Let’s be real—vaping in public used to be a free-for-all: Blow clouds wherever, ignore the side-eye, and call it a day. But now? It’s like showing up to a party in sweatpants—rude if you don’t read the room. After scrolling through UK vape blogs (shoutout to Vapeology’s very relatable “don’t be that person” guide 
) and surviving a few awkward “can you not?” moments myself, I’m breaking down the 2025 rules of public vaping. Spoiler: It’s less about “following laws” and more about “not ruining someone’s coffee run.”
First: The Non-Negotiable Do’s—Be the Vaper Everyone Likes 
1. Do Ask “Is This Cool?” Before Puffing
Remember when your mom said “ask before you take a cookie”? Same energy. Whether you’re at a friend’s flat, a pub garden, or even a park bench, a quick “Mind if I vape?” goes a long way. I once skipped this at a café and got a glare from a barista who looked like she’d seen worse (spoiler: she probably had—thanks, cloud-chasers 
). Now I ask, and 9/10 times people say “sure!”—the other 10%? I just step outside. Easy.
2. Do Ditch the Clouds in Crowds
Yes, your sub-ohm tank makes impressive smoke rings. No, the guy next to you on the bus wants to inhale them. In shared spaces (think: busy sidewalks, outdoor dining), swap for a pod kit (my VAPORESSO XROS 5 NANO is perfect—tiny clouds, big flavor 
). Even IQOS NZ says it: “Respect non-vapers by keeping clouds low.” I tested this at a festival—switched to my mini device, and no one even noticed I was vaping. Win-win.
3. Do Dispose of Trash Like a Human
Used pods? Empty juice bottles? Don’t toss ’em on the ground like a rogue candy wrapper. I once saw a guy drop a pod in a playground (yuck 
)—a mom gave him a lecture so scathing, I still remember it. Keep a small bag for waste, or use bins. Puffin Vape Shop says this is “vaping 101”—and honestly? It’s just common sense. Your local park doesn’t need to look like a vape graveyard.
The “Never Do This” Don’ts—Avoid Being “That Vaper” 
1. Don’t Vape Indoors (Unless Explicitly Allowed)
This one’s not just etiquette—it’s law in most places. Hong Kong banned public possession of vapes in 2026 (hello, $3,000 fines!), and the UK treats vaping like smoking in cafes, cinemas, and trains. I once saw someone vape in a library (who does that?!)—security escorted them out, and the whole room stared. Save yourself the embarrassment: If it’s indoors and not a vape shop, put it away.
2. Don’t Blow Vapor in People’s Faces
Imagine someone blowing cigarette smoke at you—annoying, right? Vapor’s no different, even if it smells like mango. The Vapory Team calls this “the biggest faux pas”—and I agree. Last week, a guy blew a cloud at my friend (who has asthma)—she had to step away to catch her breath. Just turn your head, or step to the side. It takes 2 seconds, and you won’t be the reason someone leaves a party early.
3. Don’t Vape Around Kids (Ever)
This is non-negotiable. Whether it’s a playground, a family restaurant, or a park, kids don’t need to inhale your mint vapor or ask “what’s that?” SMOKO’s guide says it best: “Avoid family spaces like the plague.” I once stepped away from a playground to vape, and a dad gave me a thumbs-up—small win, but it matters. Vaping’s for adults, so keep it adult-only.
Bonus: Pro Tips for Travel & Work 
- Travel: Airlines ban vaping on flights (duh), but airports often have designated areas. Hong Kong’s airport lets you vape in transit only if you skip customs—check first, or risk a fine.
- Work: Most offices ban vaping indoors. My coworker once vaped in the break room—HR sent a company-wide email, and now no one lets him forget it. Stick to designated spots (if they exist!).
At the end of the day, modern vaping etiquette is simple: Be considerate. It’s not about giving up your vape—it’s about making sure no one else has to give up their comfort. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, these rules keep the vaping community looking good (and avoid awkward confrontations).
Have you had a “vaping etiquette fail”? Or do you have a go-to tip I missed? Drop a comment below—I need to add more hacks to my “not being that vaper” playbook. Happy (respectful) puffing! 