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Can You Take a Dab Pen on a Plane?
With cannabis products growing in popularity, including vapes like dab pens, a common question asked by recreational users is Can I take my dab pen on a plane?
The short answer is yes, you can bring these devices in carry-on luggage. However, there are important regulations, risks, and nuances to consider before zipping up your bags.
While the TSA’s main focus is aviation security, not searching for drugs, traveling with a device associated with cannabis calls for knowledge and prudence. So spark up as we unpack need-to-know details for your next high-flying adventure!
Facts About Traveling with Dab Pen on a Plane
Traveling with a dab pen, a popular type of vape device for consuming cannabis products, can navigate a gray area under federal law, especially when it comes to air travel.
You can bring a dab pen on a plane. However, there are important TSA vape rules you need to follow to ensure you can safely carry your device on board.
Dab pens must be kept in carry-on luggage or in your pockets—but are never allowed in checked luggage. You need to take steps to prevent your device from accidentally starting. The concentrates or oils are Federally controlled substances that even small amounts, are prohibited on United States.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is primarily concerned with the safety of passengers, focusing its efforts on potential threats during security screenings.
However, it’s imperative to understand that while TSA agents are not actively searching for illegal drugs, the presence of cannabis or THC products in your luggage could lead to complications.
Carrying any form of cannabis concentrates is illegal under federal law, even if you're flying between states where cannabis is legal.
Visible cannabis residue or the smell of cannabis can trigger further inspection. It’s essential to keep your device clean and free of residue.
Don't Take the Concentrates:
When you step into an airport, you’re under federal jurisdiction, where the transportation of cannabis-infused products, including THC oils and cannabis concentrates, is considered a federal offense.
Even if you’re traveling from one legal state to another, crossing state lines with these substances is against federal law.
If your dab pen contains cannabis oil or concentrate with THC, it may be confiscated, and local law enforcement could get involved. TSA doesn’t actively search for cannabis but is required to report any illegal substances they find.
Only travel with hemp-derived products less than 0.3% THC to comply with federal laws, even when flying between legal states. Choose clearly labeled products.
Carry-On Luggage Only:
TSA regulations are clear about electronic smoking devices: they must be carried in carry-on bags. This rule is in place due to the potential fire hazards posed by lithium batteries, a common component in vaping devices.
keep lithium batteries in carry-on baggage ensures that in the rare event of a malfunction, the issue can be quickly addressed by the flight crew.
Separate the Battery:
Lithium batteries are a fire hazard. Dab pens must comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules for lithium batteries:
Devices cannot exceed 100 watt-hours for lithium-ion batteries or 2 grams for lithium-metal batteries. This is far in excess of any normal dab pen battery, so it shouldn’t be an issue.
The pen’s heating element must not accidentally turn on during transit. Remove the cartridge, detach the battery, or use a protective case.
So, When packing your dab pen, separate the battery from the device, place it in a protective case, or with the metal terminals taped over to prevent accidental activation.
Extra Tips for Traveling with Dab Pen
A few additional tips can make traveling with your dab pen even smoother.
1. Stay Informed
Before your trip, check the latest TSA regulations and airline policies regarding electronic devices and vape pens. Rules can change, and staying updated is essential.
2. Keep it Accessible
Pack your dab pen in a way that it’s easily accessible in your carry-on luggage. This allows for quick retrieval when you need to place it in a bin for X-ray screening at the security checkpoint.
3. Be Ready for Inspection
Be prepared to explain your dab pen to TSA officers if asked. Keep it clean and free of any cannabis residue to avoid unnecessary delays or questions during the security screening.
4. Avoid Leakage
To prevent leakage, especially with devices that contain vape juice or cannabis oil, ensure your dab pen is empty or securely sealed. A plastic bag can offer an extra layer of protection against leaks, keeping your other belongings safe.
5. Respect Airline Policies
Remember, using your dab pen on the plane is prohibited. Respect the airline’s policies and the comfort of your fellow passengers by refraining from using your device during the flight.
6. Alternative Solutions
For longer trips or destinations with strict regulations, consider leaving your dab pen at home. Explore other options for your needs that might be more travel-friendly and compliant with local laws.
International Flights: Navigating the Complexities
Traveling internationally with a dab pen introduces a new layer of complexity due to the diverse legal landscapes across countries.
While you might be departing from a state where recreational use of cannabis is legal, the destination country might have stringent laws against THC products and cannabis vapes.
The most important thing to remember is that once you land in a foreign country, you are subject to its local laws and regulations regarding cannabis products.
Some nations have severe penalties for possession of what they consider an illegal substance, including vape devices associated with cannabis use.
It’s not just about facing a security checkpoint, it’s about understanding the potential for criminal prosecution in a country with zero tolerance for THC vapes and cannabis-infused products.
Let us never forget the horrible imprisonment of Brittney Griner for having empty vape cartridges with trace amounts of THC.
Understanding Airline Policies on Bringing Dab Pen
Each airline has its own set of rules regarding the transportation of electronic devices, including vape pens, and these policies can affect how you pack and carry your device.
It’s essential to review and understand the specific guidelines of the airline you’re flying with to ensure a hassle-free journey.
Allegiant Policy
Allegiant Air requires all electronic smoking devices, including dab pens, to be carried in your carry-on luggage or on your person. The use of these devices is prohibited onboard, and they cannot be checked in with your luggage due to the risk associated with lithium batteries.
Air Canada Policy
Air Canada allows passengers to bring vape devices, like dab pens, in carry-on baggage only. The airline emphasizes safety, advising passengers to protect the device from accidental activation and to keep vape batteries well-secured.
Air France Policy
Air France mandates that all electronic cigarettes, vape pens, and similar devices must be carried in cabin baggage. The airline prohibits the use of these devices during the flight and does not allow them in checked luggage.
American Airlines Policy
American Airlines permits the transportation of vaping devices in carry-on bags. The airline strictly prohibits checking in any items with lithium batteries, including vape pens, to prevent fire risks in the cargo hold.
Delta Airlines Policy
Delta Airlines requires that all electronic smoking devices be carried in carry-on luggage. The use of such devices onboard the aircraft is strictly forbidden, aligning with safety protocols.
Emirates Airlines Policy
Emirates enforces a policy that all electronic smoking devices must be carried in hand luggage. The airline highlights the importance of preventing accidental activation by ensuring the device is adequately protected.
Frontier Airlines Policy
Frontier Airlines stipulates that vape devices, including dab pens, must be transported in carry-on bags. They emphasize the potential safety hazards of lithium batteries as the reason for this requirement.
Hawaiian Airlines Policy
Hawaiian Airlines allows passengers to bring dab pens and other vaping devices in their carry-on luggage. They advise passengers to take precautions to avoid accidental activation and leakage.
JetBlue Airlines Policy
JetBlue mandates that all vape devices be carried on the person or in carry-on luggage. The airline does not permit these devices in checked baggage, citing safety concerns.
Lufthansa Airlines Policy
Lufthansa requires that electronic smoking devices be transported in cabin baggage. The airline has strict regulations to ensure these devices are not activated during the flight.
Qatar Airways Policy
Qatar Airways allows the carriage of vaping devices in cabin luggage only. The airline has a strict no-use policy for these devices onboard the aircraft.
Ryanair Policy
Ryanair permits vape devices in hand luggage but emphasizes that these devices must not be used or recharged while on the aircraft.
Southwest Airlines Policy
Southwest Airlines requires that all electronic smoking devices be carried in carry-on baggage. They remind passengers that checking these items is not permitted due to safety concerns.
Spirit Airlines Policy
Spirit Airlines allows dab pens and similar devices in carry-on luggage only. The airline underscores the importance of keeping these devices with the passenger for safety reasons.
Turkish Airlines Policy
Turkish Airlines mandates that all electronic smoking devices must be transported in carry-on luggage. The airline enforces a strict policy against the use of these devices during the flight.
