You’ve booked your holiday! Your passport is in date and your holiday clothes are ready for packing. But have you checked your destination’s tolerance of vaping?
Not every country in the world permits vaping, so the first thing you should do is check the legalities of vaping at your chosen destination.
Some countries apply the same restrictions as those which exist for smoking. Some countries ban the sale but not the possession of e-cigarettes, or ban nicotine-containing liquids but not nicotine-free liquids. In others countries, vaping is banned completely: sale, import and use. The main reason for these restrictions is a 2014 report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), which highlighted their concerns about e-cigarette use. Laws around vaping are constantly evolving, so it’s worthwhile doing research to ensure you’re up-to-date with what’s permitted, and where.
Visitors and local communities in some of the countries where vaping is illegal report having no issues using their e-cigs or vaping devices. However, it is still illegal, so before you risk packing your device, let alone using it, use caution and check the rules before you leave.
Failure to respect the laws could result in the confiscation of your vape equipment, fines or even up to 10 years in prison.
Most European countries have the same rules for vaping as they do smoking. So, if smoking in a bar or restaurant is prohibited, it’s likely that vaping is too.
Vapes on a Plane
Before you head off to the airport, it’s worth double checking its vaping policy too. Although rules vary, most UK airports permit vaping only in designated smoking areas, which means that vaping beyond security is a no-no.
Also check the airline policy about whether or not you are permitted to carry your device, to avoid having it confiscated. Some airlines are relaxed about you taking your kit in your hand luggage, but be warned that having a sneaky vape in the plane’s toilets can trigger smoke sensors, and you could face a hefty fine or even imprisonment.
Of course, it’s safer to keep your device and accessories on you to prevent damage, and minimise the risk of losing them along with your luggage – but don’t hide your kit. You can place it alongside other devices in security baskets, but keeping your kit in full view will help allay suspicions about what it is.
If you’re hiring a vehicle, don’t assume that it’s OK to vape in your hire car. Check with your hire company in case vaping on the go affects your insurance.
And finally, it’s worth stocking up before you go. Take your favourite flavours with you and have fun!
Countries where vaping is illegal:
- Argentina
- Brazil
- Egypt
- Indonesia
- Lithuania
- Malaysia
- Mexico
- Qatar
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Turkey
- United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
