People trying to quit smoking or dipping have used nicotine pouches as their alternative. This smoke-free, spit-free, and hands-free way of enjoying nicotine has given users the same addictive feeling without thinking about batteries or refills.
If you’re traveling soon and worrying about whether nicotine pouches like Zyn will be allowed on board, read on to learn about bringing Zyn on a plane.
What is Zyn?
Before we answer whether Zyn is allowed on a plane, let’s all get to know what this famous brand offers first. Zyn is nicotine pouches that offer a discreet way of getting your nicotine kick. They are a cleaner alternative for people who want to reduce their reliance on cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Zyn usually comes in eight different flavors and has two strengths (3mg and 6mg), depending on how intense you want to get your nicotine satisfaction.
Their website states that Zyn nicotine pouches contain only food-grade ingredients such as nicotine salt, stabilizers, fillers, pH adjusters, sweeteners, and flavorings. You can take them by simply placing the pouch between your gums and upper lips and letting it sit up for up to an hour. (Read Can I Take A Pencil Sharpener On A Plane)
Advantages of Nicotine Pouches
There are several reasons why people have been switching to this alternative to smoking. Here are some:
They are discreet and convenient
As mentioned, nicotine pouches are a very discreet way to get your nicotine kick. Just pop them into your mouth, let them sit, and they will do their job. They are also very convenient in that you can use them anywhere, even indoors. Since smoking is banned in some indoor areas, nicotine pouches are your best friend in these scenarios.
They taste better than tobacco
While smokers have gotten used to the taste of tobacco, those trying to quit it find the taste of nicotine pouches better. From peppermint to wintergreen, you have many options to choose from that best suit your preference. You can even mix them if you want a unique flavor.
They don’t stain your teeth
Smokers know how much cigarettes can stain their teeth. Switching to nicotine pouches as early as possible will help you save from the long-term effects of cigarettes on your teeth since it doesn’t stain them. It even cuts down the possibility of enamel stains!
They’re user-friendly even to non-smokers
Unlike smoking, you don’t have to burn tobacco with nicotine pouches. This makes them perfect for non-smokers who want a dose of nicotine in their bodies without having to inhale it in their lungs.
Can You Bring Zyn on a Plane?
Don’t worry about bringing your Zyn pouches with you on a plane. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has no restrictions on smoke-free nicotine products, such as nicotine gums, nicotine lozenges, and nicotine pouches like Zyn.
However, note that you should follow TSA’s regulations when it comes to tobacco products. While Zyn doesn’t have tobacco in it, it contains nicotine salt, a pharmaceutical-grade version of the same nicotine salt found naturally in tobacco leaves. (Read Do Hotels Charge For Lost Key Cards)
Things to Keep in Mind When Bringing Zyn on a Plane
Here are some tips and reminders if you’re bringing a nicotine pouch on board:
Place them in your carry-on bag for easy access
TSA allows nicotine products in carry-on luggage and checked bags. Suppose you need your Zyns for easy access; best if you store them in your carry-on. But if you bring two or more of them, you can keep the rest in your checked luggage.
Keep them in pouches
The best way to store your zyns is to keep them in pouches before placing them in your carry-on luggage. You can also put it in your checked bags’ pockets in case you need to access it later without having to open your checked baggage.
Try not to use nicotine products on board
Most airlines allow the use of nicotine pouches like Zyn on board, but some airlines are strict regarding using these products. If you’re unsure whether your airline allows it, just try not to use them during your flight.
Remember, rules about tobacco and nicotine products vary per country
Nicotine and tobacco products, in general, are allowed in the United States, but some countries prohibit them. Best to check on the internet or the airlines’ website whether these products are allowed and what should be done to permit bringing them.
Declare your Zyns at customs
You may have to declare your zyns and other nicotine and tobacco products at customs when you enter the U.S. and other countries. This is because there is only a limited number of tobacco products that you can bring once you land.
If the country prohibits a particular product, it will most likely confiscate it. But if the country allows it, and you have too much of that item, they might only take the excess and let you keep the permitted number of the product.
TSA’s Rules on Tobacco Products
Zyns still fall into this category because of its nicotine salt ingredient. Here’s what you need to know about bringing tobacco on a plane.
TSA permits tobacco products in your carry-on luggage or checked baggage on a plane. This includes cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco products like chewing tobacco, and other similar products. However, remember that what is allowed in the U.S. might not be allowed in other countries. Always bring only the quantities under the limits set by your destination country.
Meanwhile, passengers who will fly into the U.S. must also adhere to the tobacco importation limits of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency.
Here are some of the rules about bringing smokeless tobacco products to other countries:
Canada
Canada doesn’t have restrictions when bringing tobacco chewing tobacco in your carry-on bags and checked baggage.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is also lenient regarding chewing tobacco, which means you can bring them on board.
Other European countries
Snus might be prohibited in Europe (except Sweden), but chewing tobacco is permitted in most European countries.
Australia
It is considered illegal to import smokeless tobacco products in Australia commercially. But bringing chewing tobacco for personal consumption is allowed up to 1.5 kg.
Can You Dip on a Plane?
Like nicotine pouches, dipping is permitted on the plane. However, some airlines might have policies about it since it involves spitting into a receptacle after chewing, which might get other passengers uncomfortable.
TSA’s Rules on E-Cigarettes and Similar Devices
Yes, TSA allows E-cigarettes and atomizers on board. But since they rely on lithium batteries and liquid, there are specific rules that you need to follow.
Lithium Batteries
As we all know, batteries should not be placed in your checked baggage. The same rule applies to atomizers and other battery-operated devices. As per TSA, all electronic smoking devices must be placed in your carry-on bags, not your checked baggage. (Read Can You Bring Super Glue On A Plane)
Liquids
Liquids can be stored either in your carry-on luggage or checked baggage. Take note of the 3-1-1 liquids rule of TSA, where you cannot keep more than 3.4 oz (100ml) in your carry-on. It must go straight to your checked bags if it is more than this amount.
Tips on Bringing E-Cigarettes and Similar Devices
E-cigarettes and atomizers might be small, but they should still be appropriately packed and handled with care. Take note of these tips:
Place your liquid or vape juice in a plastic container
Never use glass bottles when storing your liquids or vape juice in your carry-on bag or checked baggage. Glass bottles are prone to breakage, which might spoil your belongings. Place them in plastic bottles instead and store them in a Ziploc as per TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Keep your lithium battery in a case
Always discharge your batteries and store them safely. Keeping your batteries plugged in at high altitudes can cause them to overheat, leading to a fire. Best to store them in a separate battery case for safety purposes.
Empty your vape and ‘pens’ cartridges
While packing your vapes and pens, ensure you empty their cartridge to avoid liquid leakage. It may leak at low pressure and high elevation, which can ruin your belongings.
Final Thoughts
We all know TSA to be strict, but nicotine pouches are something they can easily allow without going through a rigorous screening process. Like tobacco, nicotine is very commonly used, so you do not have to worry whether airport security will confiscate them.
One thing you only need to consider when bringing them is your destination country. It’s always best to check an airline’s website and your destination country’s regulations to ensure they allow these items. When worst comes to worst, check your bags and surrender your items when needed.
