Can You Travel with Vapes out of Singapore Airport

Introduction

When it comes to traveling with vapes, every country has its own rules—but Singapore takes things to an entirely different level. If you’re a traveler wondering whether you can carry a vape out of Singapore Changi Airport, this guide breaks down everything you need to know before you even think about packing that device in your bag.

Let’s dive deep into Singapore’s laws, airport rules, security checks, and what actually happens if you try to depart with a vape in your luggage.

 

1.0 Understanding Singapore’s Strict Stance on Vaping

Singapore isn’t just strict about vaping—it's one of the toughest countries in the world when it comes to vape regulations.

1.1 Why Vapes Are Illegal in Singapore 

Singapore banned vapes to protect public health, especially among youth. The government categorizes vapes as harmful, addictive nicotine delivery systems and wants to prevent them from becoming widespread.

So unlike many countries where vaping is simply regulated, Singapore fully prohibits:

• Import
• Distribution
• Sale
• Possession

Yup—possession alone is illegal.

1.2 Types of Vape Products Considered Illegal

Singapore’s ban covers a wide range of products, including:

• Disposable vapes
• Pod systems (e.g., Relx, Elf Bar)
• Nicotine and non-nicotine e-liquids
• Heat-not-burn devices
• Vape parts, coils, tanks, chargers, and pods

If it’s associated with vaping, it’s illegal—no exceptions.

 

2.0 Can You Bring Vapes Through Singapore Changi Airport?

Short answer: No.

Long answer: Absolutely not.

Even if you’re just passing through, possession of vape devices is still illegal.

2.1 What the Law Says About Possession

Under Singapore’s Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act, anyone caught possessing, buying, or using vapes can face:

• Fines up to SGD 2,000
• Confiscation of the vape device
• Potential investigations

This applies anywhere in Singapore, including Changi Airport.

2.2 Penalties for Carrying Vapes at the Airport

You don’t even have to be using it. Just having it in your:

• Carry-on luggage
• Checked baggage
• Pocket
• Transit bag

…is enough to get you fined.

2.3 Common Misconceptions Among Travelers 

Many tourists assume:

• “I’m leaving Singapore, so it should be okay.”
• “It’s not illegal in my home country.”
• “They won’t check checked luggage.”

Unfortunately, all of these are wrong. Singapore’s laws apply until you have officially exited its borders, which includes all airport zones except international airspace.

 

3.0 Traveling Out of Singapore: Are Vapes Allowed? 

Here’s where many travelers get confused. 

3.1 If You Are Departing Singapore

Even if you’re traveling out of the country, it’s still illegal to possess a vape within Singapore’s borders.

That means from the moment you enter the airport until the moment you're on the plane, possession is an offense.

3.2 What Happens During Security Checks

Changi Airport uses:

• X-ray scanners
• Advanced detection systems
• Random bag checks
• Hand-luggage inspections

If they spot a vape device, you may be:

• Stopped immediately
• Asked to open your bag
• Questioned by ICA (Immigration & Checkpoints Authority)
• Fined on the spot

3.3 Can You Leave with a Vape Without Being Caught?

Technically possible? Maybe.

Worth the risk? Absolutely not.

Changi Airport security is extremely efficient, and they know exactly what to look for. Trying to “hide” a vape often ends badly.

 

4.0 Transit Through Changi Airport with Vapes

Many travelers wonder if they can carry a vape if they’re not entering Singapore.

4.1 What Transit Passengers Need to Know

Even if you never pass immigration, possession of vapes is still illegal. Transit areas are still under Singapore law.

4.2 Are Vapes Confiscated During Transit?

Yes. If airport staff detect a vape during transit screening, it will be seized, and you may face penalties depending on the situation.

 

5.0 Tips for Travelers Departing Singapore 

If you currently have a vape while preparing to fly out, here’s what you need to know.

5.1 What to Do If You Already Have a Vape

The best option?

Dispose of it before reaching the airport. 

Do NOT:

• Try to sneak it through
• Throw it in airport trash cans (CCTV is everywhere)
• Hand it to staff 

Simply get rid of it responsibly before arriving. 

5.2 What You Should Avoid Bringing

Avoid packing:

• Vape devices
• Disposable vapes
• Nicotine pods
• Empty pods
• E-liquid bottles
• Vape chargers

Even “non-nicotine” vapes are illegal in Singapore.

5.3 Safe Alternatives When Traveling

If you’re flying to a vape-friendly country, consider: 

• Buying a vape after landing
• Quick fixes if you’re quitting

 Nicotine gum helps take the edge off for a while. Herbal inhalers are another option—they’re legal and harmless.

 

6.0 What happens after you leave Singapore?

Once you’re out of Singapore, the rules flip. Your destination sets the law.

6.1 Where vaping’s easier 

Some countries don’t sweat it as much:

• Malaysia
• Indonesia
• UAE
• UK
• USA

Thailand’s risky—people have gotten hit with heavy fines.

6.2 Places with tough vape bans

Some spots are just as strict as Singapore:

• Australia (you need a prescription for nicotine vapes)
• India (total ban)
• Hong Kong (can’t import or carry vapes)
• Qatar (complete ban)

Always check the rules before you fly. Laws change, and ignorance won’t save you at the border.

 

Conclusion

Trying to bring vapes out of Singapore? Don’t. The rules here are some of the toughest anywhere, and Changi Airport doesn’t mess around. Whether you’re flying out or just passing through, even having a vape can get you in serious trouble. The fines and hassle just aren’t worth it. 

If you’re headed somewhere that allows vaping, just wait and pick one up when you land. It’s way simpler and keeps your trip stress-free.

 

FAQs

Q1: Can I pack a vape in my checked bag when leaving Singapore?

A1: Nope. It’s illegal everywhere in Singapore, checked bag or not.

Q2: What if I’m only transiting through Changi?

A2: Still not allowed. Singapore’s vape laws cover everyone in the airport. Vapes get confiscated, and you can be fined.

Q3: Does security look for vapes in bags?

A3: Absolutely. Changi scans everything, and they spot vapes all the time.

Q4: Can I mail my vape home instead?

A4: That’s not allowed either. You can’t import or export vapes from Singapore.

Q5: Can I just toss my vape at the airport?

A5: Bad idea. Get rid of it before you reach Changi to avoid getting into trouble.