You’ve chosen your vape kit, you’ve decided on an e-liquid flavour and now you’re ready to start your vaping journey. The next question most new vapers have is “where can I actually vape?”.
It isn’t against the law to use e-cigarettes anywhere in the UK. However, it is becoming more common for various places and businesses to ban the act of vaping in and around their premises.
One of the most important things to remember is common sense and courtesy, especially to children and other people who might be around you who don’t vape. You wouldn’t see anyone smoking a cigarette in the office or the cinema so it’s safe to assume that people won’t want a huge plume of fruity vapour in these places either.
Vaping is usually accepted in open spaces, outside or in the comfort of your own home. Unless you ask, it is reasonable to assume that no one wants a bubble-gum cloud hitting them in the face when sitting in a restaurant.
We’ve created a list of the most common places in the UK that you might travel or go to regularly so you know where you can or can’t take your vape.
Where Can I Vape?
Airports & Planes: Vaping on planes and airports is banned across the UK. Vaping in airport toilets will also set off alarms.
Busses and Coaches: Vaping rules vary depending on the company. London buses have a blanket ban on vaping on board as do National Express. It’s always a good idea to drop your travel company an email before you set off just to make sure or check with the driver as you board. If you do get caught vaping on board despite there being a ban, you will be removed without a refund.
Hospitals: The rules of vaping on hospital grounds varies across the UK. Hospitals in Scotland have banned vaping completely. However, some hospitals across England have designated vaping areas. It is common courtesy to not smoke in a hospital to keep vulnerable people safe.
Music Venues: Many large music venues have banned vaping. The NEC in Birmingham, for example, has banned vaping. They do allow vaping twice a year for the Vaper Expo UK. Smaller venues might have a more relaxed approach to vaping and it’s always worth asking a staff member if you can use your device inside.
Restaurants & Cafes: There is no blanket law that bans vaping in restaurants or pubs. Some pubs will let you vape, but it is always a good idea to ask a staff member first. A lot of chain restaurants and fast-food places have banned vaping on the premises.
Stadiums: Each stadium is different. A lot of the larger stadiums such as Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge have enforced vaping bans. You might find that smaller, local clubs will allow vaping so it’s worth asking before you attend.
Trains: Vaping on trains is banned across the UK.
Generally, it’s always a good idea to give the venue a ring before you go just to double-check. Or ask when you are there, there’s no harm in taking your device and keeping it in your bag. Always be courteous of people around you and ask if you are unsure. Disobeying rules could get you into trouble so leave it at home or in your bag if you know there are restrictions in place.
