There are many reasons that you might want to avoid cigarettes while traveling. You might be attempting to quit permanently, or as we discussed previously on taking Family Road Trips, you might want a relaxing and healthier day off with your family for some wholesome bonding time. Regardless of your reason, you’re in luck!
There’s actually been an additional increase in duties and taxes on smoking, and even smoke-free zones across the world. This means that while avoiding smoke completely won’t exactly be easy, considering its status as a global epidemic, it’s still much more doable than it used to be.
Opt for smoke-free holiday destinations
If you’re looking to avoid smoke and smokers in general, why not head off to destinations with policies in place to manage the habit? CDC data shows smoke-free zones have increased around the world, more so after evidence revealed how the health of the general population, from acute coronary events to especially asthma, has improved following smoke-free laws.
Many public spaces like parks or beaches, currently have a designated smoking ban — 29 states in the U.S. alone have imposed a smoking ban on enclosed workplaces. Otherwise, Singapore is one of the more recent locations that have extended their smoke-free policies, along with Costa Rica’s Jacó Beach last June 2022.
Pay attention to smoking and tobacco import laws
With that said, it’s important to stay alert and review the smoking laws in specific destinations before arrival. For one, the CBP has strengthened restrictions on the import of tobacco products from outside travelers to no more than 200 cigarettes or 100 cigars in the U.S. This is a helpful deterrent to smokers looking for external reinforcements, and there are similar regulations for destinations around the world.
Find smoke-free alternatives
If you’re on your way to quitting but still want to avoid the temptation, why not consider using alternatives? This is a great way for previously frequent users to avoid withdrawal symptoms while in the middle of their vacations.
However, it is also important to note laws that may uniquely extend to alternatives. For example, nicotine gums are some of the most popular FDA-approved alternatives on the market. However, while they’re smoke-free they’re prohibited in Singapore all the same due to the country’s nationwide ban on gum.
Not to worry! Besides gum, there are other discreet alternatives such as lozenges and nicotine pouches. The nicotine pouches from On! are particularly helpful due to their unflavored options, which are convenient when traveling to countries that ban flavored tobacco and nicotine products. Otherwise, brands like VELO can be considered for their wide range of flavors including classic mint and the rather unique dragon fruit.
These options allow tourists to get their nicotine fix and avoid uncomfortable cravings, while remaining smoke-free and adhering to local laws.
Avoid locations where smoking is common
While opting for smoke-free destinations is good practice, it’s equally important to avoid locations in your holiday where smoking could be a normal practice. This includes bars and clubs that, while mostly considered public spaces, only have limited protocols due to the acknowledgement that smoking is a social activity.
This is where legalized smoking zones that were partially created to keep smoking regulated come in. This includes smoking zones that help adolescents in Europe smoke in designated areas, rather than having them displaced to smoke in possibly more dangerous locations. Regardless, for the smoke-free traveler, it is best to once again review the policies of your destination before arrival, and avoid these zones accordingly.
It’s always good for travelers to prepare themselves responsibly before crossing over to any foreign land. With the right effort, a smoke-free and definitely stress-free travel with your family is just around the corner!
