriving.

After Security: Indoor vaping zones are rare. Heathrow stated that it has trialled limited vape-friendly areas post-security, but most terminals ban vaping inside. This trend reflects security and fire-safety priorities; some airports cite passenger feedback but balance it against overall safety and comfort.

Always check the online policies of your airport.

EU countries: Generally permissive towards vaping, but many cities restrict public vaping similarly to smoking. For instance, France has tightened public-use rules. Travellers should review local legislation via official tourism or government sites.

Asia and the Middle East: Some countries (Thailand, Singapore) impose hefty fines or confiscation for possession of e-cigarettes or e-liquids. Others (UAE region) may ban the sale or public use. UK Foreign Office travel advisories often include sections on vaping; consulting these before departure is essential.

Case study: A UK holidaymaker was fined and had devices seized at Bangkok airport when they were unaware of Thailand’s strict import laws. “I thought carrying my spare vape kit was fine,” they reported. “But customs took everything, and I faced a fine. It ruined the start of my trip.”

Ban details: From 1 June 2025, UK retailers cannot sell or supply single-use (disposable) vapes, defined as non-rechargeable, non-refillable devices. This affects both in-store and online sales across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.

Environmental & health rationale: Millions of disposables are discarded annually, contributing to plastic waste and battery fires in waste collection. Public health bodies aim to reduce youth vaping by limiting easily accessible devices.

Travel advice:

• Plan to switch from disposables to rechargeable or refillable pod kits before travelling.v
• Verify that your chosen device complies with airline carry-on and battery insulation regulations.
• Stock up on compatible e-liquids (≤100ml) in travel-friendly bottles.

• Vaping prevalence: 5.6 million vapers in Great Britain by 2024, around 9% of adults. A meaningful proportion are likely to travel annually.
• Battery incidents: Although rare, lithium battery fires in cargo holds have led to strict carry-on rules. IATA reports underline that removing batteries from checked luggage mitigates risk.
• Environmental impact: UK government data indicates the disposal of over 360 million single-use vapes yearly; the ban aims to curb this waste stream and associated fire hazards.
• Policy alignment: CAA, IATA, and UK Government guidance converge on safety-first approaches to liquids and batteries. Regularly updated airport websites reflect these evolving standards.

• E-liquid bottles ≤100ml: Pack in a single 1-litre clear resealable bag.
• Vape devices in carry-on: Never in hold baggage.
• Spare batteries are insulated: Original packaging or tape-covered terminals.
• Switch off devices: Remove pods or tanks if possible before boarding.
• No vaping or charging onboard: Stow devices until after landing.
• Check airport vaping zones: Look online for departure and transit airports.
• Research destination rules: Consult the UK Foreign Office or official sources on vaping laws abroad.
• Switch from disposables: Use rechargeable/refillable kits, especially after the 1 June 2025 ban.

With vaping integrated into the routines of millions in the UK, clear, accurate information on travelling with vape juice, devices, and batteries is essential. By following CAA and IATA carry-on rules, respecting no-vaping and no-charging policies onboard, checking airport facilities, understanding international regulations, and preparing for the disposable vape ban, UK travellers can avoid hassles and focus on their trip.

For the latest updates, refer to official sources, such as the UK Civil Aviation Authority, IATA advisories, and the GOV.UK announcements. Safe travels, and happy vaping!