Can You Vape on a Train?

Whether you’re switching from cigarettes to vaping or have been vaping for a while, chances are you’ll need to travel by train at some point. And when you do, you might wonder: can you vape on a train? After all, vaping doesn’t produce second-hand smoke, which is the main reason smoking is banned in public spaces. Good question.

Vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking, but the rules aren’t that simple. Let’s discuss whether vaping is allowed on trains, the regulations at stations and platforms, and whether train smoke detectors can detect vapour. We’ll cover everything you need to know about vaping and train travel.

Vaping in Public Places – How Trains Are Different

Vaping laws in public places can be confusing. Although the UK doesn’t have a nationwide ban on vaping indoors, individual businesses and organisations set their own rules. Pubs, restaurants, and workplaces often allow vaping in designated areas, but trains take a stricter approach. Because trains are shared, enclosed spaces with many passengers, the priority is to keep the environment comfortable for everyone.

So, Can You Vape on Trains?

The short answer is no. Vaping is not allowed on trains in the UK. Just like smoking, using an e-cigarette is banned on all significant train operators, including National Rail, LNER, Avanti West Coast, and more. Some significant train operators, including Virgin Trains and Great Western Railway, enforce a ban on vaping onboard trains and at platforms.

Even though vaping doesn’t involve burning tobacco or creating harmful second-hand smoke, most transport companies treat it the same as smoking. (The details about vaping in different areas are best checked directly with the specific train operator.)

The UK Smoking & Vaping Regulations Background

The central UK smoking legislation regulating smoking in public places is The Health Act 2006, which was introduced to protect the public from the dangers of second-hand smoke. This law makes smoking illegal in all enclosed public spaces, including public transport. However, it does not explicitly cover vaping, as e-cigarettes do not produce harmful second-hand smoke, and this law was designed to prevent this.

Despite this, most individual transport providers have chosen to extend their smoking bans to include e-cigarettes. Although this means that the government does not legally ban vaping in the same way as smoking, train companies have the right to set their own rules, and breaking them could lead to fines, being asked to leave the train, or facing other penalties.

Why Is Vaping Banned on Trains Along with Smoking?

Train operators like National Rail, LNER, and Avanti West Coast have updated their policies to prohibit vaping, treating it like smoking to maintain consistency in enforcement and ensure passenger comfort. There are two main reasons why train operators enforce a vaping ban:

1. Passenger comfort – Some travellers find vapour unpleasant, even though it’s not harmful in the same way as cigarette smoke. Companies prefer a universal no-vaping rule to keep the environment neutral for all passengers.
2. Simpler enforcement – Different smoking and vaping rules could complicate enforcement. By treating them the same, training staff can easily ensure compliance without distinguishing between cigarettes and e-cigarettes.

Although the restrictions may seem unfair, we strongly recommend following them. Otherwise, you could be removed from the train for vaping, just as if you were smoking a cigarette. Even though vapour is 95% less harmless compared to tobacco smoke, other passengers might still find it disruptive, which ultimately matters.

What Are the Main Differences Between Vaping and Smoking?

While vaping is often compared to smoking cigarettes, there are significant differences between the two. Smoking cigarettes involves burning tobacco, which releases thousands of chemicals into the air, including tar, carbon monoxide, and other toxic substances.

In contrast, vaping consists of heating a liquid solution, typically containing nicotine (though, unlike cigarettes, vaping allows you to choose nicotine-free options), flavourings, and other additives to produce vapour. This vapour is generally considered much less harmful than cigarette smoke.

The Most Important Difference Between Vaping and Smoking

One key difference between smoking and vaping is the presence of combustion. When tobacco is burned, it releases a range of harmful chemicals, including carcinogens and toxins. On the other hand, vaping does not involve combustion, which reduces the risk of exposure to these dangerous chemicals. This is why it falls under the category of Reduced-Risk Products (RRP).

But, if you’re looking for a way to quit smoking, vaping is a proven method that significantly increases your chances of success. Plus, with vaping, you can gradually reduce the nicotine level in your e-liquids and ideally switch to nicotine-free vaping over time. That’s a huge difference: You can’t smoke cigarettes without nicotine.

Can You Vape on Train Platforms in the UK?

Rules on vaping at train platforms in the UK vary. While smoking bans are strict, some outdoor platforms may allow vaping. However, many operators extend their no-smoking policies to e-cigarettes, even in open-air areas. It is essential to be aware of the vaping regulations established by each transport operator.

To avoid fines or being asked to stop, check station policies or look for designated smoking areas where vaping might be accepted. Some stations have clear signage, while others leave the rules vague, so it’s best to ask staff when in doubt.

Can You Vape at a Train Station's Designated Smoking Areas?

Vaping rules at train stations depend on the station itself. Major UK train operators enforce strict bans on smoking and vaping inside larger, enclosed stations such as London Euston, Manchester Piccadilly, or Glasgow Central.

In contrast, smaller or less busy stations with open platforms might have more relaxed enforcement, especially in uncovered areas. If unsure, head outside the station before using your vape to avoid breaking any rules.

Do Train Smoke Detectors Detect Vaping?

E-cigarette vapour clouds are very different from cigarette smoke but can train smoke detectors detect vaping? The answer isn’t that simple and can vary significantly depending on the type of detector used at a particular station or on a specific train.

