Are you tired of having to constantly research the regulations and laws surrounding e-cigarettes and vaping every time you travel? Look no further, as we have compiled the ultimate vape travel guide for you. From Asia to Europe to the Americas, we've got you covered.
Asia
China
The sale of e-cigarettes is lawful in China, according to tobacco control rules. There are, however, particular regulations in force. One major restriction is the prohibition on the selling of e-cigarettes with flavours other than #tobacco.
Japan
Electronic cigarette cartridges and liquids containing #nicotine are considered medicinal products in Japan and are governed by pharmaceutical affairs legislation. Customs permits up to #120ml of liquid for one month's use without requiring a medication supervision certificate while bringing them into the country for use. Furthermore, electronic cigarette cartridges and liquid atomization devices are categorised as medical devices, and only one device (or two if a spare is required) can be cleared through customs.
South Korea
E-cigarettes containing nicotine are considered tobacco products in South Korea, and their sale to anyone under the age of 19 is forbidden. Health warnings about harmful substances must be included on packaging and in marketing. Except in designated smoking locations, vaping is not permitted in public places or on public transportation.
Indonesia
Indonesia's stance on vaping has shifted significantly. Previously prohibited, it resulted in a thriving black market that authorities inexplicably accepted. However, the government legalised vaping in 2018, making Indonesia the first Southeast Asian country to do so. This shift not only strengthened the local market, but also established Indonesia as an important Asian destination for vape exhibits and industry seminars.
Vietnam
Vaping remains completely unregulated in Vietnam, with no limits on e-liquids, flavours, or vaping devices. These products currently do not have any required quality or safety criteria.
Singapore
Since February 2018, vaping has been completely prohibited in Singapore. Electronic cigarettes (vapes) and related products are prohibited in the country, as are their possession, usage, and purchase.
Thailand
Thailand has outlawed vaping since 2014, including the use of mods, liquids, and #disposable vapes. The prohibition is strict with no exceptions or excuses, even for personal use. Individuals who are caught may face significant punishment from the authorities.
Europe
Spain
The sale of electronic cigarettes in Spain is governed by the #TPD (Tobacco Products Directive) laws, which impose specific criteria. E-liquids cannot contain more than 20mg of nicotine per mL and cannot be marketed in bottles bigger than 10 mL. Vapes can only be sold in tanks or cartridges with a maximum volume of 2 ml, and larger tanks or cartridges are not permitted. Products must carry nicotine warnings and dissuade nonsmokers from using them. The contents must be listed in decreasing order of concentration on the packaging, as well as the nicotine strength. If you prefer larger tanks or disposables with more than 600 puffs, you need bring your supplies to Spain because they are not available locally.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has a relatively relaxed stance on e-cigarettes, with few restrictions on their use. However, the sale of e-cigarettes to minors is prohibited, and there are some restrictions on advertising and promotion.
Iceland
Surprisingly, Iceland is a relatively pro-vaping country. They have enacted consumer-friendly vaping legislation. The regulation allows for advertising, and restaurants and small companies can determine whether or not to allow vaping on their premises. If you enjoy vaping, Iceland provides a pleasant setting in which to indulge in your passion.
Germany
Vaping laws in Germany vary greatly because they are not covered by the German Tobacco Products Act. Vaping is often permitted in certain restaurants and public places. However, vaping is prohibited under the private policy of Deutsche Bahn, a well-known public transportation operator.
France
Electronic cigarettes and other vaping items, including #liquids and devices, have been subject to special regulatory requirements since May 20, 2016, when Directive 2014/40/EU went into effect. These regulations cap the nicotine amount present in e-liquids at 20 mg/ml, and they only permit 10 ml-sized refill containers.
Italy
In Italy, nicotine vapes, often known as e-cigarettes, are legal. The sale of vaping devices is restricted to people above the age of 18, and packaging must include health warnings. Furthermore, the allowed nicotine amounts in these products are governed by strict rules.
Greece
Greece follows the rules outlined in the EU Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) of 2014. According to this order, vaping is permissible in areas where smoking is permitted.
Portugal
Portugal complies with the rules set forth in the 2014 EU Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). In line with smoking bans, using nicotine-containing e-cigarettes is not permitted in public spaces or when using public transportation.
Netherlands
In an effort to prevent kids and teenagers from starting to vape, flavoured e-cigarettes including strawberry, mango, hazelnut paste, and mojito will be banned. However, flavours of tobacco will still be allowed. This enables smokers to keep using electronic cigarettes to stop. The manufacture of flavoured e-cigarettes and refill e-liquids will be outlawed as of July 1, 2023. Shops will have until October 1, 2023, to sell out of their current inventory.
Turkey
Although vaping is not entirely prohibited in Turkey, it is subject to stringent regulations. It is not feasible to buy vaping equipment or e-liquids in the country because they are not licenced. You can, however, use the ones you brought with you, except indoors and on public transportation. Because replacements cannot be bought until you return, you must ensure that you have enough supplies for the duration of your journey.
Croatia
E-cigarettes are subject to the same laws as tobacco products in Croatia. As a result, vaping in public areas is forbidden, and the sale of e-cigarette products to anyone under the age of 18 is prohibited.
Americas
United States
E-cigarette regulations in the United States vary from state to state. Some states have banned the use of e-cigarettes in public spaces, while others have imposed restrictions on advertising and promotion. The sale of e-cigarettes to minors is also banned in most states.
Canada
E-cigarettes with and without nicotine are both permitted legally in Canada. Adults who are 18 years of age or older are only permitted to purchase nicotine-containing vaping goods. E-cigarettes must also meet certain quality and safety requirements in order to be sold lawfully in the whole country.
Brazil
Vaping products have been banned in Brazil since 2009. The use of e-cigarettes is banned in all public spaces, and there are restrictions on advertising and promotion. The sale of e-cigarettes to minors is also banned.
Conclusion
This comprehensive guide covers the regulations and laws surrounding e-cigarettes in some of the world's most popular travel destinations. It is important to familiarise yourself with the regulations in your intended destination before you travel, as they can vary greatly from country to country. Stay safe and vape on!