Vaping might be a far cry from smoking in terms of health impact, but when it comes to etiquette, the rules aren’t always so clear. Whether you're at the pub, on a park bench, or at your mate’s house, knowing how to vape respectfully can make all the difference between a smooth experience and a social faux pas.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about vaping with respect in shared spaces — including:
- Unspoken vape etiquette
- Where you can and shouldn’t vape
- How to handle non-vapers
- Tips to avoid being “that person”
Let’s get into it — respectfully, of course.
🚫 1. Know Where Vaping is Actually Allowed
It might be legal, but that doesn’t mean it’s always allowed.
Many public places now treat vaping just like smoking — even if it’s not spelled out. Always check the rules in:
- Restaurants and cafés – Even outdoor areas can be vape-free
- Pubs and bars – Some allow vaping, others don’t — ask first
- Workplaces and offices – Usually banned indoors
- Public transport – Banned across the board in the UK
- Shops, cinemas, venues – Considered indoors = no-go
- Parks and public benches – Technically allowed, but still use judgement
When in doubt: ask. Staff will appreciate the courtesy, and it saves you awkward stares or being asked to leave.
💨 2. Don’t Blow Clouds in People’s Faces
We get it — cloud chasing is fun. But there’s a time and a place.
In shared spaces, always aim vapour away from people, especially indoors or in close quarters. And if you’re using a powerful sub-ohm device, consider switching to a lower-powered pod kit when you’re out and about.
Even flavoured vapour can be intrusive to non-vapers — just because it smells like strawberries doesn’t mean everyone wants to inhale it.
🤝 3. Be Mindful of Non-Vapers (and Ex-Smokers)
Not everyone shares your enthusiasm for vape tech and bubblegum ice flavour.
Be especially considerate around:
- Children and families – Never vape around kids, even in outdoor settings
- Ex-smokers – Your cloud could be a trigger for someone else’s struggle
- People with asthma or health conditions – Vapour may be irritating, even if harmless
- Non-vapers in social settings – Just because they don’t say anything doesn’t mean they love it
Pro tip: if someone gives you the look, that’s your cue to take a step back.
🙋 4. Ask Before Vaping Indoors (Even in Someone’s Home)
You wouldn’t light a cigarette in someone’s living room without asking — and the same should apply to your vape.
Always ask the host before vaping indoors. Even if they vape themselves, they may not want their place to smell like cola ice or vanilla custard for hours after.
If you get the green light, great — just be mindful of where and how you vape (small clouds, away from vents, no chain-puffing in the kitchen).
🎉 5. Consider Your Device and Flavour Choice
When vaping around others, especially indoors or in public, think about your setup and flavour:
- Big mod kits = big clouds – not ideal for tight spaces
- Discreet pod kits = better for shared areas
- Sweet or dessert flavours = polarising
- Tobacco or menthol = safer neutral options
Save the bold banana bubblegum for solo sessions and opt for something lighter if you’re not alone.
♻️ 6. Don’t Litter Disposables or Pods
This one’s simple: don’t chuck used vapes, pods, or packaging into public bins or the ground. It’s not just bad manners — it’s bad for the planet, and it gives the vape community a bad name.
Many vape stores offer drop-off recycling points for disposables and used pods. If you can’t find one, take it home until you can dispose of it properly.
Let’s not be the reason vaping gets banned in more public spaces.
🤫 7. Go Stealth When Needed
Sometimes the best move is to vape discreetly or not at all.
Examples:
- Train station platform? Step away from the crowd.
- Outdoor café? Take a quick puff and lower the device.
- Park bench with families nearby? Wait until you’ve moved on.
You don’t need to make a statement — you just need to vape smart.
✅ Final Tips for Respectful Vaping
- Always ask first
- Mind your clouds
- Be aware of who’s around you
- Use appropriate devices for shared spaces
- Never litter
- Don’t assume your vape is welcome — earn that welcome
Being considerate keeps the vaping community viewed positively — and helps avoid more bans or negative headlines.
Final Thoughts
Vaping is your choice — and you should enjoy it. But just like with any public behaviour, it pays to be aware of your surroundings. A little courtesy goes a long way, whether you’re at the pub, the park, or your mate’s front room.
Vape proudly — but respectfully.