Can I bring e-cigarettes during Hong Kong transfers?

At Hong Kong airport, you can carry e-cigarettes, but you must follow some regulations. The main body of the e-cigarette should be stored in hand luggage, and the capacity of the e-liquid should not exceed 100 milliliters. It should also be placed in a reusable and transparent plastic bag, with a total capacity of no more than 1 liter.

Regulations of Hong Kong Airport
Luggage Security Policy
Hong Kong International Airport has very strict security policies for luggage and personal belongings to ensure the safety of all passengers. Firstly, all passengers must pass through the security check area and undergo X-ray scanning of their luggage. In addition, liquids, gases, and gel like items all have specific carrying requirements. For example, a single container of liquid must not exceed 100 milliliters, and the total amount of all liquids must not exceed 1 liter. The liquid must be placed in a transparent plastic bag that can be resealed. Moreover, passengers may also be required to undergo personal security checks in the security area, including manual body searches or passing through metal detector doors.
Specific regulations on electronic cigarettes
Hong Kong International Airport also has clear regulations for carrying electronic cigarettes. Passengers can bring electronic cigarettes into the country, but they must comply with certain requirements. Firstly, e-cigarettes cannot be used in any public areas of the airport, including waiting areas, dining areas, and restrooms. Secondly, the battery of the e-cigarette must be stored separately from the device, and the battery must be placed in a fireproof bag to prevent short circuits. In addition, all e-cigarette liquids, such as nicotine liquids, must comply with liquid carrying regulations, that is, a single container must not exceed 100 milliliters and be placed in a transparent plastic bag. Passengers are also advised to turn off the power of all electronic cigarette devices before takeoff.
How to carry electronic cigarettes correctly
Packaging and Storage of Electronic Cigarettes
When you are preparing to carry e-cigarettes on a plane, the first thing you need to know is how to package and store them correctly. It is best to store the main body of electronic cigarettes in hand luggage rather than checked baggage, as the battery of electronic cigarettes has a potential fire risk. The battery of electronic cigarettes should be removed from the device and stored separately, and it is best to place it in a dedicated battery storage bag or hard plastic box to prevent short circuits caused by friction or collision with other items. To further ensure safety, it is recommended to cover both ends of the battery with tape to prevent contact with other metal objects. Additionally, it is not recommended to carry too many backup batteries, it is best to only bring the required batteries. More information about the storage and carrying of electronic cigarettes can be found in relevant materials.
Requirements for electronic cigarette liquids
Electronic cigarette liquids, typically including nicotine liquids or nicotine free e-liquid, have specific carrying requirements like other liquids. Firstly, the liquid volume in each container cannot exceed 100 milliliters. This means that large bottles of e-liquid should be divided into small bottles at home. All liquid containers should be placed in a reusable, transparent plastic bag with a total capacity of no more than 1 liter. In addition, it is recommended to store the electronic cigarette liquid in a sealed and leak proof bag or container to prevent the liquid from leaking onto other items.
Comparison between other countries/regions and Hong Kong
Electronic cigarette carrying policies in major countries/regions
Each country and region has different policies for carrying e-cigarettes, which mainly depends on local regulations, culture, and public health considerations. For example, the United States allows e-cigarettes to be carried as hand luggage on airplanes, but their use on flights is prohibited. In some countries such as Thailand, the sale, purchase, and even carrying of e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited. Japan has its own unique regulations that allow the use of e-cigarettes, but e-cigarette oil containing nicotine is prohibited from being sold.
Why are there these different regulations
The differences in attitudes towards e-cigarettes among different countries and regions are mainly based on two aspects: public health and cultural traditions. From a public health perspective, although e-cigarettes may be safer than traditional tobacco, their long-term health effects are still controversial. Therefore, some countries may choose stricter policies to reduce their potential risks. On the other hand, culture and social traditions also play a crucial role in decision-making. In some countries, smoking culture has become deeply ingrained in people's hearts, while in other countries, the public may hold a critical attitude towards any form of smoking. These factors, combined with government policies and public pressure, collectively determine the attitudes and policies of various countries towards e-cigarettes.
Passenger experience sharing
Experience of carrying e-cigarettes during actual transit
Mr. Zhang had a layover in Hong Kong on his way from Shanghai to London. He did a lot of preparation work in advance about carrying e-cigarettes, ensuring that his e-cigarettes and e-liquid were packaged according to regulations. When he departed from Shanghai, he did not encounter any problems. However, during the transfer in Hong Kong, he was asked by security personnel for detailed information about electronic cigarette oil. Fortunately, due to Mr. Zhang's prior understanding of the relevant carrying requirements, he quickly obtained approval.
Response strategies when encountering problems
Mr. Zhang's primary strategy when facing problems is to remain calm and polite. He clearly explained how his e-cigarette and e-liquid were packaged, while displaying all the packaging and labels. When asked why he wanted to carry an e-cigarette, he briefly explained that he was trying to quit smoking, and e-cigarettes were a healthier option for him. He also emphasized that he had reviewed the regulations for carrying e-cigarettes and ensured full compliance. In the end, the security personnel satisfactorily released him.