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Vaping in Public: What’s the Proper Etiquette?
Vaping is becoming increasingly common in certain cities worldwide. Whether you are entering or leaving a big office building, or heading to a nightlife district or another type of entertainment venue, or even if it’s just passing through a transport hub—you will probably find people vaping on disposable e-cigarettes more than ever.
But just because it’s common it doesn’t mean that anything goes, and public vaping is still viewed as unacceptable (legally, socially, or culturally) in many situations and locations.
For those involved in the vaping industry, or users of disposables and other vape devices, understanding the etiquette of those areas that public vaping has begun to invade far enough to become acceptable is critical to helping the general public shape its impression of vape brands, products, and the market overall.
It Starts with Awareness of Local Rules
Before there is any talk of etiquette, there is the need for awareness—that the rules of public vaping are different everywhere, from country to country, state to state, and city to city.
In some areas, usually where they are being treated in the same manner as traditional cigarettes, there are strict regulations forbidding vaping in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and even in many outdoor areas, while other areas have laws that are enforced but not nearly as strict.
Countries like Singapore are very strict about public vaping, while countries like the UK are a little more tolerant. For the consumer just the simplest approach is to assume that if smoking is not allowed, so is vaping, unless it is otherwise stated on or nearby the premises.
If you are a brand or distributor operating in the vaping business, you need to pay even more close attention. Your consumers are more savvy, and have access to more information and are bound to level the non-hip label on vapes that are irresponsibly marketed.
Respect Personal Space
One of the most “missing thought” blind spots of public vaping courtesy is when close to another person. Many disposable vapes utilize more intelligently built systems, having a smooth as glass vapor production that is not even lingering in scent after vapor release.
This results in the impact of believing that having them consumed in nearby proximity to use is not so intrusive. But vapor still appears visible and not everyone appreciates it—especially in crowds.
A good rule of thumb:
- Don’t vape in densely-packed areas
- Step aside when families, children and older individuals approach
- Don’t blow vapor directly onto walkways or near people in queues
Users who follow these rules of thumb seldom engender complaints or undue attention.
Be Mindful Indoors—even Where It’s Allowed
Some venues, vape shops etc., may permit users to vape indoors, but even here moderation counts.
Heavy, continuous users checking their phones while inhaling might make the surrounding area uncomfortable for others; flavors like mango ice or mint might feel nice to one patron but overpowering to the next.
And here product design comes into play as well, devices with a tighter draw, smoother outflow and less vapor generated with each output are typically better suited to manage such semi-public areas.
Discretion Goes a Long Way
Not every situation warrants a puff, visible or otherwise, even if legally permitted.
Obviously the more formal the setting or occasion—business meetings, the office, other work or formal events—pulling out a massive LED emblazoned device will seem inappropriate.
Small, lightweight disposable vapes are more practical, more discreet and less distracting for the user. Many of whom are constantly on the go, and portability and discretion are almost as important to them as flavor and battery life.
Dispose of Devices Responsibly
Curb your etiquette after the last puff. Another pressing issue worldwide is that of waste from disposable vapes.
Leaving your used disposable vape lying around in public, on the street, in the garbage actually reflects on you and the industry.
Change your users’ mind by promoting good disposal habits (or better yet, offer rechargeable disposables). More consumers than ever are thinking about their environmental impact when they buy products.
Don’t “Cloud Chase” in Public
Massive vapor clouds look awesome on social media, but they don’t stand out so well in the real world, especially in crowded public venues.
Blowing huge clouds in public places can draw unwanted attention, annoying others and raising the specter of complaints and bans.
For quotidian use, most folks prefer a smoother “lighter” hit over maximum cloud density.
Social Perception Is Important
The vaping industry may be maturing, but public perception will always be a major factor in determining its success.
Bad experiences with vapers “cloud chasing” at the mall, for instance, may leave non-vapers wondering how all vape products are used in public, while more polite people wind up confirming everyone’s choice that vaping is the lesser of two evils.
For companies like Smoking Bloom and competitors targeted at the UK, Germany, UAE, Malaysia, Indonesia etc., this should be a primary concern: reputation is found in the way you perceive how they comprise use of the product, not just product quality.
Conclusion
Learning how to vape in public is big even for you. It’s not just knowledge of the law, it’s awareness.
Take care of public and others you live with (or near) for a prosperous vape market. Everything from more puffs per device to dual flavors of juice will follow.“Polite Vaping” is an opportunity for the branding geniuses, but toppled bottles aren’t the only prize. In the long haul the winner won’t just be the best device, but the company shaping public “good” habits.
For inquiries: smokingbloom.com