Vaping is more popular than ever before. Long-time smokers are making the switch to vapes because they are considered by many to be less harmful to users than traditional cigarettes, are more discreet, and don’t leave a smell on a user's body, while young people who have never smoked before are drawn to the variety of flavors. 

Vapers are so used to putting their vape in the same spot after each puff so they know exactly where it is for next time that they can easily forget to place it in the plastic tray before stepping through metal detectors at airport security or an event. Due to the metal components in disposable vapes, they may set off metal detectors as you step through them. 

Here, we examine disposable vapes and their interaction with metal detectors, especially in places like airports and at large events. 

Will a Disposable Vape Set Off a Metal Detector?

For people who don't harbor any ill intentions, metal detectors may seem an irritating aspect of modern life, but really, they are there to keep people safe from dangerous items being brought onto a flight or into an event.

Security protocols surrounding vapes on flights are because vapes have exploded in the past due to the Lithium-ion batteries inside getting too hot. Fortunately, nobody was injured when a vape pen caused a fire on a Spirit Airlines flight to Orlando, and a vape battery exploded at McCarran International Airport. For safe travel, vapers should: 

• Only buy trusted vapes 
• Always unplug after charging to avoid overheating 
• Don't buy high-voltage vapes

There isn't an exact answer to whether a disposable vape will set off a metal detector. It can depend on the metal detector being used or the vape's metal content. Vapes with bigger lithium-ion batteries and large heating elements inside are the most likely to set them off. Metal-detecting wands may also pick up on a vape being kept on the body. 

Implications for Users

While smoking and vaping are both prohibited on flights, disposable nicotine vapes are generally permitted in your carry-on luggage or your pocket, so you can visit the designated smoking lounge after check-in before you set off on your flight.

For specific regulations on your flight, contact the airline directly. The best way to avoid the public embarrassment of setting off a metal detector with your vape is by placing it in the plastic tray provided before you walk through. 

Alternatives and Precautions

Nicotine pouches like Zyns are a great alternative to vapes when flying. There's no risk of setting off the alarm as you go through the metal detector, and you can bring them on board and use them discreetly during the flight, too.

Vapes are allowed in carry-on luggage. However, due to their shape and metal components, don't be surprised if security asks to have a closer look at the airport. Alternatively, you can place your vape in the plastic tray before you walk through the metal detector. 

Conclusion

People who use disposable vapes regularly may not want to leave their trusty e-cigarette at home while traveling or at an event. Keeping your vape in its original packaging should pass through airport security in your carry-on luggage without being flagged.

Or, take the vape out of your pocket and place it in the plastic tray before you step through the metal detector to save yourself time and potential embarrassment. Alternatively, you can switch to nicotine pouches for your flight and pick a vape up at your final destination.