Can I Fly to Costa Rica With a Vape Pen?

If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica and you vape, you may be wondering if you can bring your vape pen on the plane.

The short answer is yes, you can fly to Costa Rica with a vape pen, as long as it is in your carry-on bag.

Vapes are not allowed in checked luggage. Here is what to know before you pack.

Bringing A Vape Pen In Your Carry-On Bag

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens passengers and their bags at US airports before international flights.

According to the TSA, electronic smoking devices are allowed only in carry-on baggage. They are not allowed in checked bags.

TSA does not require your vape to be charged. It does require you to take effective measures to stop the heating element from switching on by accident, and a TSA officer may inspect your vape pen.

Packing Your Vape Pen In Your Checked Luggage

Don't pack your vape pen in checked luggage. TSA does not allow it, because lithium batteries need to stay in the cabin where crew can deal with a fire.

If your bag gets gate-checked, take the vape and any spare batteries out first. Also check the rules of the country you're traveling to.

In Costa Rica, vaping is legal for adults, but it is regulated and banned in many places.

Guidance From TSA

TSA says each lithium-ion battery must be 100 watt-hours or less, which covers almost all vape batteries. Check with your airline on any limit on the number of devices.

Lock or switch off your vape, and store spare batteries in a case away from coins, keys and other metal objects.

Can I Fly to Costa Rica With a Cannabis Oil Cartridge?

TSA's vape rules cover the device and its battery. They don't make cannabis cartridges legal to carry.

TSA officers don't search for drugs, but if they find an illegal substance, they refer it to law enforcement. This applies to both carry-on and checked luggage.

Do not bring cannabis products into Costa Rica. Carrying drugs across an international border can lead to arrest.

Can I Buy Vape Pen and Cartridges in Costa Rica?

Yes, adults can buy vapes in Costa Rica. The country regulates vapes and e-liquids under Law 10.066, and its health ministry published rules for the law in August 2024.

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

Where Can I Buy a Vape Pen in Costa Rica?

Vape pens and e-liquids are sold by retailers that follow Costa Rica's vape rules. Bring photo ID, since sellers must not sell to minors.

Selection may be limited, so bring the coils or pods your device uses in your carry-on if you rely on a specific model.

Can I Fly to Costa Rica with a Vape Pen?

In short, yes, you can fly to Costa Rica with a vape pen, as long as it is in your carry-on bag. Keep it locked or switched off.

Be ready for a TSA officer to inspect it. Once in Costa Rica, don't vape in the places where it is banned.

Leave cannabis products at home. With a little planning, you can enjoy your trip to Costa Rica without problems.

Costa Rica Vape FAQ

Can I bring a vape pen on a plane to Costa Rica?

Yes, in your carry-on bag only. TSA does not allow vapes in checked luggage, and you must prevent the device from switching on by accident.

Is it legal to use a vape pen in Costa Rica?

Yes, for adults. Costa Rica regulates vapes and bans vaping in places such as workplaces, bars, restaurants, hotels and schools.

Can I buy a vape pen and cartridges in Costa Rica?

Yes, adults can buy vapes and e-liquids. Sales to minors are prohibited.

Can I fly from the US to Costa Rica with a vape pen and a cartridge with cannabis oil?

Bring the vape pen in your carry-on, but leave cannabis cartridges at home. Don't carry cannabis products across an international border.

Sources

• Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping Devices, Transportation Security Administration
• Listo el reglamento que regulará el uso de los vapeadores en el país, Ministerio de Salud de Costa Rica
• Medical Marijuana, Transportation Security Administration