As holiday season approaches, many UK vapers will be packing their bags — and their devices. But taking a vape abroad isn’t always straightforward. Laws vary widely around the world, and in some destinations, possession alone can lead to fines or confiscation.
This guide provides a clear, up‑to‑date overview of where vaping is banned outright, where it’s heavily regulated, and where it’s generally allowed. Updated for 2026, including recent changes in Australia, South Korea, Indonesia, and the UK.
Countries Where Vaping Is Completely Banned
These destinations prohibit the import, sale, possession, or use of e‑cigarettes. Even carrying a vape in your luggage can result in penalties.
- Thailand – Full ban. Severe fines and possible imprisonment.
- Singapore – Full ban. Possession alone can lead to fines.
- India – Nationwide ban on e‑cigarettes.
- Hong Kong – Full ban on sale, import, and possession.
- Brazil – Sale and import banned; customs routinely confiscate devices.
- Argentina – Same as Brazil; full prohibition.
- Cambodia – Total ban; devices are seized at entry.
- Brunei – Full ban with strict enforcement.
- Qatar – Complete ban on vaping products.
- Oman – Full prohibition.
If you’re travelling to any of these countries, leave your vape at home.
Countries With Strict or Unusual Restrictions
These destinations allow vaping under specific conditions, or restrict nicotine liquids while permitting other devices. Enforcement can vary widely.
- Australia – Since 1 October 2024, adults 18+ can buy therapeutic vapes with ≤20mg/mL nicotine from pharmacies without a prescription, but must consult the pharmacist. A prescription is still required for higher strengths or for under‑18s.
- Japan – Nicotine e‑liquid is banned; non‑nicotine vapes and heated tobacco products are allowed.
- UAE – Legal but tightly regulated; public vaping can lead to fines.
- Turkey – Sale of e‑cigarettes is banned, but possession and personal use are not explicitly illegal. Enforcement varies.
- Mexico – Sale banned; possession often tolerated but enforcement differs by region.
- Vietnam – Sale banned; possession not clearly regulated. Rules are inconsistent across provinces.
- Egypt – Legal status unclear; airport confiscations are common and enforcement varies.
- Saudi Arabia – Legal but strict rules on public use and advertising.
Additional Countries With Notable 2026 Restrictions
These destinations are not “banned” countries, but their 2026 regulatory changes are significant enough for travellers to be aware of.
- South Korea – As of April 2026, synthetic nicotine is tightly regulated. Strong enforcement on youth access and product compliance.
- Indonesia – New restrictions introduced in July 2026, including higher taxes, advertising limits, and tighter import controls.
Countries Where Vaping Is Legal and Regulated
These destinations follow structured rules similar to the UK.
- United Kingdom – Legal; 20mg/ml nicotine limit and 2ml tank capacity under TPD rules. Single‑use disposable vapes were banned in June 2025, and the Vaping Products Duty begins 1 October 2026, increasing the price of all e‑liquids. Travellers should expect higher costs and reduced availability of disposables.
- European Union – Legal under TPD regulations.
- United States – Legal; age 21+; rules vary by state.
- Canada – Legal with provincial restrictions.
- New Zealand – Legal; strong harm‑reduction approach.
Travel Tips for Vapers
To avoid issues while travelling:
- Carry your vape in hand luggage (battery safety rules).
- Don’t vape in airports unless clearly designated.
- Check hotel and resort policies — many have strict rules.
- Avoid buying liquids abroad — quality and legality vary.
- If unsure, leave it at home — penalties in some countries can be severe.
Final Note
This guide is for general information only. Laws can change quickly, and enforcement varies by region. Always check the latest rules for your destination before travelling.