Vaping on Holiday 2025: What UK Tourists Need to Know + Holiday Checklist
Travel vaping rules vary worldwide; what’s fine in one country can land you in trouble in another. Knowing the laws, customs, risks, and public use rules before you travel is key to vaping safely on holiday.
Want to Vape on Holiday? What You Need to Know First
From strict bans to relaxed acceptance, knowing the laws and customs import risks before you fly is essential. This guide breaks down vaping legality, customs, risks, and public use rules for popular holiday destinations by continent, so you can plan and vape stress-free wherever you go.
What Age Do I Need to Be to Vape Abroad?
Like the UK, most foreign countries do not promote youth vaping or smoking and generally set the minimum age for vaping at 18 or older. However, a major holiday destination, the United States, requires you to be 21 or older to vape legally. Wherever you travel, it’s important to follow local age restrictions to vape responsibly and comply with the law.
Why Vaping May Be Frowned Upon More Than Smoking in Some Countries
Understanding why vaping can sometimes attract more negative attention than smoking helps explain the extra caution you should take when travelling. Various cultural, regulatory, and social factors contribute to this perception, which isn’t always about health risks but often about unfamiliarity and local attitudes.
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| ❓ Lack of Understanding | Many people, including officials, don’t understand what vapes are or how they work. They may assume vaping is "drug-related" or illegal. |
| ⚪ Regulatory Grey Zones | In countries without clear laws on vaping, enforcement can be inconsistent. Some customs or police officers assume vaping is automatically suspicious or banned. |
| 🏥 Public Health Stance | Some governments (e.g. Thailand, India) have taken a strong anti-vape stance to prevent youth uptake, even if they still allow smoking. |
| 🚬 Smoking Seen as ‘Traditional’ | In some cultures, smoking is normalised and historically tied to adult behaviour, whereas vaping is seen as modern, flashy, or rebellious. |
| 🛑 Cultural/Religious Conservatism | In conservative regions, vaping is often viewed as a Western or youth trend and may clash with social norms. |
| 📦 Packaging Confusion | Brightly coloured disposable vapes can resemble novelty items or illicit products, triggering stricter attention from border staff. |
| 👮 Enforcement Bias | Law enforcement may focus more on what they don’t recognise. Unfamiliar vape gear can attract more scrutiny than a known cigarette pack. |
Travel tip: Even if vaping is legal where you’re going, it’s always wise to avoid vaping indoors, near children, or in religious or cultural sites. Being courteous and checking local customs will help you avoid unwanted attention and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
Countries with Categorical Vaping Bans (2025)
These countries have full or near-total bans on vaping. This includes bans on use, import, or possession. Avoid bringing vapes here.
| Country | Notes |
|---|---|
| Thailand | Strict ban. Confiscation and fines are common. Do not vape or bring devices. |
| India | Nationwide ban including sales, use, and import. Risk of seizure and fines. |
| Brazil | Manufacturing and sales are banned. Use is discouraged; enforcement varies. |
| Qatar | Possession and use are banned. Risk of confiscation and prosecution. |
| Singapore | Zero tolerance. Heavy fines and possible jail time. |
| Argentina | Sales banned. Vaping is discouraged and often confiscated. |
| Mexico | Vape importation and sales are banned. Customs checks are active. |
| Nepal | Sale banned. Vaping devices are often confiscated at customs. |
| Nicaragua | Full ban on sales and use. Entry with devices not advised. |
Region-by-Region Vaping Laws (Popular Holiday Spots)
Heading abroad? Here’s a region-by-region breakdown of vaping laws in the most popular holiday destinations for UK travellers.
