Electronic cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular. Besides offering great flavours, they are also highly practical. One disposable vape can provide up to 600 or 700 puffs, replacing about three packs of traditional cigarettes. But what about the legislation on sales and usage? Find out the legal age to purchase and use electronic cigarettes.  

How Old Do You Have to Be to Vape?

The age at which you can vape depends on the country you are in, as each has different laws.  

European Countries

Most European countries have similar laws. Electronic cigarettes with nicotine are categorized like traditional ones, meaning their sale and use are prohibited for minors. Additionally, these products cannot be sold in: 

  • Stores that cater to children
  • Preschools
  • Healthcare facilities
  • Door-to-door or mail-order sales, and more

Retailers are legally permitted to refuse sales to anyone under 18.  

United States

North American states had varied regulations for years, but in 2019, the federal “Tobacco 21” law was enacted. This law allows the purchase and use of cigarettes, cigars, and electronic cigarettes only for individuals over 21. 

Interestingly, the new law penalizes merchants who sell to minors rather than the minors themselves.

Canada

In Canada, it is illegal to sell nicotine-containing electronic cigarettes to anyone under 18. Some provinces have raised this limit to 19 or even 21 years. The same law applies to using vapes.  

Asia

In many Asian countries, the legal age to purchase and use electronic cigarettes is 18, similar to the EU. However, Japan allows only those over 20 to buy vapes. Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan have even higher age limits at 21.  

Australia

In Australia, you can buy electronic cigarettes with nicotine only if you are over 18. The same age limit applies to New Zealand, Micronesia, and Papua New Guinea. Only Samoa in Oceania has stricter conditions, with a minimum age of 21.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Vape Without Nicotine?

What about the laws and regulations for non-nicotine vapes? This also varies by country.

European Countries

Non-nicotine vapes are generally available to individuals under 18 in most European countries because, according to several experts, they lack the toxicity of nicotine and often contain vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial substances.

However, you have to be careful. Governments are increasingly scrutinizing these products, and regulations may tighten. If you are going abroad, we recommend you check, if something has changed. 

United States

The United States has stricter conditions, allowing only those over 21 to buy and use non-nicotine cigarettes.   

American laws regulate not only nicotine but also components or parts of tobacco products, like atomizers or batteries, which non-nicotine vapes also contain and their sale is restricted.  

Canada

Canada has a general ban on the sale and use of vape products, including non-nicotine ones. The minimum age is aforementioned 18 years, although in some provinces it may be higher. 

Australia

Australia currently bans the sale of non-nicotine vapes to anyone under 18, applying this to both physical and online sales and usage. 

How Have Vaping Laws Changed?

Vaping laws have changed significantly in recent years. As vaping becomes more popular, states are focusing more on regulation. Initially, laws set minimum age limits, usually between 18 and 21. Later, rules on indoor vaping were introduced. 

Currently, changes also focus on non-nicotine electronic cigarettes. Countries where they are freely available to all age groups are considering how to minimize underage use. It is possible that soon, only those over 18 or 21 will be able to purchase them. 

Why Do Age Limits Exist?

Age limits for electronic cigarettes primarily exist because most products contain some amount of nicotine. It is addictive and can cause withdrawal symptoms such as headaches or irritability.  

These laws aim to ensure minors’ safety, as they are often influenced by their surroundings and may not make well-considered decisions like adults. Regulations ensure that young people can access vaping only when they are mature enough to understand its pros and cons. 

Hot to Choose the Best Vape for Beginners?

Once you know the legal age for purchasing vapes and meet the requirement, you can consider the purchase of it. If you are beginners in vaping, these tips will help you with selecting the best vape: 

Nicotine Content

Electronic cigarettes are available with and without nicotine. Beginners with no smoking experience should start with non-nicotine options. If you have experience, you can choose a vape with 10 or 20 mg/ml of nicotine.

Flavour

Vapes come in numerous flavours. You can choose from mango, banana, blueberry, grape, or melon flavours. There are even icy versions that can invigorate and restore lost energy. Popular options include cool mango, grape ice, and strawberry ice.  

Not a fan of sweet fruity flavours? In that case, the best choice for you is the classic refreshing menthol. 

Number of Puffs

Disposable electronic cigarettes typically provide between 500 and 700 puffs, which can replace about three packs of traditional cigarettes. Of course, there are also products on the market with over 1,000 puffs. Although their price is higher, they allow for longer usage. 

Battery Capacity

Battery capacity significantly affects how long the cigarette lasts and how many puffs it provides. For better understanding, a regular disposable cigarette that offers around 700 puffs usually has a 500 mAh battery.  

Brand

There are many brands selling electronic cigarettes, some of higher quality than others. If you are new to this area, a good choice is the Aroma King brand. Their portfolio is extensive, offering both nicotine and non-nicotine vapes. They also have a wide range of flavours and a compact design, making it easy to carry your vape wherever you go.