Can you fly with a vape pen to Uruguay? Uruguay bans the import and sale of e-cigarettes, so bringing one is risky. Here is what the law says and how to fly safely.

Can You Fly With a Vape Pen To Uruguay?

Uruguay Air Travel Regulations

On the flight itself, vapes follow the usual rules: carry-on only, never checked. Vapes must never be used or charged on the plane. They are a fire risk, which is also why they are banned from checked bags.

The bigger issue is arriving. According to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids' legal database, Uruguay bans the commercialization, importation and advertising of e-cigarettes.

Consequences of Not Declaring Vape Pens

We could not confirm whether the import ban is enforced against a traveler's personal device, or what penalties apply. Customs officers can seize prohibited items.

The safest choice is to leave your vape at home. If you need to bring one, ask the Uruguayan embassy first.

What You Need To Know Before Flying With A Vape Pen To Uruguay

The TSA allows vapes in carry-on bags only, never in checked bags. Each lithium ion battery must be 100 Wh or less, and you must protect the device from switching on by accident.

Spare batteries also go in your carry-on, with the terminals covered. Nicotine e-liquid bottles must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and fit in your quart-sized liquids bag.

Are Vape Pens Illegal in Uruguay?

Law Governing Vape Pens in Uruguay

Decree No. 534/009 bans the sale, import and advertising of e-cigarettes in Uruguay. So you can't legally buy a vape there.

Decree No. 299/2017 extends Uruguay's smoking bans to e-cigarettes. That covers enclosed public places, enclosed workplaces and public transport, plus the outdoor grounds of health and education facilities.

Penalties Associated With Vaping In Uruguay

The UK Foreign Office says it is illegal to smoke, including e-cigarettes, in enclosed public places such as restaurants, shopping centers and cinemas. We could not confirm the fine amounts.

Cautionary Advice about Vaping Laws In Uruguay

If you do have a vape in Uruguay, never use it indoors in public places or on public transport. Laws change, so check with the embassy before you travel.

Tips for Bringing a Vape Pen on a Plane

With a bit of preparation, flying with a vape pen is simple. Here are some tips:

• Check the rules before you fly: Read the TSA rules and your airline's policy. Airlines can limit how many devices you carry.
• Carry-on only: Keep your vape and spare batteries with you in the cabin. If your bag is checked at the gate, take them out first.
• Prevent accidental activation: Switch the device off or lock it, and use a case. Cover spare battery terminals or use a battery case.
• Pack e-liquid properly: Bottles of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less go in your liquids bag. Tanks can leak with pressure changes, so carry them empty or nearly empty.
• No vaping or charging on board: Wait until you are off the plane and in a place where vaping is allowed.
• Check connections: If you change planes in another country, check its rules too.

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Sources

• Uruguay: E-Cigarettes, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (Tobacco Control Laws)
• Uruguay travel advice, UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
• Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping Devices, Transportation Security Administration
• Vapes On A Plane Marketing Kit, Federal Aviation Administration