Can You Take Vapes Abroad?
Nicolas Paterson
25/10/2024 • 4 min readWondering 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.
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.
That’s why it’s essential to 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…
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
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.
FACT 2: Some airports do have designated vaping areas outside of the terminal building.
These areas are frequently signposted. More often than not 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’s not packed correctly or fails to comply with regulation.
Here are the must-follow rules for travelling with a vape:
- The country your 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.
Can you carry vapes on an international flight?
FACT 4: It ALL depends on where you’re flying.
Some countries where vaping is completely legal (e.g., France, Dubai, Spain), yes you can!
Countries with partial bans, such as restrictions on sales (e.g., Turkey), have certain regulations for travellers. International flights to countries where vaping is still illegal (e.g., Thailand) have strict laws that MUST be followed.
FACT 5: Some countries impose severe penalties for vaping violations.
Some countries have banned vaping completely. Some countries include but are not limited to India, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan & Mexico, just to name a few!
Vaping is illegal in Thailand (see our blog post) and 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).
Unfortunately, so many countries don’t allow vaping.
Still hoping that more countries will follow suit and make vaping legal? Us too!
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.
REMEMBER: Different countries have different rules on vaping, so it's important to check local laws before you travel especially if the country your visiting prohibits vaping (more on this below.)
Here’s the truth: Travelling with a vape can be convenient, but it’s essential to stay informed about the regulations of your destination to ensure a fun, hassle-free trip.
Aside from all the legal worries it’s ultra-important to always 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.
Take our Product Guide Quiz and discover which vape kits suit your travel needs perfectly.
Whether you're looking for something compact and discreet or a long-lasting device that can handle long flights, our quiz will match you with the ideal kit for your next adventure! Click below to get started and ensure you're well-prepared for your vaping journey.