Want to see the world? Going smoke-free will make for better travel experiences. Here is why you might want to stop smoking while traveling.

Nearly one-in-four or 23% of adults in the world smoke tobacco. At least 40% of the population smoke in regions such as South-East Asia, the Pacific islands, and Europe. This shows us that smoking is a global activity shared by many cultures worldwide.

Yet, there are also many countries where smoking is heavily discouraged —- or even illegal. In Australia or Japan, the sale or importation of nicotine-containing e-liquid is banned. In Singapore, simply possessing an e-cigarette is a crime and can carry a fine of up to $1500, which can be an unpleasant surprise for tourists.

Going smoke-free for a while may be a good idea if you hope to become a world traveler. Still not convinced? Here are more reasons why traveling without your vape or cigarette is a good idea.

Smoke-free travel lets you relax and enjoy the world. Photo by Felix Rostig on Unsplash

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Adherence to Local Smoking Laws

Smoke-free zones have increased worldwide after evidence showed that the general population’s health improved following smoke-free laws. This is a universal occurrence even in countries where smoking itself is legal.

Many public spaces like parks or restaurants have a designated smoking ban. Beaches like the ones in sunny Barcelona will be inaccessible to smokers too, soon to be followed by beaches all around Spain. Some dining areas allow smoking, like the Balkans, where smoking is deeply rooted in the culture. However, this is the minority and requires heavy research beforehand.

If you’re not worried about smoking, you can enjoy any dining location that looks intriguing. Photo by Brendan Allis via iStock by Getty Images

Variety in Smokeless Nicotine Products

Shifting to smokeless nicotine products is easier than you think! There’s a whole range of options for you, too, depending on your personal preference.

Some popular options are the staple nicotine gum and trendy nicotine pouches. Many travelers buy nicotine pouches on Prilla or purchase the gum over the counter in convenience stores. The two differ in terms of disposal, duration, and discreteness. The former tends to be less obvious while in use, and the term of actual usage also usually lasts longer, whereas nicotine gum flavors and dosages tend to fade quickly. Gum may also be trickier to dispose of after use.

However, gum may be more appealing to cigarette users who have a proclivity towards chewing. The candy-like profile, otherwise present in nicotine lozenges, may also make the shift from cigarettes easier. Of course, for those hoping to veer away from oral solutions, the topical water-resistant nicotine patch is also widely accessible. It can be a great option when planning to engage in beach activities.

Reduction of Transportation Hazards

Having a smokeless alternative will also make getting around a lot easier. Many modes of public transportation ban smoking in consideration of other passengers.

Packing e-cigarettes is tricky, too, because of the potential fire hazard they pose. The FAA recounts several fire incidents in aircraft that stemmed from smoking tobacco products. This includes a recent Southwest Airlines flight to San Diego when employees had to pull a smoking suitcase containing e-cigarette batteries from a plane’s cargo hold. Many adjacent bags were damaged, and the plane had to be temporarily taken out of service.

Going smoke-free increases your safety, as well as the safety of your fellow travelers. This also makes packing a lot more convenient and stress-free.

You cannot pack ecigarettes in your checked luggage.

Cutting Down Extra Travel Costs

Travelers tend to pack light and buy other essentials at the place of travel. However, the price of cigarettes tends to vary worldwide and may even be more expensive in locations like Sri Lanka, where local cigarettes cost around $6 and imported brands can cost up to $9. This can make a huge dent in your budget, whereas going smoke-free reduces your overall expenses.

When opting to go smoke-free, travelers can ensure that their nicotine needs are fulfilled anywhere across the world. Upon safely returning home, you’ll be left with many new memories from your smoke-free travels. Check out some of our favorite destinations on Wander With Wonder, where you can travel without worrying about the logistics of smoking.

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Why You May Want to Pause Smoking or Vaping While Traveling