A recent survey has revealed that a staggering 71% of smokers and vapers have lit up in areas where it’s strictly prohibited.
The study, which involved 1,000 adults, discovered that popular spots for rule-breaking include train stations, playgrounds, parks, and even at the gym.
Vapers were found to be more likely to break the rules than their smoking counterparts, with 37% of vapers compared to 31% of cigarette smokers confessing to lighting up in forbidden areas.
According to the survey, of those who smoke or vape in restricted spaces, 24% do it a few times a week, if not every day and while 57% admit to feelings of guilt, they also said that they simply ‘couldn’t help themselves’.
The study was conducted by nicotine pouch retailer Two Wombats. A company spokesperson said that while people still struggle to break old habits, it’s not just about rules—”it’s about respecting the health and comfort of others.
“Lighting up where you shouldn’t put more than just your wallet at risk through fines; it impacts everyone around you.”
So what’s driving this behaviour? It appears that 70% will light up if they can’t locate a designated zone. Furthermore, 58% claim they decided to smoke or vape in a restricted area after witnessing someone else do it first.
Three quarters of those surveyed expressed confidence in not getting ‘caught’. Moreover, while 32% felt anxious when doing it, 23% experienced ‘a sense of thrill’.
A significant 72% believe it’s ‘easier’ to discreetly smoke as a vaper. But despite this, 18% of those overall have been fined after being spotted smoking in a prohbitied area.
The study also revealed the UK regions most likely to smoke where the shouldn’t. According to the survey, Yorkshire smokers were the biggest rule-breakers with 33% confessing to lighting up in restricted areas several times a year, compared to just 18% in the North West.
Workplace smoking was notably higher in Wales, where 34% admitted to breaking the rules. However, in Northern Ireland, a whopping 70% of users feel guilty about smoking where they shouldn’t, while Yorkshire showed the least remorse at just 39%.
Across most regions, pubs, hotel rooms and beaches were the top spots where individuals were most likely to smoke where they shouldn’t.
A spokesperson for Two Wombats commented: “We’re living in a time where there are better, smarter options. The fact that people are still risking fines and social disapproval shows how strong nicotine cravings can be.”
“Other options, such as nicotine pouches, can offer a discreet, smoke free, legal and a hassle-free way to manage the cravings without the consequences.”
