Can you bring a vape on a plane under 21?
Preparation for a trip that involves flying can often prove to be a challenging process.
This is true especially when it comes to understanding the regulations of various airlines.
One such item that raises concerns especially to individuals aged 21 and below is a vape.
According to statistics from crossrivertherapy.com, exactly 20% of the Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 vape.
This is high compared to the 16% of adults between the ages of 30 and 64.
The statistics indicate that teenagers between the ages of 15 and 17 have a 16 times greater chance of vaping compared to adults between the ages of 25 and 34.
Therefore, the topic of bringing a vape on a plane is popular among individuals aged below 21 especially in America.
In this post, we shall answer the question “can you bring a vape on a plane Under-21” comprehensively.
Can You Bring a Vape on a Plane Under 21?
YES, individuals under the age of 21 can bring a vape or electronic cigarettes on a plane.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not specifically mention if minors can bring vape pens onto planes on their website.
However, they have responded to queries on social platforms such as Twitter stating that vapes are allowed and must be packed in carry-on bags.
They however recommend that travelers follow the local laws at both their departure and arrival airports.
TSA agents enforce laws but they are not regular police.
They have a specific job to ensure aviation safety by making sure that dangerous items, weapons, or explosives are not brought onto planes.
When your carry-on bag or checked luggage is screened at the airport, TSA staff are not trying to do normal police work like catching possession of illegal herbs or vape pens.
The TSA simply wants to ensure that all vape pens are packed in hand luggage and not packed in checked luggage.
However, it’s important to note that federal and local state laws still apply at the airport.
So, while the TSA won’t confiscate a vaping device from a carry-on bag, they advise you to check state laws regarding age restrictions.
Rules and Regulations Regarding Vaping While on a Plane
The rules and regulations regarding vaping while on a plane are quite clear. Here are some key points:
Vaping is Prohibited Onboard
Vaping is prohibited on board any flight operated by any airline.
This means passengers cannot use their vaping devices on the plane, in the cabin, or in the lavatories.
Even though vapes are allowed on flights, the act of vaping or related activities such as smoking cigarettes has been banned for over 30 years due to the adverse health effects and safety hazards that flight attendants and passengers are exposed to.
Carrying Vapes
Passengers are allowed to bring electronic smoking devices like vaporizers (vapes) and e-cigarettes on board but they must be appropriately packed.
Vapes, e-cigarettes, and spare lithium batteries must be placed in carry-on luggage only.
They should be carefully protected to prevent the device from accidentally turning on.
Place the vapes or e-cigarettes in a protective case or remove the battery and place each battery in its own case or plastic bag to prevent a short circuit.
Use of Vapes
Just as passengers are not allowed to smoke cigarettes on an aircraft, they should never use their vapes or e-cigarettes on an aircraft.
It’s not only dangerous, it’s a federal offense.
Lithium Batteries
Electronic smoking devices contain lithium batteries that pose a fire risk.
The reason you can’t pack a vape pen in checked luggage is that vape pens contain lithium batteries.
Local Laws
While the TSA won’t confiscate a vaping device from a carry-on bag, they advise you to check state laws regarding age restrictions.
Please note that these rules apply to all passengers, regardless of age.
It’s always best to check with your airline and the local laws of your departure and arrival airports before you travel.
Age Restriction on Vaping
In the United States, the legal age to buy or possess electronic cigarette products, including vapes, is 21.
This law was signed on December 20, 2019.
However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not specifically mention if minors can bring vape pens onto planes on their website.
They have responded to queries stating that vapes are allowed and must be packed in carry-on bags.
They also recommend that if you’re traveling, ensure you follow the local laws at both the departure and arrival airports.
It’s important to note that while the TSA won’t confiscate a vaping device from a carry-on bag, they advise you to check state laws regarding age restrictions.
So, while you can technically bring a vape on a plane under 21, it’s crucial to be aware of the legal implications.
It’s always best to check with your airline and the local laws of your departure and arrival airports before you travel.
Airlines Policies on Vaping
The policies on vaping for airlines are generally quite strict.
Here are some key points:
Vaping is Prohibited Onboard: Vaping is prohibited on board any flight operated by any airline.
This means passengers cannot use their vaping devices on the plane, in the cabin, or in the lavatories.
