Can You Take Vapes Abroad?

NP

Nicolas Paterson

25/10/20244 min read
Man in sunglasses and fedora vaping on the beach

Wondering Where & When You Can Vape Abroad?

Let’s talk about the top 5 facts you need to know about vaping abroad!

Vaping on holiday is one of the most prevalent areas of concern for those who have just started vaping. When you give up smoking you’ll quickly realise that in certain countries and places around the world how much easier it is to smoke rather than vape.

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Did you know that vaping laws vary from country to country? Most countries throughout Europe follow a set of vaping guidelines that are regulated by the laws of the European Union Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). These laws limit the legal amount of nicotine concentration to a maximum of 20 mg/ml. All e-liquid containers are required to have a max capacity of 10ml (when they contain nicotine) & health warnings are required on all packaging.

Public vaping rules can be similar to smoking restrictions in many countries with lots of bans in public spaces, meaning you won’t be able to vape in bus stations, train stations and restaurants too! Some countries even impose severe penalties for vaping violations.

Learn all the most important facts about vaping abroad

These facts could save you time, money, and all the possible headaches of bringing your vape kit abroad – or worse still, into a country where you can’t vape! Let’s break down the most common questions about vaping abroad the key facts everyone should know…

close up of woman in summer hat vaping over lunch with a friend

Here’s some of the most common questions about vaping abroad: Can you vape in airports? Can you take vapes abroad? Can you take vapes on holiday? Can you vape in airports? Let's get into it.

Fact 1: Vaping Is Not Permitted in most UK Airports

This include terminal buildings and on planes. Some airports do have designated vaping areas outside of the terminal building.

  • On planes: Vaping is not permitted on any plane.
  • After security: Vaping is not permitted anywhere in the airport after passing through security.

Need something to get you through that layover?

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Fact 2: Some Airports Do Have Designated Vaping Areas Outside the Terminal

These areas are frequently signposted. Usually they’re located a few minutes away from the entrance/arrival/departure gates. If there is no designated vaping area, you can ask customer services.

Fact 3: Airport Security Can Confiscate Your Vape If It Fails to Comply with Regulations

It's true, and here are the must-follow rules for travelling with a vape:

  • The country you're going to may restrict vaping, so make sure you check beforehand.
  • You MUST turn off all vape devices and it’s got to be packed into your carry-on, not your check-in luggage.
  • You can only bring a vaping device in your checked luggage if the battery is removed
  • Disposable vapes should be in a zip-top bag with your liquid items.
  • Bottles of vape juice must be 1 oz (about 30 ml) or smaller.
  • Remember to pack spare batteries in padded carriers.

If you still need further info you should check with your airport to confirm their vaping policies before setting/jetting off.

woman in red vaping with her arm resting on male companion

FACT 4: Can You Carry Vapes on International Flights?

There are some countries where vaping is completely legal, like France, Dubai, and Spain.

Some countries, like Turkey, have partial bans that include restrictions on sales and have certain regulations for travellers. International flights to countries where vaping is still illegal (like Thailand) have strict laws that MUST be followed.

FACT 5: Some Countries Impose Severe Penalties for Vaping Violations

Some countries have banned vaping completely. These countries include but are not limited to India, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Mexico, just to name a few.

Vaping is illegal in Thailand, and it has some of the most stringent vaping laws worldwide. The sale, import, and possession of e-cigarettes and vaping products are banned. Those caught with e-cigarettes can face fines of up to 30,000 THB (~$900) and jail time of up to 10 years. The penalties are severe, and tourists have been detained and fined for vaping. Tourists are advised not to bring vaping products to Thailand to avoid legal consequences.

This differs from Turkey where the sale and import of vaping products are banned, though personal use is allowed.

Vaping is now legal in Dubai and the UAE since the ban was lifted in 2019. E-cigarettes and e-liquids must meet the standards set by the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (ESMA).

Traveller Tip: Research local laws before travelling with e-cigarettes to avoid legal issues. Vaping products are often subject to health regulations, including limits on nicotine content.

man exhaling from a vape while sitting at a busy train station at dusk

Consider the practicalities of vaping while travelling

If you're heading to a destination with limited access to vape supplies, it’s worth bringing extra e-liquids, coils, or even spare batteries to keep your kit running smoothly throughout your trip. Be sure to pack everything securely to avoid leakage or damage during transit, and keep your vape in your carry-on as most airlines won’t allow e-cigarettes in checked luggage.

If you’re unsure what type of vape kit is best for travel or you need a kit that complies with international nicotine limits, we’ve got that covered too.

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