Can You Take a Weed Vape on a Plane?

Weed vape is a very convenient cannabis accessory mainly due to its compact, and miniature size. Plus, as the cannabis flowers, concentrates, or any other weed component is tightly sealed inside a tube-like container, it’s easy to carry in any public space.

So, given the advantages of a weed vape, can you carry one on a plane? Well, the answer varies depending on whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally. Even if you’re traveling within the U.S., you must adhere to TSA requirements, and more importantly, comply with federal law concerning cannabis and regulations to carry vape pens on a plane.

In this article, we’ll break down whether it’s legal to bring weed vape on a plane, explain TSA’s (Transport Security Administration) rules, and guide you through how to safely (and legally) pack one for air travel.

Is it Legal to Carry Weed Vapes on a Plane for Both Domestic and International Flights?

Unfortunately, cannabis isn’t legal throughout the U.S. yet. So far recreational cannabis is legal in 24 states, and medical marijuana is legal in 39 states. This leaves out a grey area for the states where cannabis is partially legalized or is still illegal. And that’s the reason weed is still illegal based on federal laws.

So even if you’re traveling across states where cannabis is legal, you need to carry your weed vape in compliance with TSA rules. Whereas if you’re traveling internationally, it is completely prohibited to carry weed vape pens, or any other cannabis products such as pre-rolls, flowers, concentrates, tinctures, topicals, accessories, etc.

Understanding TSA Requirements for Carrying a Weed Vape on a Plane

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) operates under federal law, which means cannabis products including weed vapes containing THC is still illegal. While TSA officers do not actively search for cannabis products, if they find a weed vape in your carry-on or checked baggage, they are required to report it to local law enforcement. In most cases, the vape will be confiscated, and depending on local laws, you could face fines or legal consequences.

Beyond the legal issue, there are also safety regulations related to vape pens. Weed vapes are small electronic devices that contain lithium-ion batteries, which are considered a fire hazard in checked luggage. For this reason, all vape devices must be carried in your carry-on baggage or on your person, not in checked bags.

Additionally, changes in cabin air pressure during flight can cause the vape cartridge to leak. If the vape is stored loosely or not sealed properly, it can damage your belongings or worse, someone else’s if it’s in an overhead bin.

To stay compliant and avoid mess or risk, make sure to follow the tips below.

   • Remove the battery from your vape pen if possible.

   • Ensure there is no cannabis loaded into the device.

   • Store it in a leak-proof container in your carry-on bag or your pocket.

By following these TSA guidelines, you reduce the risk of safety issues and potential legal trouble. If you need to know more, here are the official TSA requirements for carrying Marijuana and Vaping Devices on a plane. If you also intend to carry items such as pre-rolls on a plane, keep in mind that similar TSA restrictions apply, especially regarding carry-on storage and federal law compliance.

How to Pack a Weed Vape for Air Travel in the U.S.?

Ideally, it’s best if you can leave your weed vape at home while traveling on a plane. However, if you do need to carry it, then it’s essential to ensure you’re complying with the following TSA and legal requirements as follows.

Weed Vapes are Not Allowed in Checked Baggage

As weed vapes are essentially electronic gadgets containing lithium-ion batteries, there’s a potential safety hazard of a fire outbreak or explosion. As checked baggage usually contains several items, the mounted pressure can lead to an accident.

Must Be Carried in Carry-On Baggage or Your Pocket

According to TSA requirements, if you are carrying weed vape, you need to carry it in a carry-on baggage which is usually kept in the overhead compartment in the plane, or under your seat. Or, you can even keep it in your pocket, but it’s essential to make sure that the batteries are removed, and there's no cannabis loaded into the device.

If you're bringing cannabis material (where legally allowed), store it separately in a sealed, airtight container to prevent leakage due to cabin pressure changes. Taking these precautions helps minimize mess, safety risks, and potential complications at security.

Read Also: How Much Are Pre-Rolls?

