Can You Vape in Hotel Rooms?

Going on holiday soon? If you’re a vaper, and you’ve got a vacation or business trip on the horizon, you may be wondering if vaping is allowed in a hotel room. Let’s explore what you need to know about vaping in hotel rooms, how smoke alarms factor in, and tips to enjoy your stay without setting off any alarms — or breaking any rules!

Things to Know Before Vaping in Hotel Rooms

Most hotels have firm no-smoking rules, and that often includes vaping. While vaping isn’t the same as smoking, many hotels treat it similarly due to concerns around air quality, lingering scents, and potential fire hazards. In some hotels, you may find that vaping is allowed in designated smoking areas, but it’s essential to check your hotel’s policy before you unpack your vape.

Consequences of Vaping in Non-Smoking Rooms

Vaping in a non-smoking room could result in additional cleaning fees that impact your wallet. Detection of vapour — whether by scent or residue — can result in charges that range from a small fee to several hundred pounds. If you’re unsure, stick to a designated smoking room or ask at reception when you check in.

Common Concerns About Vaping in Hotel Rooms

Vaping might seem harmless, but there are a couple of key concerns to keep in mind:

• Odour and residue:* While vaping usually doesn’t have the same lingering odour as cigarettes, some flavours — especially sweet or fruity ones — can still hang around. In smaller, poorly ventilated rooms, the scent might linger longer.
• Fire alarms and smoke detection: Vaping can set off hotel smoke alarms, particularly if they’re photoelectric detectors designed to pick up particles in the air. While it’s less likely with heat-based alarms, dense clouds of vapour can still be an issue in hotels with advanced systems, potentially setting off the smoke alarm

Do Vapes Set Off Hotel Smoke Alarms?

Most hotels use a mix of heat-based and photoelectric smoke alarms. Photoelectric alarms are more sensitive to airborne particles, making them more likely to detect vapour. Some hotels even have advanced systems fine-tuned to pick up substances similar to cigarette smoke.

If vaping is allowed, be cautious. Avoid exhaling vapour near smoke detectors, and consider using low-power devices that produce smaller clouds. Opting for e-liquids with a lower VG (vegetable glycerin) content can also help, as they produce less dense vapour.

Smoke Detector Technology: How Smoke Detectors Work

There are two main types of smoke detectors: ionisation and photoelectric detectors.

Ionisation smoke detectors use a small amount of radioactive material to ionise the air inside the detector. When smoke particles enter, they disrupt the ionisation process, triggering the alarm. Photoelectric smoke detectors use a light source and a sensor. When smoke particles scatter across the light beam, the sensor picks it up, and the alarm goes off.

When these detectors sense particles, they send a signal to the hotel’s fire alarm system, prompting a response from hotel staff, or even the fire department.

Popular Hotel Chain Vaping Policies

Different hotel chains have different rules, and knowing them before you book can save you a lot of trouble.

• Travelodge: Travelodge hotels enforce a strict no-vaping policy in their rooms.
• Premier Inn: Similar to Travelodge, Premier Inn also has a blanket no-vaping rule for its rooms. Outdoor smoking areas are the only approved spots for vaping.
• Hilton Hotels: While Hilton generally has a no-vaping policy for their rooms, some locations do offer designated smoking rooms or specific outdoor areas.

Want to try some non-vape options while you’re on the road?

Vaping in Hotels Abroad: Key Facts About Spanish Hotels

Spain’s strict anti-smoking laws extend to vaping in many public spaces, including hotels, and most Spanish hotels don’t permit vaping in rooms. Fines for ignoring no-vaping policies can be steep, so it’s best to vape outside only.

Cleaning Fees and Damages

If you’re caught vaping in a non-smoking room, you could face cleaning fees after your stay. These fees cover the cost of removing any lingering scents and residues left by vape smoke. Additionally, if vaping causes stains on carpets, curtains, or furniture, you might be liable for the cost of cleaning or replacing these items.

Triggering the fire alarm can result in even steeper charges, as some hotels may bill you for the fire department’s response.

Respecting Hotel Rules and Guests

When it comes to vaping in hotels, being considerate of other guests is paramount. Vaping can be bothersome to others, especially those with respiratory issues or sensitivities to smoke.

Ultimately, it’s best to use designated smoking areas whenever possible. By respecting hotel rules and being considerate of other guests, you contribute to a more pleasant and comfortable environment for everyone.

Vaping Responsibly While Travelling

Vaping in hotels doesn’t have to be complicated. By checking the hotel’s policy and being considerate of the rules, you can enjoy your stay without any hassle.

Once you’re clear on your hotel’s policies, you're ready to see the world!

For more info on all things vaping, sign up to FREESMO today.