• Ionisation smoke detectors react to particles from burning tobacco, so vaping won’t trigger them.
• Optical (photoelectric) smoke detectors can sometimes detect thick vapour, but it’s unlikely unless you’re vaping heavily in a confined space.
• Heat detectors ignore vapour altogether, as they only respond to temperature changes.

Although it’s rare for standard train smoke detectors to go off due to vaping, it’s still not worth the risk, especially in restricted areas where alarms could cause unnecessary disruptions.

Can Train Toilets Detect Vape?

You might think that vaping in a train toilet is a discreet way to avoid the rules, but it’s still not a great idea. While train toilets don’t typically have smoke detectors, some have air quality sensors that could detect vapour build-up, including cigarette vapour.

Even if no alarm goes off, vaping in a toilet can leave visible clouds or lingering scents, which might get you reported by other passengers or staff. Because train companies can fine passengers for vaping, it’s best to wait until you reach your destination.

Is All Vaping Banned on Trains, Even Nicotine-Free?

All electronic cigarettes and vaping devices are banned on UK trains, regardless of size or nicotine content. Whether you’re using a small pod system with minimal vapour or even a zero-nicotine e-cigarette, the same restrictions apply. Train operators don’t differentiate between nicotine and nicotine-free vapes because their policies focus on visibility and passenger comfort rather than substance content.

Even though a zero-nicotine vape produces nothing harmful to those around you, train staff are unlikely to make an exception. To avoid issues, stepping outside at your next stop or waiting until you’re in a permitted area is best.

Vaping on Other Modes of Transport

The UK vaping rules on trains are clear: It’s completely banned. And, if you’re using other types of public transport, don’t expect anything different. Most transport providers treat vaping the same as smoking, especially those offering multiple forms of passenger travel.

Can You Vape on Buses?

An example of a general transport provider is Transport for London (TfL), which bans vaping across its entire network, including buses, trains, the London Underground, taxis, and private hire vehicles. Interestingly, this policy was introduced in December 2015, even before the official public smoking ban. According to TfL, the goal is to maintain a consistent and comfortable environment for all passengers. Other major UK bus operators, such as Stagecoach and Arriva, also prohibit vaping on board.

Can You Vape on Planes?

No. Vaping is also banned on planes, and most airlines have strict policies in place to prevent passengers from using e-cigarettes during flights. However, at airports, you’ll often find designated vaping areas outside the terminal buildings. Always check with your airline and the airport about their specific rules before vaping if you're flying.

PRO TIP: You can find plenty more information in other articles on our blog, including details about vaping and flying: Can You Take Vape Liquid on a Plane in the UK?

What About Vaping on Ships and Ferries?

In this case, it depends. Cruise ships and ferries often have specific policies on vaping, so it’s essential to check with the operator before you start vaping on board. Some cruise lines provide designated smoking areas where vaping is also allowed, while others ban vaping entirely. Ferries tend to have stricter rules, especially on enclosed decks, so always confirm before your journey.

Understanding Vaping Devices

Vaping devices, also known as e-cigarettes, are electronic devices that heat a liquid solution to produce a vapour. The liquid solution typically contains nicotine, flavourings, and other additives. Vaping devices come in various shapes and sizes, from small, discreet devices to larger, more complex models.

There are several types of vaping devices, including:

• Cigalikes: These devices resemble traditional cigarettes and are often used by those trying to quit smoking.
• Vape pens: These devices are more extensive than cigalikes and often have more advanced features, such as adjustable wattage and temperature control.
• Mods: These devices are highly customisable and often used by experienced vapers.
• Pod systems and kits: These devices use pre-filled pods and are often used by those new to vaping.

However, remember that no matter what type of vaping device you use, the ban on public transport applies to all of them. The only exception among smoking alternatives is products that contain nicotine but do not produce any vapour or smoke. We’ll cover those in the next section.

Nicotine Alternatives for Train Journeys

If you can’t vape on a train but still want to manage cravings, there are alternative nicotine products that don’t break the rules. Nicotine pouches, for example, are a discreet and smokeless option. These small, tobacco-free pouches sit under your lip and slowly release nicotine without producing vapour or odour.

Another option is nicotine gum or lozenges, which offer a quick nicotine fix without drawing attention. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, nicotine strips (thin, dissolvable films that quickly release nicotine when placed on the tongue) can also be an alternative. Switching to these alternatives during a train journey can make travelling easier, help you stay on track, and reduce your cigarette dependence.

Snus Is Illegal in the UK and Contains Harmful Tobacco

You might be thinking that snus could be a similarly discreet option. However, the sale of snus has been illegal in the UK and across the EU (except Sweden) since 1992 due to health concerns. That said, possession and personal use are not prohibited, so you can bring it into the country for your use, but you won’t find it for sale in UK stores. The alternatives mentioned above, however, are legal, tobacco-free, and widely available in the UK.

The Best Advice: Avoid Vaping While Travelling by Train

When travelling by train, it’s best to skip vaping altogether. And, if you’re on a journey to reduce your nicotine dependence, consider it a positive challenge. Although the restrictions may feel frustrating, they support your goal. The key is always to follow the rules, be mindful of others, and find the right places to vape without worry. If you’re travelling by train, plan to enjoy your vape without breaking the rules.

Want to learn more about vaping or other alternatives to smoking?