Are You Allowed to Use Weed Vape in the Airport or on a Plane?

No, it is strictly prohibited to use weed vape in an airport, or more importantly inside a plane. Both airports and airplanes fall under federal jurisdiction, where cannabis remains illegal. While some airports may have designated smoking or vaping areas, these zones typically apply to tobacco and nicotine use.

Even if recreational cannabis is legal in the state, that doesn't mean vaping weed is allowed in public or federal spaces. Always check whether the airport has a designated cannabis smoking area. If not, using a weed vape can lead to serious legal repercussions, including fines or even arrest.

What to Expect If TSA Finds Your Weed Vape?

TSA officers do not specifically search for cannabis products or accessories. However, if a weed vape is discovered during screening, there are a few possible outcomes depending on local laws, the amount found, and whether THC is detected. Here's what you can expect if TSA flags your weed vape during the inspection.

Confiscation of the Device: If TSA agents identify a weed vape, they may confiscate it especially if it appears to contain THC or any cannabis material.

Referral to Law Enforcement: TSA is required to notify local law enforcement when federally prohibited substances are found. What happens next depends on local and state laws.

No Further Action: In states where cannabis is legal, local authorities may decide not to pursue the matter, especially if it's a small, personal-use amount. However, this is not guaranteed.

Missed Flight or Delays: If you're detained for questioning or law enforcement is called, you could miss your flight or experience significant delays.

Fines or Legal Charges: In states where cannabis is still illegal, you may face fines, citations, or even criminal charges depending on the quantity and reason for carrying the weed vape.

Final Verdict: Should You Bring a Weed Vape on a Plane?

Ideally, you shouldn’t bring weed vape on a plane, as there are chances of getting into various legal complications. However, if you decide to travel with a weed vape, be sure to follow TSA guidelines carefully.

Remove the battery from the device, empty the vape of any cannabis material, and store cartridges in a tightly sealed, leak-proof container. Keep both the vape and the battery in your carry-on bag to minimize safety risks and remain compliant with airline policies.

If you're flying within Michigan or heading out of state, it may be safer and more convenient to leave your weed vape at home and purchase a new one after landing. Here at Smilez, we offer exclusive deals on weed, vapes, concentrates, and other cannabis products at locations across Michigan including Allegan, Burton, Quincy, Reading, Three Rivers, and Wayne.

Need a fresh vape or restock on your favorite cannabis products? Explore our website for fast, convenient curbside pickup, or visit the nearest Smilez location today.

FAQs on Bringing Weed Vape on a Plane

What happens if TSA finds my weed vape? 

If the TSA finds your weed vape, it will be confiscated, reported, and handed over to a local law enforcement officer. After that, legal procedures will apply according to local state laws. If cannabis is legal in that state, then you may be detained for an explanation. However, if it’s in a state where it’s illegal there may be more serious legal consequences which can lead to a fine or even an arrest.

Will TSA take my weed vape out of my carry-on?

Yes, during airport screening, your carry-on bag will go through X-ray imaging, and you'll be asked to empty your pockets and place items in a separate bin. If TSA officers find weed vape either on the scanner or in the bin, they will inspect it further. If the vape is suspected to contain THC or other cannabis substances, TSA is required to report it to local law enforcement. In most cases, the device may be confiscated, and you could face legal consequences depending on local laws.

Can drug dogs smell weed vapes?

Yes, drug dogs have a keen smell of smell, and as they’re specifically trained to identify weed, and various drugs they can quickly identify it, and that’s another way the TSA can find out that you’re carrying weed vapes. Unless the cartridge containing the cannabis is tightly packed and sealed in an airtight container.

Where should I put my weed vape when flying?

If you’re traveling from one state to another where weed is legal, you should carry it either in your pocket or carry-on bag. As weed vapes contain lithium-ion batteries, they pose a significant risk of accidental fire, and that’s why vapes are not allowed in checked baggage.