Six Holiday Spots With Strict Vaping Bans And Heavy Fines

Travelers face severe penalties including hefty fines and jail time for carrying or using vapes in several popular international holiday destinations.

NationPulse Desk

Oct 29, 2026 · 8:15 PM 2 min read

Key takeaways

Thailand has fully banned vapes since 2014, with fines up to 40,000 Thai Baht (£890) or up to 10 years in prison.

Singapore banned vapes in 2018, where simply carrying one can cost up to S$2,000 (£1,171) and six months in jail.

Mexico introduced strict rules in January 2026, fining people up to $500 (£375) for bringing in a vape.

Maldives enforces fines up to $320 (£240) for anyone caught carrying or using an e-cigarette.

Vietnam banned vaping across the country, with penalties up to $190 (£142) and potential hotel eviction.

While new regulations arrive in the United Kingdom, holidaymakers might assume packing an e-cigarette for a trip remains safe. However, multiple nations completely outlaw vapes, encompassing both operation and simple possession. Certain nations like Spain restrict vaping in specific zones like outdoor patios or beaches. Yet several destinations enforce total bans carrying heavy fines or imprisonment.

Thailand

As a favored destination for British travelers, Thailand maintains strict prohibitions regarding vapes. Total bans began in 2014, applying equally to residents and visitors. Rule breakers risk penalties reaching 40,000 Thai Baht (£890) or imprisonment lasting up to 10 years. Earlier this year, two English tourists received the full £890 penalty after authorities caught them vaping on a beach, alongside warnings of potential prison time for repeat offenses. The Thai embassy states: "While electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes are used around the world as a way of helping people quit smoking, travelers coming to Thailand should be aware that these devices are, in fact, illegal in the kingdom."

Singapore

Singapore matches Thailand in strictness, enforcing a total vape ban since 2018. Simply possessing a device without using it violates the law, carrying penalties up to S$2,000 (£1,171) alongside a maximum six-month jail term. Visitors caught repeatedly violating regulations face permanent entry bans.

Mexico

Mexico tightened restrictions on vaping through regulations introduced in January 2026. Individuals caught importing a vape face immediate penalties up to $500 (£375), while public consumption carries a $150 (£112) penalty.

Maldives

Visitors traveling to the Maldives must leave e-cigarettes behind because they are prohibited, with penalties reaching up to $320 (£240) for possession or use.

Vietnam

Nationwide bans on vaping took effect across Vietnam, prohibiting both possession and usage. Penalties can reach up to $190 (£142), and hotels may evict guests caught violating the rule.

Other countries where vaping is banned: