Yes and no. It depends on the type of lighter.
The simple rule here is that you can bring disposable lighter such as butane lighters (Bic-Type) and zippo lighters in carry-on luggage. They are allowed in checked bags, too, but with special instructions. All other types of lighters are not allowed on a plane.
The following discussion is with reference to TSA rules for American flights. The rules and regulations may vary depending on the country you are traveling to. Don’t forget to check with the airline and relevant authorities in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Read on to learn more about common lighters and whether they are allowed on a plane.
Disposable and Zippo Lighters
You can take them in carry-on bags. Zippo lighters have liquid fuel, so ensure they are in good condition and not leaking. It is not a TSA requirement but for the safety of other items in checked bags. Moreover, you can only take one disposable or zippo-type lighter in carry-on bags.
Please note that lighters that use liquid fuel but don’t have an absorbent lining are forbidden.
You can carry zippo and disposable lighters in checked bags if they are empty; they don’t have fuel. You can also carry up to two fueled lighters per person if they adhere to the Department of Transportation exemption. The lighters must be properly enclosed in a DOT-approved case.
Arc Lighters, Plasma Lighters, Electronic Lighters, E-Lighters
These lighters are allowed in carry-on bags but not in checked luggage. However, TSA has issued special instructions to pack these lighters as carry-on items. You must ensure that the heating element in these lighters is not accidentally activated while on board. Here are a few preventive measures to avoid any mishap with these lighters.
- Removing the battery
- Placing the lighter in a proactive cover or casing
- Safety lock
- Lock on the activation button
Moreover, each lithium-ion battery’s rating must not exceed 100Wh (watt-hour); for lithium metal batteries, the lithium content must not exceed 2 grams. Further, recharging devices and/or the batteries on board is not permitted.
Gun Lighters
Gun lighters are not allowed in carry-on and checked bags.
Lithium Battery Powered Lighters
They are allowed in carry-on bags but not in checked bags.
Torch Lighters
Torch lighters are not permitted in carry-on bags and checked bags. Torch lighters are commonly used for cigars and pipes. These lighters create a thin, needle-like flame that is hotter and more intense than common lighters. The temperature in torch lighters may reach up to 2,500 F.
Can I take Lighter Fluid on a Plane?
No. Lighter fluid is not allowed on a plane. You cannot take it in carry-on or checked bags.
Can I bring Safety Matches on a Plane?
You can bring one book of safety (non-strike anywhere) matches as a carry-on item, but all matches are not allowed in checked bags. Moreover, strike-anywhere matches are not allowed in carry-on or checked luggage.
Please note that some airlines may not allow safety matches. So, check airline laws and relevant authorities of the destination country.
Can I carry Empty Lighters on a Plane?
The DOT does not characterize an empty lighter (absolutely no fuel or vapors) as a hazardous material. There is no restriction on the number of empty lighters you can carry, but it can delay security clearance. FAA recommends packing empty lighters in checked baggage with a note saying they contain no fuel.
Can I send Lighters, Lighter Fluid, or Butane Refills via mail?
No. Lighters containing fuel or fuel residue, lighter fluid, and butane refills are also forbidden in the mail.
What is a DOT case for Lighters?
DOT cases are lighter cases approved by the US Department of Transpiration for carrying lighters safely in checked baggage. It allows you to travel with lighters that contain fluid. For example, you can carry up to 2 disposable (Bic-type) or zippo lighters in a DOT-approved case.
You can also carry torch lighters in DOT-approved cases. Major lighter manufacturers such as Zippo, Colibri, and Prometheus have secured DOT permits for making DOT-approved lighter containers. These cases are available online and in specialty stores.
Can I carry Lighters in my Pocket?
Yes. You can carry lighters in your pocket on a plane. However, you must never light it on a plane. It is illegal, and strict legal action will be taken against you.
Can I bring Cigarettes and Cigars on a Plane?
Yes. You can carry cigarettes and cigars in both carry-on and checked bags. However, there is limit on the number of cigarettes and cigars you can take with you.
Can I take Lighter on a UK Plane?
You can take one butane lighter, zippo lighter, or a box of safety matches in carry-on luggage.
Can I bring Lighter on a Canadian Flight?
You can carry disposable and non-torch lighters (zippo) in carry-on baggage. CATSA instructs to check with the carrier to confirm if you can take lighters in checked baggage.
Conclusion
We have explained the types of lighters you can take on a plane. You can refer to TSA’s website to see which items you can take on a plane.