Yes, you can fly to Costa Rica with a vape pen in your carry-on bag. Vaping is legal for adults there, but it is banned in many public places.

Can You Fly With a Vape Pen To Costa Rica?

What is a Vape Pen?

A vape pen is a small e-cigarette. It has a rechargeable battery, a heating coil and a tank or cartridge of e-liquid.

The coil heats the liquid into an aerosol that you inhale. Most e-liquids contain nicotine, which is highly addictive.

The FDA says e-cigarettes are not risk-free. They may lower risk for adults who switch completely from cigarettes, but people who don't use tobacco should not start.

Are There Restrictions On Flying With A Vape Pen?

Yes, you can fly to Costa Rica with a vape pen, but only in your carry-on bag. TSA rules for vaping devices ban them from checked luggage.

You must take effective steps to stop the heating element from switching on by accident. Each lithium-ion battery must be 100 watt-hours or less, which covers almost all vape batteries.

The FAA says vapes must never be used or charged on the aircraft. Keep yours switched off or locked for the whole flight.

E-liquid in your carry-on follows the TSA liquids rule: bottles of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, packed in one quart-sized bag.

Traveling To Costa Rica With A Vape Pen

Costa Rica allows adults to use vapes, so you can bring a vape pen for personal use. Pack only what you need for your trip.

Leave cannabis vape cartridges at home. Carrying drugs across an international border can lead to arrest, even if the product is legal where you live.

Are Vape Pens Illegal in Costa Rica?

Overview of Costa Rican Laws Regarding Vape Pens

Costa Rica regulates vapes and e-liquids under Law 10.066. The Ministry of Health published the rules for that law in August 2024.

Sales to minors are prohibited. Vaping is banned in places such as hospitals, workplaces, parking lots, schools, shopping centers, casinos, bars, restaurants, hotels, sports facilities and elevators.

Banned areas must carry "PROHIBIDO FUMAR/VAPEAR" signs, so look for them before you vape.

Tips for Bringing a Vape Pen on a Plane

• Carry-on only: pack the vape and any spare batteries in your carry-on. If your bag is gate-checked, take them out first.
• Prevent activation: switch the device off or lock it, and keep spare batteries in a case away from keys and coins.
• Liquids: keep e-liquid bottles at 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, in your liquids bag. Pressure changes can make tanks leak, so carry them empty or in a sealed bag.
• No vaping on board: don't use or charge your vape on the plane or in the airport terminal.
• Check the destination: confirm the local rules before you go, and follow no-vaping signs once you arrive.

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Sources

• Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping Devices, Transportation Security Administration
• Vapes On A Plane Marketing Kit, Federal Aviation Administration
• Listo el reglamento que regulará el uso de los vapeadores en el país, Ministerio de Salud de Costa Rica
• Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels Rule, Transportation Security Administration