With the laid-back way of life in Thailand and the pervading mai pen rai attitude, it’s easy to see why the country is known as the Land of Smiles. And when people are in holiday mode in Thailand, they might not realise that there are different rules in place here. Some of those rules apply to smoking and vaping.
Leave the vapes at home
In 2014, Thailand introduced a ban on vapes and electronic cigarettes. The Thai government cited concerns about the health impacts of younger people being introduced to smoking.
It is illegal to bring vapes, vaping equipment, and electronic cigarettes into Thailand. Anybody that is caught doing so risks a large fine (or even arrest).
There is, though, some ambiguity about vaping itself. Soon after the 2014 ban, there was a crackdown on vaping. It now remains something of a grey area with some claiming it is not illegal to vape since changes were introduced to the Consumer Protection Act in 2019. During your travels in Thailand, you may notice electronic cigarettes for sale and people (Thai and foreigners) vaping in public. However, the official line from Thai embassies and the Tourism Authority of Thailand newsroom, is that vaping is illegal.
Smoking in public places
Smoking is banned in many public places in Thailand, including government buildings, hospitals, and on public transport. Smoking is also prohibited within five metres of public entrances.
Take note of any no-smoking signs on public beaches. Where there is a smoking ban in place on the beach there is usually a small designated area for smokers. Market areas like the famous Chiang Mai Walking Street Market also have a smoking ban. Even when there aren’t no-smoking signs in place, smokers should use their common sense in crowded areas and markets.
Most indoor venues and those with air-conditioned rooms are smoke-free zones. Where restaurants or bars are open-sided, smoking is usually allowed but it’s still best to ask before lighting up. When booking hotel rooms check if smoking is permitted or not. It will usually be allowed on the balcony, but not inside the room.
Cannabis and hemp
Thailand decriminalised cannabis in 2022. It was a controversial move and the cannabis laws were amended again in June 2025. It is illegal to smoke cannabis or hemp in public in Thailand. It is also illegal to carry cannabis or hemp in or out of Thailand.
Read more here: https://fanclubthailand.co.za/cannabis-laws-in-thailand-what-visitors-need-to-know/
Thailand do’s and don’ts
Thailand is an easy-going country and although there are specific do’s and don’ts, in most cases it’s just a case of using discretion and common sense. Visitors who respect local regulations will have no problems.
Thailand alcohol and licensing laws
