Does TSA Take Out And Confiscate Vapes?
Vaping has been growing in popularity for years now, and its compact size makes it easy to travel with. One thing that's important to remember about vapes is that they contain batteries, so they are subject to restrictions at an airport. This begs the question: Can you bring a vape on an airplane? The answer is yes, with caveats. According to the TSA, you cannot keep a vape in your checked luggage, so you must bring it in your carry-on. If you do bring a vape, make sure that the lithium ion batteries are not more than a 100 Wh (Watt-hour) rating. For lithium metal batteries, make sure it doesn't contain more than 2 grams of lithium.
There may also be restrictions on how many vapes you can bring, which is something that you should check with your airline before packing your bag. If you don't comply with these airline regulations, or if TSA officers believe that there are any issues with your vape, then they have the right to take it off you. However, there are things you can do to make that less likely to happen.
How to correctly store your vapes for flying
The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) has issued official regulations for flying with vapes to ensure that the heating element isn't set off during a flight, which could create a fire risk. First of all, the battery must be removed from the electronic cigarette, and it must not come into contact with the heating coil while in transit. You can also keep the vape in a protective case and utilize any safety mechanisms that the device has in place, like a locking mechanism that prevents any accidental firing up of the heating element.
Any spare batteries must also be kept in your carry-on, separate from the vape. To stop the battery terminals from coming into contact with any metal, keep them in their packaging or a protective case, or cover the ends with tape. Vaping liquids are subject to the TSA liquid rules, so you will need to put them in a clear plastic bag and not exceed 3.4 ounces. If you follow all of these guidelines, then you're more likely to get through security with your vape.
Consequences for vaping
While you cannot vape inside airports, you can in the designated outdoor smoking areas, which are often located away from the main entrances. However, once you've been through security, there are not any smoking areas that you can use at the gates. Occasionally, there may be airside smoking zones, but this is very rare. Since you'll need to deactivate and store your vape before security anyway, it's best to just leave your vape disassembled and in your bag until you arrive at your destination.
Needless to say, it can be dangerous to vape on an airplane. In addition to causing delays, it'll make you very unpopular with the other passengers. Remember there are countries where vaping is banned or heavily restricted, such as India and Thailand, so you won't be able to use a vape at those airports or anywhere else within their borders. In some places, vaping can even result in prison time or a fine, so don't risk it.