Can You Take BIC Lighters on a Plane? Read This Before You Fly or Buy

In 2023, over 180 million BIC lighters were sold worldwide (Statista), but many brands still misunderstand their marketing/promotional impact.
Let’s break it down..

Frequently Asked Questions

Are BIC lighters allowed on planes?

Yes, one BIC-type lighter is allowed in carry-on, not in checked baggage.

Can BIC lighters go on planes?

Yes, but only in your pocket or carry-on. Never in hold luggage.

Can BIC lighters explode?

Not under normal use. Explosions occur only under extreme external heat or tampering.

Are BIC lighters safe?

Yes. They meet international safety standards and are child-resistant.

Can I brand BIC lighters legally in the EU?

Yes, using certified suppliers who comply with REACH and ISO safety.

Is it legal to give away lighters at EU events?

Yes, as long as the event permits and age restrictions are respected.

What industries use branded lighters?

Music, nightlife, cannabis, automotive, tobacco and fashion

What’s the average lifespan of a BIC lighter?

1,000–3,000 ignitions depending on model. Often lasts 2–4 months with daily use.

Why BIC Lighters Work for B2B Merchandise?

  • Compact, high-retention items with strong user loyalty.
  • Ideal for music events, bars, expos or youth fashion drops.
  • Inexpensive to produce in bulk, especially with EU-based suppliers.
  • 9/10 consumers keep branded lighters for more than 3 months (Promotional Products Association International, 2022).

Can BIC Lighters Be Taken on Planes?

According to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and TSA (US) guidelines:

  • Yes, you can carry one BIC-type lighter with you during a flight.
  • No, it’s not allowed in checked luggage due to fire risk.
  • Refillable or torch-style lighters are often banned entirely. ZIPPO type is allowed without the liquid.
  • Source: TSA.gov

This means:

  • You can legally hand out BIC lighters at EU events—even to international guests—as long as they follow carry-on regulations.

Are BIC Lighters Safe?

  • BIC lighters pass ISO 9994 safety standards and undergo over 50 quality checks.
  • Built-in safety valves and child-resistant systems prevent malfunction.
  • Explosion risks occur only under extreme heat (e.g., left on a car dashboard in summer).

Conclusion: Yes, BIC lighters are one of the safest flame products for promotional use.

What to Know Before Ordering Branded BICs in the EU

  • Work with EU-based suppliers who meet REACH compliance and flame-retardant ink requirements.
  • Standard delivery time for custom BICs is about 14 working days.
  • MOQ (minimum order quantity) starts at 300 units.
  • Bulk pricing: approx. €1,5 per unit depending on color and print.

How to Resell Branded BIC Lighters for Extra Revenue

Branded BIC lighters aren’t just giveaways, they can be a low-effort profit generator when sold individually. Here’s how smart brands and event organizers resell them:

  • High Perceived Value: Even though bulk pricing is under €2, people are used to paying €3–€4 per lighter at venues, bars or events.
  • Impulse-Friendly: Small size and daily utility make them an easy upsell at checkout, merch or pop-up stands.
  • Limited Editions Sell Fast: Collaborations, tour dates or artist graphics add collector appeal, especially in music, tattoo or smoke spaces.
  • Bundles Work: Pair lighters with rolling papers, filters, stickers or keychains for €5–€10 packs to raise average order value.

Typical margin: 100–300%.

With the right design and placement, selling just 100 lighters at €2.50 covers your entire production cost and more.

What Now?

Want custom BIC lighters for your next event, fast and stress-free?

We help EU-based brands design, print, an deliver certified, bulk-priced lighters, with full safety compliance.

👉 Book your FREE consultation today or:

ADAM WROBEL (OWNER)

AHEAD PROD.

+420 727 944 046
info@aheadprod.com

LET'S MAKE YOUR BRAND VISIBLE!