December 1, 2024

Will a Disposable Vape Set Off a Metal Detector?

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Do vapes set off metal detectors? The short answer is yes. Thanks to all the metal components used in the design, from the battery to the heating element to the various connections, there is a very big chance your vape will set off alarms if you keep it in your pocket through airport security.

However, this doesn’t mean you can’t travel with a hemp-derived vape at all. The key is to remove it from your pocket and securely place it in your carry-on—while following a few other simple rules.

If you’ve got a flight coming up and are concerned about your vape causing a commotion at the metal detector, here’s what you need to know.

Understanding How Metal Detectors Work

For most people, the number one place they are subjected to a metal detector is at the airport during security screening. At airports, metal detectors are sophisticated security devices designed to detect potentially dangerous metallic objects.

Most airports use three types of metal detectors during security:
Walk-through metal detectors for screening passengers
Hand-held devices for secondary, targeted inspections
X-ray machines for baggage scanning

Both the walk-through and hand-hand models use something called pulse induction technology.

While it may sound like something from Star Trek, pulse induction is just a short burst of electricity that generates a brief magnetic field. When a metal object, like a vape pen, passes through this field, it creates its own opposing magnetic field. This secondary field is what triggers the alarm.

Older metal detector models are less precise than contemporary ones, which feature multiple detection zones that can pinpoint the specific location of metal objects (say, in your pocket) for more precise and efficient screening.

But before you start worrying about exposure to pulse inductions and electromagnetic fields, rest assured that these aren’t pumping out harmful radiation. They are completely safe, even if you are a frequent flier.

What Components of a Vape Can Contain Metal?

The better question may be what vape components do not contain metal. Although hundreds of different types of vapes are available today, nearly every part of this device includes metal pieces.

There is the atomizer, which is a coiled heating element made from metal. There is the battery that definitely contains metals like nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal-hydride, lithium-ion, or lithium manganese (depending on the type). Then, there are all the connection pieces, like threads on a 510 vape cart or metal plating between contacts to help with electrical conductivity.

In essence, metal is one of the main materials required for the function of a vape device, which means it can and will set off a metal detector.

So, Will a Disposable Vape Go Off in a Metal Detector?

Will a disposable vape go off in a metal detector? Most likely!

Considering all vapes contain at least some metal components, these will almost always set off a functional metal detector, whether a walk-through or a hand-held version.

Just think about all the times you’ve forgotten to empty your pockets of change, only to have these tiny bits of metal set off the alarms. If you leave a vape in your pocket, this, too, will trigger the metal detector.

So, please do yourself a favor before walking through airport security: Empty your pockets and place everything, including your vape pen, into your carry-on luggage.

Should You Worry? Understanding the Legality of Vapes

In the eyes of the government, not all vapes were created equal. Depending on the source material (hemp vs. marijuana) as well as the state you live in, there are some complexities to the legal question.

So, should you worry? If you are traveling within the U.S. with hemp-derived products, it is legal at the federal level, thanks to the definitions laid out in the 2018 Farm Bill. Hemp, as legally defined, must contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis.

This reclassification removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), allowing it to be cultivated, transported, and enjoyed nationwide. Under these regulations, whether you are flying with hemp-derived edibles or vapes, they are legal.

But there are a few disclaimers you’ll want to keep in mind. First, a handful of states have implemented cannabinoid-specific bans, even for products that come from hemp.

Second, a few states have specifically banned vapes with hemp-derived content.

We always recommend double-checking the local regulations at your destination before flying with any hemp-derived goodies, including vapes.

How To Travel with Your Disposable Vape Without a Hitch

woman closing carry on compartment in a plane

With those important caveats out of the way, it's time for the rules on how to fly with a vape — and not set off the metal detector:

Hemp-Derived Products Only: Stick to hemp-derived vapes, like Hometown Hero’s delta-8 and THCA options, to avoid issues with federal law or airport security. Ensure products are clearly labeled and that you follow regulations at both your point of departure and your destination.
Domestic Travel Only: Crossing international borders with cannabis products, including hemp, is illegal.
Carry-On Only: TSA allows vapes in carry-on luggage only, provided they adhere to battery restrictions (max 100 watts for lithium-ion or a maximum of 2g lithium content for metal batteries).
Separate Batteries: To prevent accidental activation, separate batteries from cartridges, use a protective case, or secure the device.

No Vaping On Route: Keep your vape pen safely stashed away during flight and at the airport. Stick with vaping on private property or in designated zones that allow for cannabis consumption.

Does a vape set off a metal detector if you follow all these rules? Nope! Because you’ll have all vapes tucked into your carry-on rather than in your pockets.

So, when you walk through the metal detector or even get checked by security personnel with the hand-held, your hemp-derived vapes and vape batteries will be carefully tucked inside a bag that went through an x-ray screening machine, not a metal detector.

Safe Travels from Hometown Hero

Do vapes go off in metal detectors? It's clear they do, but now that you know the rules of flying with hemp-derived goodies, you can safely stock up before you depart.

Pack your bag with fan favorites like our strain-specific live resin 5g Vapes or the always tasty flavored 2g Vapes to make your next trip a stress-free one.

Here’s to smooth skies ahead, and Until Next Time, Mind Your Mind.

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.