Europe
| Country | Vaping Legal? | Customs/Import Risk | Public Use Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spain | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Yes, except some beaches/public transport | Barcelona beach ban: use discretion. |
| Greece | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Yes, mostly outdoors | Some public/historic areas restrict use. |
| France | ✅ Legal | Moderate risk | Restricted | No vaping indoors; disposable ban from Feb 2025. |
| Italy | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Yes | Local restrictions in some cities. |
| Portugal | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Yes | Vape-friendly, but follow signage. |
| Turkey | ⚠️ Legal but frowned upon | Moderate risk | Discreet use only | Customs sometimes seize devices; conservative caution. |
| Cyprus | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Yes | Same restrictions as smoking. |
| Croatia | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Yes | Generally relaxed, especially in tourist areas. |
| Malta | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Restricted | No vaping in enclosed public spaces. |
Europe tips: Follow local indoor bans strictly, especially in France and Malta. Carry devices and liquids in original packaging to avoid customs issues.
Africa
| Country | Vaping Legal? | Customs/Import Risk | Public Use Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Yes | Limited regulations; be discreet in public. |
| Egypt | ⚠️ Legal but restricted | Moderate risk | Restricted | Customs can confiscate; avoid public vaping. |
Africa tips: Regulations can be patchy; always check local advice and be cautious with devices at customs.
Asia
| Country | Vaping Legal? | Customs/Import Risk | Public Use Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | ❌ Banned | High risk | No | Confiscation and fines are common. |
| Singapore | ❌ Banned | High risk | No | Zero tolerance, heavy fines. |
| Japan | ⚠️ Legal but heavily regulated | Moderate risk | Restricted | Nicotine e-liquids banned; nicotine pouches treated as medicines. |
| China | ⚠️ Restricted | Moderate risk | Restricted | Regulations are tightening; check carefully. |
Asia tips: Many countries have strict bans or regulations; avoid carrying nicotine liquids and disposables.
North America
| Country | Vaping Legal? | Customs/Import Risk | Public Use Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | ✅ Legal | Moderate risk | Varies by state | Minimum age 21; check state laws carefully. |
| Canada | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Restricted in some provinces | Follow provincial regulations. |
| Mexico | ❌ Banned | High risk | No | Customs are strict; confiscation is common. |
North America tips: US laws vary by state; always research specific state rules and local public vaping bans.
South America
| Country | Vaping Legal? | Customs/Import Risk | Public Use Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil | ❌ Banned (sales) | Moderate to high | No | Sales banned; vaping discouraged; confiscations common at customs. |
| Argentina | ❌ Banned (sales) | Moderate | No | Sales are banned; devices are often confiscated at borders. |
| Chile | ⚠️ Legal but restricted | Moderate | Restricted | Laws are tightening; some local bans on indoor use. |
| Colombia | ✅ Legal | Low | Yes | Vape-friendly, but some local indoor restrictions. |
| Peru | ⚠️ Legal but unclear | Moderate | Restricted | Regulations are evolving; check local rules carefully. |
South America tips: Vaping laws vary widely. Some countries ban sales and imports, while others allow limited use. Always check local regulations and be cautious with customs when travelling.
Oceania
| Country | Vaping Legal? | Customs/Import Risk | Public Use Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | ⚠️ Legal with restrictions | Moderate risk | Restricted | Nicotine e-liquids require a prescription; import limits apply. |
| New Zealand | ✅ Legal | Low risk | Allowed in some areas | Regulated similarly to tobacco products. |
Oceania tips: Australia is strict on nicotine import; New Zealand is more vape-friendly, but check local laws.
What Happens If You Break Vaping Laws Abroad?
Penalties for breaking vaping laws vary greatly depending on the country and the severity of the offense. Here’s what you might face:
- Fines: Many countries impose fines ranging from modest amounts (£50-£200) to heavy penalties (several hundred to thousands of pounds). For example, Thailand and Singapore are known for strict and costly fines for possession or use of vaping products.
- Confiscation: Customs and law enforcement often confiscate devices, liquids, or nicotine products at the border or during your stay. This is common in countries with bans or unclear regulations.
- Legal action: In some cases, especially where vaping is illegal, you could face arrest, prosecution, or even jail time, though this is rarer for tourists who are respectful and compliant.
- Travel restrictions: Repeated offenses could lead to blacklisting or travel bans in certain countries.
Travel tip: Always research and respect local vaping laws to avoid fines or legal trouble. When in doubt, opt for discretion and compliance.
