Is it socially acceptable to vape in public? Usually, as long as you follow the law and a few unwritten rules: ask before you vape around other people, keep your clouds small in shared spaces, and step away from crowds. Where you can vape is partly a legal question, since many US states, cities and businesses restrict vaping indoors, and partly a matter of manners.
Like everything we do in public, vaping comes with unwritten social rules. For someone new to vaping, these can be confusing and may even put them off vaping in public. Here's our quick guide to vaping etiquette so you can vape with quiet confidence. Our list of vaping do’s and don’ts covers the device-care side of the same habits.
Can You Vape Anywhere?
Not quite. Some places restrict vaping by law or by policy, and even where it's allowed, some people simply don't like vapor or its smell. Nobody wants a cloud drifting across them mid-conversation. It's about good manners.
Home Sweet Vape Home
Home is the easiest place to vape. You can vape in comfort, try different devices and flavors, and charge your device whenever you need to. If you like blowing big clouds, open a window so the room stays fresh. If you're inviting guests over, check that it's okay with them first. Some people are still unsure about vaping, and many don't know what it is or how it works. If a smell does linger, our tips on removing vape smell from your home will help.
Vaping on the Road?
Before you vape and drive, check your state and local rules, especially if children or other passengers are in the car.
Even where it's allowed, think twice. Big clouds can block your view, and vapor from e-liquid ingredients can leave a faint film on the windshield that also makes it harder to see. We'd advise against vaping while driving, but if you do, keep a window open.
Vape Mindfully Outdoors
Vaping outside may sound like a no-brainer, but you still have to be aware of the people around you. Whether you're waiting for the bus or standing outside a bar with a drink, notice who's nearby. Not everyone shares your enthusiasm for vaping. A quick courtesy check will do the trick, or you can move somewhere quieter.
The No-Vape Zones
In venues like movie theaters, live theaters and arenas, you should think twice about vaping, and the venue's own rules may ban it outright. You're nearly always in close quarters there, so vaping would be disrespectful and an invasion of other people's space, not to mention the clouds that could block their view. We'd advise against it.
What Is Stealth Vaping?
Stealth vaping means keeping your vape kit out of sight and using a low-vapor setup so you don't draw attention to yourself, for example a lower power setting and a tighter airflow.
The etiquette around stealth vaping isn't fully clear, but if you use it to dodge the rules by vaping where you shouldn't, that's wrong. It reflects badly on the whole vaping community, and you're likely to get called out by non-vapers and vapers alike. A better use of stealth vaping is when you're somewhere you're allowed to vape but simply want to keep a low profile so you don't draw attention to yourself. That's fine.
Enjoy Vaping Responsibly
Vaping comes with a responsibility to respect the people around you. Follow these simple social rules and good etiquette so everyone feels comfortable, whether at home, on the road or in public spaces, and do your part to keep the vibe positive in the vaping community.
