Are Vapes legal in Costa Rica?

The sale of e-cigarettes is allowed subject to restrictions including location-based sales restrictions, restrictions on vending machine sales, product notification and a minimum sales age. The use of e-cigarettes is prohibited in all indoor public places, indoor workplaces, and means of public transport.



As of early 2026, vaping remains legal in Costa Rica, but it is under extremely strict regulation following recent government crackdowns. On February 6, 2026, the Ministry of Health issued Executive Decree No. 45479-S, which implements a comprehensive sanitary framework for all vaping products. While you can still purchase and use vapes, there is now a total ban on advertising, promotion, and digital sales of vaping liquids. Furthermore, it is strictly prohibited to vape in public spaces, including parks, bus stops, bars, and restaurants, similar to the country's tobacco laws. Travelers should be aware that all vaping products must now feature health warnings covering 50% of the packaging, and certain flavorings—specifically those deemed "attractive to minors"—are being phased out or banned entirely. If you are traveling to Costa Rica with a personal device, you are generally permitted to bring it for personal use, but you must strictly adhere to the designated smoking/vaping areas to avoid heavy fines.

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Your luggage will be scanned and in some cases hand searched. Please be aware you may not bring plants, seeds, vegetables, or fruits into Costa Rica. 4. Exit the building and you will see your driver with a sign with your name and our Logo.

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If you're wondering “Is Costa Rica expensive?”, the answer is yes and no. Compared to other Central American countries like Nicaragua or El Salvador, Costa Rica is generally more on the expensive side. It's pretty well-developed and has a thriving tourism industry, so things do cost more.

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Every airport is different within the US—some airports have designated vaping areas and some will not allow vapes at all.

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Also, airlines may have regulations that passengers must consider to avoid confiscating their vape. Remember, you can carry the vape and e-cigarette only in the carry-on luggage, not the checked luggage. Here are a few tips on how to pack a vape for a flight: Pack your vape in an air-tight bag or case.

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Vapes are not allowed in your checked luggage. If found, the officials may confiscate your device as it is considered a safety hazard. Restrictions and regulations vary from airport to airport and from airline to airline. Also, it is important to understand the norms of the destination country.

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Disposable nicotine vapes are allowed on an airplane, but only in carry-on luggage or personal storage—never in checked luggage due to the lithium-ion battery inside. And going through TSA with a disposable vape is fine, as long as you put it in the container with your other devices and items that contain metal.

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When you are actually going through security, it's recommended to remove your e-cigarette/vape, place it in a tray/bin, and put it through the x-ray scanner separately from your carry-on bag. If you keep it in your bag, it could look suspicious and cause you to undergo additional screening.

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