Disposables and Nicotine Pouches: What You Should Know for Your Trip
Disposable vapes remain a popular choice for travellers thanks to their convenience and portability. However, availability and legality vary by country.
In the EU, disposables must meet strict nicotine strength and packaging regulations under the Tobacco Products Directive.
In the US, some states have banned certain disposable brands. In countries with vaping bans, disposables are usually also prohibited.
From February and June 2025, disposable vape sales will be banned in France and the UK. Travellers from the UK should consider refillable or rechargeable devices or nicotine pouches instead.
Nicotine pouches are smokeless and vapour-free, making them ideal in locations with indoor vape bans. They're widely legal but are banned or restricted in:
- Singapore (banned)
- Japan (nicotine pouches treated as medicines)
- Australia (prescription-only)
- UAE (import restrictions may apply)
What Vape to Take on Holiday?
When travelling abroad, choosing the right vape device can make all the difference. Easy-to-use, discreet, and compact devices help you stay compliant with local regulations and avoid unnecessary attention.
Why choose compact, discreet devices?
- Ease of use: Less hassle on the go
- Portability: Fits easily in your pocket
- Discretion: Lower vapour output helps you stay respectful of others
-
Compliance: More likely to meet local limits for nicotine and liquid volume
Recommended IVG travel-friendly devices:
- IVG SAVR : A sleek, compact, disposable-style vape with multiple flavour options
- IVG AIR : A refillable pod system with a top-fill design and long battery life
- IVG Nicotine Pouches : A great alternative in areas where vaping is restricted or banned indoors
Quick Checklist Before You Vape on Holiday
✅ Quick Checklist Before You Vape on Holiday Tap and hold to copy this checklist on mobile, or click and drag to copy on desktop.
✅ Check the legal vaping age at your destination (most 18+, but it’s 21+ in the USA)
✅ Research vape laws where you're going. Is it banned, restricted, or vape-friendly?
✅ Look into customs rules. Can you bring vapes or e-liquids through the border?
✅ Choose a compact, discreet device (disposables banned in the UK from June 2025)
✅ Pack nicotine pouches if you’re visiting places with indoor vape bans
Packing Your Vape Gear
✅ Hand luggage only: Vape devices, batteries (in a case), chargers, tanks/pods
✅ Checked luggage (optional): Sealed bottles of e-liquid — if local rules allow
✅ Keep spare batteries in a case or tape terminals (max 2, under 100 Wh each)
✅ Store e-liquid in 100 ml bottles inside a clear 1 L zip-lock bag
✅ Use a hard vape case to prevent leaks, damage, or crushed devices
✅ Empty tanks or seal pods to avoid air pressure leaks
✅ Bring the right charging cable (USB-C or micro-USB)
✅ Pack gear near the top of your carry-on for easy access at security
When You Land
✅ Double-check local vape laws, even if you looked before
✅ Don’t assume vaping is okay at the airport or in public
✅ Be discreet in conservative or unfamiliar places
✅ Avoid vaping near kids, religious sites, or indoors unless you’re sure
✅ Be aware: breaking rules could mean fines, confiscation, or worse
✅ Keep embassy contact details handy, just in case
✅ Recheck laws before heading home — rules can change while you're away
For full flying advice, check our dedicated travel blog:
✈️ Flying With Vapes In 2025: Airline Rules, Airport Zones, Travel TipsEvery destination has different rules and attitudes toward vaping. When in doubt, always be courteous, ask permission, and follow local laws. That way, your holiday stays safe, fun, and hassle-free.
Share This Guide!
If you found this useful, please share it with fellow vapers, friends, or family travelling this year, especially those heading abroad for the first time.
Privacy & Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information about vaping laws and travel advice as of 2025. Laws and regulations vary by country and can change frequently. We recommend always checking the latest official guidance before travelling or purchasing vape products. This content is not legal advice and does not endorse illegal activities. Always comply with local laws and vape responsibly.
FAQs: Vaping on Holiday in 2025