Flying With Disposable Vapes: TSA Rules

The Core Rule: Carry-On Only

Per TSA guidance on electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, these products are permitted in carry-on bags with special instructions and are not permitted in checked bags. The same applies to spare lithium batteries and power banks.

The reason is straightforward: a lithium battery in the cabin is where crew can reach it, and a lithium battery in the cargo hold is not. TSA publishes the current position on tsa.gov, and the FAA publishes the underlying battery rules through its PackSafe guidance on faa.gov. Both are worth checking before you fly, since guidance is updated from time to time.

Preventing Accidental Activation

TSA also requires passengers to take effective measures to prevent accidental activation of the device's heating element during transport, and refers travellers to FAA regulations for examples.

In practice this means keeping the device somewhere it will not be squeezed or knocked repeatedly. Lost Mary devices are draw-activated, so they need airflow rather than a button press to fire, but a dedicated pouch or a zipped compartment away from heavy items is the sensible approach. Some travellers also pack devices in a small case rather than loose in a bag.

Battery Size Limits

TSA states that each lithium-ion battery must not exceed 100 watt-hours, and lithium metal batteries must not exceed 2 grams of lithium content. Consumer vaping devices sit far below those thresholds. The whole current Lost Mary lineup runs between 600mAh and 1000mAh, which is a tiny fraction of the limit.

TSA also advises checking with your airline about limits on how many devices a passenger may carry for personal use.

Onboard: No Use, No Charging

Using a vaping device on an aircraft is prohibited, and that includes lavatories, where smoke detectors are installed for exactly this reason. Charging a device from an onboard USB port or seat power outlet is also not allowed.

Put the device away for the duration of the flight. There is nothing to gain from testing this, and the consequences range from a warning to law enforcement meeting the aircraft.

Packing Practicalities

International Travel Varies

Rules outside the United States differ considerably from country to country. Some jurisdictions restrict the sale, import, or possession of nicotine vaping products, and penalties for arriving with them can be serious.

We are not able to give legal advice, and we do not maintain a country list. Check the official government or customs website for your destination and for any country you transit through, before you travel. Your airline's dangerous goods page is also a useful second source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a disposable vape on a plane?

Yes, in your carry-on. Per TSA guidance, electronic smoking devices are allowed in carry-on baggage only and are prohibited in checked baggage.

Can I put a vape in my checked luggage?

No. TSA lists checked bags as not permitted for these devices, and the same restriction applies to spare lithium batteries.

Can I use my vape at the airport?

Only where smoking is permitted. Most US airports are smoke-free indoors, with designated areas outside the terminal or, in some airports, a dedicated lounge. Follow the posted signage.

Can I charge my vape on the plane?

No. Charging lithium devices from onboard power is not permitted, and using the device is prohibited outright. Arrive with it charged.

How many vapes can I take on a flight?

TSA advises checking with your airline, which may set limits on the number of devices carried for personal use. Quantities that look like resale stock can also raise customs questions at your destination.

WARNING: This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical. Must be 21+ to purchase.