Lighters are banned on cruise ships, with no exceptions for any type
You cannot bring a lighter of any kind onto a cruise ship — not in your carry-on bag, not in your checked luggage, and not in your cabin after you board. This rule applies to disposable lighters, refillable lighters, zippo-style lighters, and novelty lighters shaped like other objects. The cruise lines enforce this across the board because lighters are classified as fire hazards in the confined space of a ship.
If you smoke and need a lighter during your cruise, you have two options: buy one at the ship's onboard shop once you are at sea, or ask the front desk for a light when you need one. Many cruise lines sell lighters in their retail stores, and crew members will light cigarettes for passengers who ask. Some ships also have designated smoking areas where staff can information you.
The ban includes matches as well. Matches are also prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage on cruise ships, for the same fire-safety reason.
Key Takeaways
- All types of lighters — disposable, refillable, and novelty — are banned from cruise ships in both carry-on and checked luggage.
- You can purchase a lighter at the ship's onboard shop once you board, or ask crew members to light cigarettes for you.
- Matches are also prohibited, so do not pack them in any luggage.
- This rule is enforced by all major cruise lines and applies to all passengers without exception.
- Attempting to bring a lighter through security will result in confiscation, and you may face additional consequences depending on the cruise line's policy.
Why cruise lines prohibit lighters
Cruise ships are closed environments where fire spreads quickly and evacuation is complicated. A lighter in a cabin, a common area, or a storage hold poses a risk that outweighs the convenience of allowing them. The U.S. Coast Guard and international maritime regulations classify lighters as dangerous goods on ships, which is why the ban is universal across the cruise industry.
The risk is not just about intentional use. A lighter left in a pocket, dropped in a cabin, or exposed to heat can ignite accidentally. In a ship's tight quarters, a small fire can become dangerous fast. Cruise lines treat this the same way airlines do — the hazard is real enough that the item is straightforward not allowed.
What happens if you try to bring a lighter
Security will confiscate any lighter found during the boarding process. You will not get it back. Some cruise lines note this in their pre-boarding materials; others do not make a big announcement, but the outcome is the same.
If a lighter is discovered in your cabin after you board, the consequences depend on the cruise line's policy. Most will confiscate it without further action. However, if the lighter is found in circumstances that suggest it was used or posed an when ready danger, you could face additional penalties, including being asked to leave the ship at the next port or being banned from future cruises with that line.
Buying a lighter onboard
Most cruise ships sell lighters in their retail shops, usually located near the casino, pool deck, or main shopping area. Prices are higher than what you would pay on land — expect to pay $3 to $8 for a basic disposable lighter, depending on the cruise line and the ship.
You can also ask your cabin steward or any crew member for a light. They are accustomed to this request and will help you. Some ships have designated smoking areas on the pool deck or in designated lounges where crew members are posted and can information smokers.
Other fire-related items that are also banned
Beyond lighters and matches, cruise lines prohibit other fire-starting or fire-related items. Candles are banned — this includes decorative candles, scented candles, and birthday candles. Flamethrowers, blowtorches, and any device designed to produce an open flame are prohibited.
Fireworks, sparklers, and any pyrotechnic devices are also banned. Some cruise lines extend the ban to items like self-heating food containers or chemical hand warmers that generate heat through a chemical reaction, though policies vary by line. Check your specific cruise line's prohibited items list before packing.
Items that look like lighters but are allowed
Electronic lighters — the kind that use a battery and produce a spark or heating element instead of a flame — are sometimes allowed, but this varies by cruise line. Some lines permit them; others do not. The safest approach is to contact your cruise line directly before packing one, because security may confiscate it even if you believe it is permitted.
USB rechargeable lighters and plasma lighters fall into this gray area. Rather than risk losing the item or delaying your boarding, leave these at home and buy a standard lighter onboard if you need one.
Planning ahead for smokers
If you smoke, plan to purchase a lighter once you board. Budget $5 to $10 for this, and know that the onboard shop may not be open when ready when you board — it typically opens within a few hours. If you board in the evening and the shop is closed, ask your cabin steward for information or visit the front desk.
Some smokers bring a lighter in their checked luggage anyway, hoping it will not be found. This is not recommended. Security screens checked luggage, and confiscation is certain. The time and frustration of losing the item is not worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a lighter in my checked luggage if I pack it carefully?
No. Security screens all checked luggage, and lighters are confiscated regardless of how they are packed. Do not attempt this — you will lose the lighter and gain nothing.
What if I need a lighter for a medical device or camping equipment?
Cruise ships do not make exceptions for lighters, even for medical or practical purposes. If you use a lighter for a medical device, contact your cruise line before boarding to discuss alternatives. For camping or outdoor activities on shore excursions, you can purchase a lighter onboard and bring it with you off the ship.
Are electronic or USB lighters allowed?
Policies vary by cruise line. Some allow them; others do not. Contact your cruise line directly before packing one. If you are unsure, leave it at home and buy a standard lighter onboard instead.
Can I bring matches instead of a lighter?
No. Matches are also prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage on cruise ships for the same fire-safety reasons as lighters.
What if I forgot and packed a lighter by accident?
It will be confiscated during security screening. You will not be able to retrieve it. Once onboard, you can purchase a lighter at the ship's shop or ask crew members for information.