Vape rules in Spain, Portugal, Greece and other popular holiday destinations

The UK government has rolled out new restrictions on the sale and purchase of vapes in the UK, but Brits jetting off abroad should be aware that other countries are also tightening their laws.

With some nations dishing out hefty financial penalties, and others even threatening jail time, being clued up on the laws could make a world of difference to your summer getaway this year.

Vape expert Markus Lindblad from retailer Haypp, has spilled the beans on what you need to know about vaping in some of the UK's top holiday spots, reports Wales Online.

Turkey

While not completely banned, you won't find any vape kits or e-liquids for sale in Turkey as none have been successfully licensed, making the sale of vapes illegal. However, you're free to use any vapes you've brought with you.

Just remember, indoor vaping is a no-go in Turkey.

Spain

In Spain, several areas have already put a stop to smoking on beaches. The Balearic Islands declared 28 of their beaches smoke-free zones in 2023 and all 10 Barcelona beaches also enforce a no-smoking and no-vaping policy.

Any rule-breakers, including British tourists, could be hit with fines of up to 2,000 euros. Spain has given the green light to a new anti-smoking plan which restricts where people can light up, hikes up tobacco prices and includes a clampdown on vaping.

France

France has seen its parliament vote unanimously to ban single-use e-cigarettes. The legislation still requires the green light from the government and EU backing.

If both give their approval, the government hopes to have the ban in place by September 2024.

Portugal

In Portugal, vaping is treated on par with smoking and is regulated under the EU Tobacco Products Directive. Vaping is prohibited in all enclosed public spaces, bars, restaurants, and clubs, with fines of up to 750 euros for those who break the law.

Italy permits the purchase and use of vapes. However, they are banned in enclosed spaces and both Veneto and Sardinia are entirely smoke-free.

Those who violate these rules could face fines ranging from €27.50 to €550.

Greece

Greece continues to allow disposable vapes. They can be bought without a prescription and there are no legal restrictions on their use in public places.

However, users should be aware of certain regulations, such as the maximum nicotine content and the size of the e-liquid cartridges.

USA

In the US, vaping laws are a mixed bag. Some states ban vaping wherever smoking is prohibited, while others have no specific regulations.

For instance, in Florida, you can't vape in restaurants, but in some areas like Miami, bars are fair game. Over in California, e-cigarette use is off-limits in workplaces and many public spaces, including restaurants and bars.

If you're caught breaking these rules, fines range from $50 to $500, depending on the state.

Australia

Australia takes the cake for the strictest vaping laws. All vapes are outlawed, and using one could land you in prison for up to two years or hit you with fines of around £24,000.

So if you're planning a trip Down Under this summer, best leave your vape at home!

The full list of countries that have banned disposable vapes includes Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Brunei Darussalam, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, North Korea, Ethiopia, Gambia, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Laos, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mexico, Nicaragua, Norway, Oman, Panama, Qatar, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Syria, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uruguay, Vanuatu and Venezuela.