Travellers carrying vapes or portable power banks must pack them in hand luggage, not checked-in suitcases, to avoid fire risks and potential flight disruptions, according to travel specialist Kate Donnelley (@Thedonnelleyedit).
Why the rules exist
Any item containing a lithium-ion battery poses a fire risk on board a flight if damaged or overheated. For this reason, all such items must be carried in cabin baggage and never in the hold, says Kate.
She said: "Due to a growing number of incidents recently, specifically involving power banks, some airlines have really tightened up their regulations." Earlier this year, an EasyJet plane was forced to divert when crew became aware of a power bank issue.
Airlines' specific rules
EasyJet, Ryanair, TUI, Jet2 and Virgin Atlantic all ban the use of power banks during a flight. Passengers are limited to no more than two power banks per person, with capacities up to 160Wh each, except Ryanair, which caps them at 100Wh.
Jet2, Ryanair and Virgin Atlantic require power banks to be stowed under seats, not in overhead bins. EasyJet and TUI have no specific guidance on this.
For vapes, all five airlines ban them from checked hold luggage and prohibit vaping or charging on board. Each has specific rules for carry-on:
- EasyJet: Devices must be completely switched off and protected against accidental activation.
- Ryanair: The device or spare batteries must be stowed underneath the seat in front, not in overhead lockers.
- TUI: Devices must remain powered down for the flight. Loose batteries must be individually wrapped or in insulated cases.
- Jet2: Must be stowed under the seat, battery installed, capacity not exceeding 160Wh, and protected against short-circuiting.
- Virgin Atlantic: Devices must be in a protective case, and cannot be plugged into in-seat power.
Kate added: "Not only do these items pose a fire risk, but if not packed properly, you might be delayed in boarding. Your bag might need to be removed from the hold, and worst-case scenario, you might miss your flight altogether."
