If you’re a regular nicotine user - whether you smoke or vape - flying can feel a bit stressful.
In fact, more than six in 10 nicotine users* say they feel anxious about not being able to smoke or vape after passing through airport security.
If you’re unsure about the rules around smoking at airports, we’ve got you covered. From UK airport policies to international guidelines, here’s everything you need to know—including how VELO nicotine alternatives can help you stay on track while travelling.
Whether you’re planning to use VELO pouches during your flight or while waiting at the airport, explore our full range of nicotine strengths, sizes and flavours - including fruit and mint.
Can you smoke cigarettes at airports?
No - smoking is not allowed inside UK airports. As with other public buildings and transport hubs, smoking is banned in enclosed spaces. Some airports may also restrict smoking in outdoor areas like drop-off zones or transport interchanges.
That said, a few terminals do offer designated outdoor smoking areas. These may be located before or after security, depending on the airport.
Can you vape at airports?
No - vaping is also prohibited inside UK airports. If the terminal has a designated smoking area, you can vape there. However, vaping may be restricted in some outdoor areas too. Important: vapes must be packed in your hand luggage, not in checked baggage. They should be charged and placed in a clear plastic bag with other liquid items for security screening.
Another thing to note is that vapes must always be brought with you in your hand luggage and never stowed in hold baggage. They must be charged to take through security and placed in a clear plastic bag alongside other products that contain liquids.
Also, be aware that some countries ban the import of vape devices. Always check local laws before travelling with a vape.
Can you use nicotine pouches at airports?
Yes - nicotine pouches can be used at UK airports. Many smokers and vapers switch to pouches while travelling. Because they’re smokeless***, you can even use them during your flight.
What are nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches are small, discreet parcels containing nicotine, flavourings, and other ingredients. You place one between your gum and lip, and it gradually releases nicotine for up to 30 minutes. VELO pouches use pharmaceutical-grade nicotine polymer and contain no tobacco. They’re made with plant-based materials and flavourings, and they don’t produce smoke or odour—making them ideal for travel.
NEW
Price:
€7.00
NEW
Price:
From €5.50
Price:
From €5.50
Price:
From €5.50
Price:
€7.00
Price:
€7.00
Price:
From €5.50
Price:
From €5.50
Price:
From €5.50
Price:
€7.00
Price:
€7.00
Price:
€7.00
UK airports with no smoking areas
Smoking and vaping are banned inside UK airports, and there’s no legal requirement for terminals to provide smoking areas. However, some do offer designated zones. Here’s a quick overview:
Can you smoke at Heathrow Airport?
No smoking areas after security. Smoking and vaping only allowed in designated outdoor zones outside each terminal.
Can you smoke at Gatwick Airport?
No, smoking areas are not available at Gatwick Airport once you’ve passed security. Smoking is only allowed only in designated zones outside the terminal.
Can you smoke at Birmingham Airport?
No, there are no smoking areas once you pass security at Birmingham Airport. The only place you can smoke at Birmingham Airport is within marked zones outside the front of the terminal.
Can you smoke at Luton Airport?
No, airside smoking areas are not provided at Luton Airport. Smoking and vaping permitted in a sheltered zone outside departures.
Can you smoke at Stanstead Airport?
No, you cannot smoke once you pass security at Stanstead Airport. Smoking and vaping allowed in designated outdoor areas near the terminal entrance.
Smoking areas at international airports
That’s the UK covered—but what about your destination? Smoking and vaping rules vary widely across countries, so it’s worth checking local laws before you travel.
To help, we’ve created an interactive map showing smoking and vaping policies at major international airports. It’s a useful tool for checking whether smoking rooms are available and whether vaping rules differ from smoking regulations.
Why nicotine pouches are the best smoking alternative
Nicotine pouches are a great alternative to smoking, and not just because you can use them in airport terminals and on flights. You can use them in terminals and on flights, and they don’t produce smoke, ash or odour***. That makes them one of the most discreet ways to consume nicotine. Just place a pouch between your gum and lip, go about your day, and dispose of it after 30 minutes.
Want more tips for flying with nicotine pouches? Read our dedicated guide, or browse our VELO product range to find your ideal flavour and strength.
*Research of 1,000 nicotine users aged 20 plus who've been using nicotine for six months or more carried out from 14 to 19 October 2022 through OnePoll.
**18+ only. This product contains nicotine and is addictive. For adult nicotine or tobacco consumers only.
***This product is not risk-free and contains nicotine, an addictive substance.
