Traveling with a vape used to be simple in the UK, but times have changed, and so have the laws. After the UK’s 2025 ban on disposable vapes, the rules for air travel have also changed, leaving many wondering what’s still permitted. If you love vaping and are planning to fly to or from the UK, you must know about the innovations in the country’s legal framework. Read this article to know the new law and the possible alternatives to disposable vapes.
Can You Take Disposable Vapes on a Plane in the UK?
Yes, you could take your disposable vapes on a plane in the UK previously with specific preventive measures. Vapes in an airport or on an airline are not explicitly banned, but disposable vapes are a matter of concern for the UK officials. Previously, if you traveled from any of the airports in the UK, you had to consider the following things;
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Avoid carrying them in your suitcase that is to be screened.
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Keep your vape switched off during the flight to avoid fire risks.
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Avoid packing it under the piles of luggage, and you will have easy access to it.
However, there was a complete ban on the use of disposable vapes in the UK, and you can no longer use, purchase, or possess this type according to the legal framework of the UK.
Can You Take Disposable Vapes in Hand Luggage or a Suitcase?
You must carry disposable vapes in your hand luggage. Keeping them in a suitcase is not a safe option. Most airlines have restrictions on holding your vape inside a bag. However, keeping it in hand luggage with convenient access is permissible. If you travel from the UK, keeping the vape in your hand luggage is necessary.
How Many Disposable Vapes Can I Bring on a Plane?
The number of disposable vapes you carry on a flight matters a lot. These devices contain lithium-ion batteries, and most countries have strict rules about how many one can carry.
While flying from the UK, you can keep up to 15 devices with Lithium-ion batteries. That also includes electronic gadgets you may be carrying, such as a laptop and a cellphone. So, to avoid inconvenience later, you should not keep more than two to three disposable vapes.
What Happens if You Vape in an Airport or Plane?
Vaping inside a plane or at an airport is strictly prohibited, especially in the UK. Doing it openly at the airport or during the flight can initiate a severe fire, putting hundreds of lives at risk. You must wait for a designated area if you want to vape; otherwise, you may get yourself in the following circumstances;
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Authorities may remove you quickly from the airport.
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You may face severe legal charges.
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You may get banned from travelling ever again with the same airline.
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You may be charged a fine for such misconduct.
Are Disposable Vapes Banned in the UK in 2025?
Yes, the UK has finally declared it illegal to use disposable vapes. You may have wondered when disposable vapes were banned in the UK. Officials have considered imposing a ban on disposable vapes since mid-2023, and until September 2023, the issue was being considered seriously.
Afterwards, by carefully consulting with multiple departments, including the Department of Health, Environment, and Food and Rural Affairs, the government decided to impose a ban on both nicotine and non-nicotine disposable vapes all across the UK.
Why Are Disposable Vapes Being Banned In The UK?
Disposable vapes are being banned in the UK mainly to protect young people and reduce environmental waste. Over the past few years, there’s been a sharp rise in underage vaping, with brightly coloured packaging and sweet flavours making these devices attractive to teens.
UK officials became increasingly concerned that disposable vapes were being marketed in ways that appealed to children, even though the legal age to vape is 18.
Alongside this health concern, single-use vapes have created a serious environmental issue. Most contain lithium batteries and plastic components, which are rarely appropriately recycled and often pollute landfills or harm wildlife.
That’s why the UK government officially announced plans to ban disposable vapes in 2024, with the new rules expected to take effect in 2025. This decision supports wider efforts to tackle youth vaping and make the country more environmentally responsible.
2025 Travel Advice: Taking Disposable Vapes on an Airplane
Travellers can no longer legally purchase, sell, or carry disposable vapes within the country for personal use or travel purposes. If you're planning to fly from the UK, it's essential to understand what this ban means for air travel and how to prepare accordingly.
You cannot legally take disposable vapes on a plane from the UK after the nationwide ban. To get yourself saved from legal consequences later, you must have a clear understanding of the things given below;
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Under current rules, refillable or reusable vape kits are still allowed, but they must follow aviation battery and liquid guidelines.
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If you're carrying a refillable device, all e-liquid bottles must be under 100ml and placed in a clear plastic bag at airport security.
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Using or charging any vape device on board remains strictly prohibited on all UK-based airlines.
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If returning to the UK, do not bring back disposable vapes in your luggage, even if purchased legally abroad, as they may get you in trouble.
The Bottom Line
With the UK’s 2025 ban on disposable vapes now in full effect, travelers must rethink how they pack and vape responsibly. While these single-use devices were once easy to travel with, they’re no longer a legal option for anyone flying from or into the UK. Instead, switching to refillable vape kits is safer and more sustainable. Planning keeps the journey stress-free and helps avoid any unwanted legal trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to declare disposable vapes at airport security?
No, you do not necessarily need to declare disposable vapes. However, you should carry them in your hand luggage and make them visible during luggage screening.
Are there vape-friendly countries I can travel to from the UK?
Many countries, including Portugal, Germany, France, and Spain, are safer to travel to from the UK with vapes. However, to be safe, you should always check the rules and regulations of these countries before planning your travel.
What’s the alternative to disposable vapes when traveling?
You can use refillable vape kits instead of disposable options. They are preferable because they are environmentally friendly and may be legal even after the expected ban on vapes in the UK.