VAPE GUIDEs

VAPE TIPS

TRAVEL GUIDES

Is There a Smoking Area in Stansted Airport?

If you're flying from London Stansted Airport and wondering whether you can smoke before your flight, the answer is: yes—but only before security. Once you’ve passed through security and entered the departure lounge, there are no smoking or vaping areas inside the terminal.

Here’s what you need to know about smoking at Stansted Airport so you can plan ahead.

Is There a Smoking Area at Stansted Airport?

Yes, but it’s located outside the terminal building, before security. You’ll find the designated smoking area near the entrance, in a clearly marked zone equipped with ashtrays.

Smoking—including cigarettes, cigars, and vapes—is only allowed in this outdoor smoking area.

Are There Smoking Areas After Security?

No. Once you pass through security and enter the departures area, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited. There are:

  • No smoking lounges

  • No outdoor terraces

  • No designated vape zones

If you want to smoke or vape, you’ll need to do so before going through security, as you won’t be able to go back outside afterwards.

Can You Vape at Stansted Airport?

Vaping is treated the same as smoking at Stansted. You can only use e-cigarettes in the designated outdoor smoking area before security. Vaping is not permitted:

  • Inside the terminal

  • In the departures lounge

  • At the boarding gates

If you're carrying a vape device, make sure it’s packed in your hand luggage, and that e-liquids are under 100ml and placed in a clear plastic bag at security.

Final Tips for Smokers at Stansted

  • Smoke before you go through security—there’s no opportunity after

  • Allow extra time if you want a cigarette before boarding

  • Consider nicotine gum or patches for longer flights or layovers

  • Respect the smoking rules—ignoring them could result in warnings or fines

Final Word

Stansted Airport does have a smoking area—but only outside the terminal before security. Once you’ve cleared security, you won’t be able to smoke or vape anywhere inside the airport. If you're a smoker, be sure to plan ahead and use the outdoor smoking zone before heading to departures.