Brits 'caught off guard' in major European hotspot as little-known rule exposed
With a staggering 4.8 million Brits slated to visit Turkey this year, experts have issued a warning over the country's strict rules when it comes to buying or distributing e-cigarettes
Droves of Brits are being warned over one country's unexpectedly strict rules. This year, a staggering five million UK tourists are slated to visit Turkey, as it prepares for a record-breaking boom in international visitors.
Lured in by endless stretches of golden sand, stunning history, and party-mad resorts - it seems Turkey is reaping the benefits of anti-tourist sentiment in hotspots like Greece and Spain. However, the country, which is mainly located in West Asia but also covers a small part of Southeast Europe, has long prohibited the sale of vapes.
While technically not a new rule, purchasing or distributing e-cigarettes and liquids is prohibited in the country. According to Reuters, many people still buy vaping products in the country online - but this could land tourists in hot water.
"We've heard of so many travellers returning from Antalya, Marmaris, and Bodrum saying they were caught completely off guard," Mike Byers, a vape expert over at WickdUp explained. "Shops that once stocked basic vape gear now won't sell it at all — and if you're used to picking up supplies on arrival, you could be left without."
Luckily, Brits are still allowed to bring in 'personal supplies' of vapes and liquid into Turkey. Most vape brands agree this classed as 'one device, spare pods or refill bottles no greater than 30ml in volume, or up to 10 disposable vapes per person'.
"Having a larger supply of e-liquids is easier to explain than carrying multiple devices, so it's best to pack only what you'll realistically use during your stay," advises vape brand Freesmo. "The general rule is to avoid raising any suspicion that you're importing vapes for sale."
Turkey also classifies e-cigarettes as tobacco products, which are all banned for those under the age of 19. So, just because you can legally vape in the UK, doesn't mean you will be able to if you're visiting the country this year.
Last month, Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Ersoy said after the ITB Berlin Fair that Turkey was witnessing 'signs of new records in tourism' as it attempts to bolster its appeal as a holiday destination. "Turkey has become the country with the highest number of early reservations in Germany," the politician added.
"We aim to welcome over seven million visitors from both Russia and Germany this year. Additionally, we expect 4.8 million visitors from the U.K. in 2025"
The ambitious target may have taken a slight hit following the 6.2-magnitude earthquake that occurred in the Sea of Marmara on April 23, 2025, and saw thousands of terrified locals flee their homes while their buildings shook. A smaller 4.7-magnitude quake hit the village of Doğanyol just five days later. No deaths were reported from either incident.
The FCDO also advises against all types of travel to within 10km of the border with Syria due to 'fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism'. However, this does not impact popular hotspots such as Bodrum, Antalya, and Istanbul.
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