CAN YOU VAPE ON AMTRAK?

If you’re planning a rail trip and wondering, can you vape on Amtrak? the short answer is no. Amtrak maintains a strict no-smoking policy that includes electronic cigarettes and all vape devices. Whether you’re commuting on a regional route or traveling cross-country, vaping is not permitted onboard trains or inside stations.

Here’s what travelers need to know before bringing a vape on their next Amtrak journey.

Amtrak’s Official Vaping Policy

Amtrak enforces a comprehensive smoke-free policy that covers:

• Traditional cigarettes
• E-cigarettes and disposable vapes
• Vape pens and pod systems
• Cannabis and THC vaporizers

Vaping is treated the same as smoking under Amtrak rules. The ban applies to:

• All train cars (including restrooms and sleeper cars)
• Café and dining cars
• Station platforms owned or operated by Amtrak
• Indoor station areas

There are no designated smoking or vaping areas onboard Amtrak trains.

Why Is Vaping Banned on Amtrak?

Amtrak’s smoke-free policy aligns with federal transportation standards and public health considerations. The key reasons include:

• Passenger comfort: Vapor clouds can disturb other travelers in enclosed spaces.
• Air quality control: Train ventilation systems are not designed for vapor emissions.
• Operational safety: Vapor can trigger onboard smoke detection systems.
• Regulatory compliance: Many states and municipalities restrict indoor vaping, and Amtrak operates across state lines.

Amtrak adopted a 100% smoke-free policy in 2019, removing previously available smoking stops on long-distance routes.

What Happens If You Vape on Amtrak?

Passengers who violate Amtrak’s no-smoking policy may face:

• Immediate warnings from conductors
• Removal from the train at the next stop
• Potential fines
• Travel disruptions without refund

Amtrak crew members are authorized to enforce the policy, and repeat violations can lead to further penalties.

Can You Bring a Vape on Amtrak?

Yes, you can bring a vape device in your carry-on bag. However:

• The device must remain unused during the trip
• Lithium-ion batteries should be stored safely
• E-liquids should be properly sealed to prevent leaks

While Amtrak does not publish the same battery restrictions as airlines, standard battery safety practices apply.

Does the Policy Apply to Medical or CBD Vapes?

Yes. Amtrak’s policy does not distinguish between nicotine, CBD, or THC devices. All forms of vaping are prohibited onboard.

Additionally, cannabis remains illegal under federal law, and Amtrak is a federally regulated transportation provider. Even in states where recreational or medical marijuana is legal, using cannabis on Amtrak property is not permitted.

What About Smoking Stops on Long-Distance Routes?

In the past, some long-distance routes offered brief smoking breaks. That is no longer the case. Since implementing its updated smoke-free policy, Amtrak does not schedule dedicated smoking stops.

Passengers on extended trips should plan accordingly.

Can You Vape at Amtrak Stations?

Policies vary depending on whether the station is:

• Owned and operated by Amtrak
• Shared with local transit authorities
• Privately managed

In most cases, indoor vaping is prohibited. Outdoor areas may follow local city or state regulations. Always check posted signage at the specific station.

How Amtrak’s Policy Compares to Airlines

Like major U.S. airlines, Amtrak treats vaping the same as smoking. The transportation industry broadly enforces vape-free policies in enclosed passenger environments, including:

• Commercial flights
• Intercity buses
• Passenger rail systems

This reflects a wider regulatory trend prioritizing smoke-free public transport.

Conclusion

You cannot vape on Amtrak trains or in most Amtrak-operated stations. The company enforces a strict smoke-free policy that includes all electronic cigarettes and vape products. Violations may result in removal from the train and additional penalties.

If you’re traveling with a vape, keep it stored securely and plan to use it only in legally permitted areas outside Amtrak property.

FAQs

1. Can you vape in the bathroom on Amtrak?

No. Vaping in restrooms is strictly prohibited and may trigger smoke detectors, leading to immediate action by train staff.

2. Are there smoking cars on Amtrak trains?

No. Amtrak eliminated all smoking cars and designated smoking areas in 2019.

3. Can you use nicotine pouches instead of vaping on Amtrak?

Yes. Nicotine pouches and other smokeless, vapor-free products are generally permitted since they do not produce smoke or vapor. However, they must be used discreetly.

4. Can you step off the train to vape during a stop?

There are no official smoking breaks. While some longer stops may allow passengers to briefly disembark, vaping on the platform may still be prohibited depending on station rules.

5. What if I’m traveling overnight in a sleeper car?

The no-vaping rule still applies. Sleeper accommodations do not allow smoking or vaping under any circumstances.