Carrying Vapes: Passengers are allowed to bring electronic smoking devices like vaporizers (vapes) and e-cigarettes on board but they must be appropriately packed.
Vapes, e-cigarettes, and spare lithium batteries must be placed in carry-on luggage only.
They should be carefully protected to prevent the device from accidentally turning on.
Use of Vapes: Just as passengers are not allowed to smoke cigarettes on an aircraft, they should never use their vapes or e-cigarettes on an aircraft.
It’s not only dangerous, it’s a federal offense.
Lithium Batteries: Electronic smoking devices contain lithium batteries that pose a fire risk.
The reason you can’t pack a vape pen in checked luggage is that vape pens contain lithium batteries.
Local Laws: While the TSA sets baseline restrictions, individual airlines can implement additional policies on vaping devices.
Most major airlines including Delta, American, and United now ban e-cigarettes and vape pens in both carry-on and checked luggage.
Please note that these rules apply to all passengers, regardless of age.
It’s always best to check with your airline and the local laws of your departure and arrival airports before traveling.
International Travel Considerations if You Plan to Bring a Vape on a Plane Under 21
If you’re under 21 and planning to bring a vape on a plane for international travel, there are several considerations you should keep in mind:
TSA Rules: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows vapes to be packed in carry-on bags.
They do not specifically mention if minors can bring vape pens onto planes on their website.
However, they recommend that travelers follow the local laws at both their departure and arrival airports.
Local Laws: While the TSA won’t confiscate a vaping device from a carry-on bag, they advise you to check state laws regarding age restrictions.
So, while you can technically bring a vape on a plane under 21, it’s crucial to be aware of the legal implications.
Vape Juice Liquids: The TSA will want to make sure any vape juice is in containers under 3.4 Oz and packed in your one plastic quart-size liquids bag.
But they won’t check for age restrictions.
Lithium Batteries: The reason you can’t pack a vape pen in checked luggage is that vape pens contain lithium batteries.
Lithium batteries, and vape pens, pose a risk of fire.
Vaping Onboard: Vaping is prohibited on board any flight operated by any airline.
This means passengers cannot use their vaping devices on the plane, in the cabin, or in the lavatories.
Vaping at the Airport: Vaping at the airport is oftentimes, illegal. Airport regulations consider vaping as smoking.
So just like you’d smoke in strictly designated areas at the airport, you should also vape from the same areas if any.
Tips for Traveling with a Vape on a Plane Under 21
Traveling with a vape on a plane under 21 can be a bit tricky due to various rules and regulations.
Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:
Check Local Laws
Before you travel, check the local laws of both your departure and arrival airports regarding vaping and age restrictions.
While the TSA allows vapes in carry-on bags, they advise travelers to follow local laws.
Pack Vapes in Carry-On Bags
Vapes, e-cigarettes, and spare lithium batteries must be placed in carry-on luggage only.
This is because vape pens contain lithium batteries, which pose a risk of fire.
Protect Your Vape
Make sure the device is carefully protected to prevent it from accidentally turning on.
You can place it in a protective case or remove the battery and place each battery in its own case or plastic bag to prevent a short circuit.
Vape Juice Liquids
The TSA will want to make sure any vape juice is in containers under 3.4 Oz and packed in your one plastic quart-size liquids bag.
But they won’t check for age restrictions.
Don’t Vape Onboard
Remember that vaping is prohibited on board any flight operated by any airline.
This means passengers cannot use their vaping devices on the plane, in the cabin, or in the lavatories.
Don’t Vape at the Airport
Vaping at the airport is oftentimes, illegal.
Airport regulations consider vaping as smoking.
So, just like you’d smoke in strictly designated areas at the airport, you should also vape from the same areas if any.
Check Airline Policies
While the TSA sets baseline restrictions, individual airlines can implement additional policies on vaping devices.
Most major airlines including Delta, American, and United now ban e-cigarettes and vape pens in both carry-on and checked luggage.
Can You Bring a Vape on a Plane Under 21? Final Thoughts
Can You Bring a Vape on a Plane Under 21? The answer is definitely YES.
While it is technically possible for individuals under the age of 21 to bring a vape on a plane, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows vapes to be packed in carry-on bags, but they must be carefully protected to prevent accidental activation.
Vaping is prohibited on board any flight, and local laws regarding vaping and age restrictions must be adhered to.
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