The Smoker’s Guide to Smokeless Tobacco-Free Travel

Countries worldwide have been developing ways to curb the dangerous habit of smoking for decades, but many locations have become much more strict with smoking bans in recent years. France is looking to ban e-cigarettes, Mexico banned smoking in all public places and prohibited tobacco promotion, and the UK is aiming to raise the age for buying cigarettes every year to prevent people of certain ages from ever buying cigarettes. With countries tackling tobacco more thoroughly, this could be a struggle for smokers looking to travel. Not being able to smoke or buy cigarettes can be a challenge when dealing with cravings or withdrawal. However, it’s not impossible to take a trip without smoking. Here’s a guide for smokers to enjoy smokeless, tobacco-free travel anywhere in the world:

Take note of triggers

A greater awareness of what causes you to smoke can help you tamp down on smoking urges before they become overwhelming. Identifying your smoking triggers can help you stay clear of them while visiting another country. If you smoke often at bars or while drinking, you can avoid consuming alcohol or visiting popular nightlife spots. Your triggers may also be emotional; you may feel stressed or anxious while traveling, which can prompt you to smoke for relief. 

Before your trip, take note of these triggers so you can become more mindful of them while traveling. Devise coping mechanisms if emotions run high so you can channel them in healthier ways other than smoking. Meditate in your hotel room, chew gum to occupy your mouth, or leave your smoking paraphernalia at home. You can also plan your itinerary to avoid common smoking locations or places where tobacco is sold; skip the French tabac stores and Cuban cigar bars. For extra motivation, reframe your mindset by looking at the positives, such as how staying smoke-free on your trip can help protect your health and allow you to travel more in the future. 

Use smokeless alternatives

Cravings can be tough to beat, especially when you’re traveling in a place with strict tobacco laws. Consider using smokeless alternatives instead. These alternatives are smoke and tobacco-free, allowing you to curb your smoking urges without the negative health impacts of tobacco products or strict restrictions. Smokeless nicotine pouches have become increasingly popular thanks to the wide range of brands, flavors, and nicotine strengths now available, even online. Consider your preferences and smoking experience; pick a milder option like the On! Mint 2mg, or go for the more intense Lucy Espresso 12mg. You can use pouches on the go, too; tuck one under your lip for an hour and enjoy sightseeing in the city or lounging on the beach without fuss.

You can also use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products as alternatives, which are approved for smoking cessation. Nicotine gum, lozenges, sprays, and more can help you tackle sudden cravings and reduce your tobacco dependence. Nicotine patches are one of the more popular NRT options since they can provide a steady dose of nicotine, even up to 24 hours. Habitrolnicotine patches are sold in varying strengths and can easily be bought over the counter. Stick one on underneath your clothes to curb smoking urges discreetly for the whole day. 

Track your progress

Staying smoke-free while traveling can feel futile and frustrating, especially if you’re dealing with cravings or withdrawal. However, being able to track your progress can encourage you to stay consistent. Having a way to visualize how going without cigarettes is improving your health and body can help you push forward and enable you to stick to your goals even when you’re far from home.

Downloading a mobile app can help you easily access important statistics and record milestones. Apps, like Kick It, can provide a personalized dashboard that keeps track of your last cigarette and how much money you’ve saved by staying smoke-free while traveling. Positive messaging can offer support and encouragement, and gamified aspects like missions and tasks can make the experience more enjoyable and rewarding. When you see the benefits of staying away from cigarettes, you may want to stick to it even after your trip is over.