More than five million people from the UK are expected to travel overseas during the Christmas and New Year period, according to the latest estimates from travel association ABTA. The final quarter of 2025 is also set to see a staggering 23 million trips made by British holidaymakers.
Expert Warns of Costly Vaping Mistakes
With this massive festive exodus underway, a leading expert is cautioning travellers against a common and potentially expensive error involving e-cigarettes. Dan Merchant, director of Vape Club, has issued a stark reminder for vapers to thoroughly research the regulations of their destination country before they depart.
Some popular destinations, including Singapore and Thailand, have implemented complete bans on vaping. Dan Merchant states, 'As vaping's popularity increases worldwide, the legislation governing it is in a constant state of flux. For vapers, it is absolutely vital to check the local laws of their holiday destination before booking to avoid potential fines or even more serious penalties in nations where vaping is prohibited.'
Hefty Fines and Airline Bans Await Rule-Breakers
Holidaymakers who ignore local rules could face significant financial penalties. For instance, in Cyprus, it is illegal to vape in public areas or inside a private vehicle if a child is present. Travellers caught breaking this rule could be hit with a fine reaching €850 (approximately £744).
Meanwhile, vaping in public spaces in Hungary might result in a charge as high as $980 (around £732). The consequences extend beyond land, as vaping on an aircraft in UK airspace is strictly prohibited and could lead to a fine of up to £5,000 and a ban from the airline.
Dan Merchant adds a further warning about product safety: 'The illegal vape trade has expanded in countries with strict regulations, mirroring past issues with the cigarette black market. This includes youth usage, potentially dangerous products, and unregulated sales.' He advises travellers to bring their own permitted devices and supplies to countries that allow limited personal use, to avoid unsafe illegal products.
Essential Packing Advice for Vapers
For those flying to destinations where vaping is permitted, correct packing is crucial. All vaping devices and batteries must be placed in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage. This rule ensures they remain in a pressure-controlled cabin environment.
'Remember to pack your batteries and vaping devices in your carry-on luggage,' Dan Merchant emphasises. This safety measure aligns with strict rules recently implemented by numerous airlines, which prohibit power banks in checked hold luggage due to the risk of lithium batteries overheating and causing aggressive, toxic fires—a dangerous process known as thermal runaway.
