Can You Bring a Vape on a Plane in Canada?

If you’re a vaper planning to travel with one of the best airlines in Canada, you might be wondering whether you can bring your vape along. After all, Canadians are allowed to bring weed on domestic flights. So why not a vape? The short answer is yes, you can bring your vape on board a plane. However, you are not allowed to smoke your vape on a plane. In this article, we’ll guide you through the precautions you need to take if you want to fly with a vape, and what can happen if you don’t follow the rules.

Airline Policies on Vaping Devices

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a particularly worrisome case of passengers who were misbehaving on a chartered Sunwing flight to Mexico. The passengers refused to wear masks, danced on seats, passed around a bottle of vodka, and one women was caught on camera vaping. The case created a lot of controversy because vaping is not allowed on planes in Canada. Let’s take a closer look at the specific rules that apply for all Canadian airlines.

Policies on Domestic Airlines

According to the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA), Canadians are allowed to bring a vape pen on flights within Canada. However, to reduce the risk of fire on the plane, you have to keep the vape pen on you instead of placing it in a checked bag or carry-on. Since a vape pen contains batteries, the rules for packing batteries on flights also apply to vape pens. 

Unlike the vape pen itself, liquids for refilling an e-cigarette can be packed in a checked bag or carry-on, and you can bring up to 100 ml (3.4 oz.) of liquid in your carry-on, with larger quantities allowed in your checked bag. The liquid doesn’t have to be taken out of your cases or bags during screening. While these rules apply in Canada, different rules may apply when flying internationally.

When it comes to vaping on the airplane, the rule is a hard and unequivocal no across all domestic and international flights, just the same as it is for smoking a cigarette on a plane.

International Airlines vs. Domestic Airlines

It’s worth noting that there may be differences in policies between domestic and international airlines. This is because international airlines often have to comply with the laws and restrictions of multiple countries they operate in.

If you’re traveling with an international airline, it’s crucial to check their specific policies on vaping devices, even if vaping is allowed by Canadian laws. These policies may be more stringent to ensure compliance with the regulations of various countries.

For example, a Canadian airline may allow vaping devices on their domestic flights, but the same airline may have stricter rules for their international flights. This discrepancy is due to the need to adhere to the regulations of the countries they fly to and from.

By familiarizing yourself with the policies of the airline you’ll be flying with, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience. It’s always better to be well-informed and prepared rather than facing unexpected issues at the airport or onboard the aircraft.

How to Pack Your Vape for Air Travel

Now that you know the legal and airline-specific regulations, let’s discuss how to pack your vape for air travel in Canada. Proper packing ensures the safety of both your vape device and other passengers.

When preparing for air travel with your vape, it’s important to consider various factors to ensure a smooth journey. From packing your vape liquids to handling the batteries, every step plays a crucial role in maintaining safety and complying with regulations.

Tips for Packing Vape Liquids

When packing your vape liquids, it’s crucial to follow the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) guidelines. CATSA requires liquids to be carried in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz.) or less and placed in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag. Each passenger is allowed one bag.

While adhering to the guidelines, it’s also essential to consider the quantity of vape liquids you carry. It’s recommended to pack only the necessary amount for your trip to avoid any potential leaks or spills. Additionally, double-check the lids of your vape liquid containers to ensure they are tightly closed to prevent any accidental leakage during the flight.

If you have e-liquids that exceed 100 ml (3.4 oz.), it’s best to pack them in your checked baggage to avoid any issues at security checkpoints. By doing so, you can enjoy your vape without any concerns about violating regulations or causing delays.

Battery Safety for Vapes on Planes

The safety of lithium-ion batteries used in vape devices is a primary concern for airlines. To prevent potential fire hazards, it’s essential to handle and pack your batteries correctly.

Prior to your journey, ensure that your vape device’s batteries are properly installed and switched off. This step is crucial in preventing any accidental activation during transit. It’s recommended to store batteries in a protective case or use a dedicated battery sleeve to minimize the risk of damage or short circuits.

By following these battery safety measures, you can enjoy a worry-free journey, knowing that your vape device is securely packed and poses no risk to yourself or other passengers.

Remember, it’s always a good idea to check with the specific airline you are flying with for any additional regulations or restrictions they may have regarding the transportation of vape devices. Being well-informed and prepared ensures a hassle-free travel experience for everyone involved.

General Rules for Vape Pens and Accessories on Domestic Flights in Canada 

Consequences of Violating Vape Rules on Planes

Failure to comply with the vaping rules on planes can have serious consequences. Violating these regulations may result in legal penalties and airline-imposed sanctions.

Potential Legal Penalties

If you violate the vaping regulations on a plane, you may face legal consequences depending on the severity of the offense. These penalties can range from fines to being arrested by the authorities upon landing. The maximum penalty for breaching the smoking provision of Canada’s Aeronautics Act is a $5,000 fine, so taking out your vape pen for a couple of drags can be a costly mistake.

Airline-Specific Consequences

In addition to potential legal penalties, airlines can also impose their own consequences for violating their vaping policies. These consequences may include fines, flight bans, or even legal action, depending on the severity of the violation and the airline’s policies.

In the situation involving the chartered Sunwing flight to Mexico, individuals were not permitted to return home from Mexico not only by Sunwing, but also by Air Transat and Air Canada. This highlights how airlines prioritize their safety regulations and are willing to deny individuals the ability to fly with them if they present a potential danger to the well-being of the crew or fellow passengers.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so make sure you understand and follow the vaping rules set by the airline you’re flying with, both for your convenience and the safety of others.

Understanding Vaping Regulations in Canada

Before we delve into airline policies, let’s first understand the legal status of vaping in Canada and how the regulations differ in each province.

The Legal Status of Vaping in Canada

Vaping devices and e-liquids fall under the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act (TVPA), which governs their sale, use, and importation across the country. Under the TVPA, it is legal to possess and use vaping devices and supplies for personal use in Canada. However, individual provinces have the jurisdiction to implement additional regulations.

When it comes to the legal status of vaping in Canada, there are some important factors to consider. In general, vaping is permitted in Canada, provided that the vaper meets the legal age requirements set by the province they are in. This means that individuals must be of legal age to purchase and use vaping products. It’s important to note that vaping is prohibited in certain public spaces, such as schools and hospitals, where smoking is also banned.

To ensure compliance with local laws, it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations of the province you are traveling to or from. This will help you avoid any potential legal issues and ensure a smooth vaping experience during your travels.

Provincial Differences in Vaping Laws

Now, let’s explore some of the provincial differences in vaping laws across Canada. While vaping is legal in all provinces, there are variations in regulations that vapers should be aware of.

In British Columbia, for example, vaping is prohibited in indoor public spaces, including restaurants and bars. This is to protect non-vapers from exposure to secondhand vapor. On the other hand, in Alberta, there are no specific restrictions on where vaping can take place, but individual establishments may have their own policies in place.

Manitoba has implemented a ban on the sale of flavored e-liquids, similar to Quebec, in an effort to discourage young individuals from vaping. Saskatchewan, on the other hand, does not have any additional restrictions beyond the federal regulations.

In Ontario, vaping is prohibited in enclosed workspaces and certain outdoor areas. This is to ensure that non-vapers are not exposed to secondhand vapor, just like in British Columbia. Additionally, Quebec has implemented restrictions on the sale of flavored e-liquids, aiming to reduce the appeal of vaping to young individuals.

It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to stay updated on the vaping laws of the province you are in or plan to visit. This will help you ensure that you are vaping responsibly and in accordance with the local regulations.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, the regulations clearly state that you are allowed to bring a vape pen on a domestic flight. However, you are not allowed to use it during the flight and in many areas of the airport. Generally, if you can’t smoke in a certain place, then it’s easy to assume that the same goes for vaping. And remember, always pack your devices and liquids appropriately and follow the safety guidelines for batteries. By adhering to these rules, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience without any vape-related hiccups.

Now, let’s address some common questions vapers have about vaping on planes in Canada.