Electronic Cigarettes Online

Given the ongoing coronavirus global pandemic, many consumer goods are being retailed via online channels only. Because of social distancing legislation and other measures used to combat the spread of COVID-19, conventional retailing has been halted and inhibited in many countries, states and territories. If you vape or use e-cigarettes, there is no need to be alarmed because you can still easily fulfil your needs by purchasing electronic cigarettes online. Chances are you were already purchasing your products this way before the coronavirus pandemic started.

The laws

In Australia, the regulation surrounding the consumption of e-cigarettes is highly complicated. Indeed, the laws can differ slightly from state to state, with some states banning e-cigarette use altogether. The sale of e-cigarettes online containing nicotine cannot occur anywhere in Australia, however, Western Australia have taken that law even further, completely banning the sale of e-cigarettes (or products resembling tobacco instruments), regardless of whether they contain nicotine. This decision was upheld by the Supreme Court of Western Australia in 2016.

In NSW, e-cigarettes not containing nicotine can be purchased and sold. When used in public places, vapers must abide by the smoking regulations in line with the current legislation (The Public Health Act 2008). It is illegal to advertise, promote or display e-cigarettes, along with the sale and use of e-liquids that contain nicotine.

Available range online

Purchasing electronic cigarettes online will give you access to a wide range of available styles and flavours. In fact, most users purchase their e-cigarettes online because of the laws surrounding the marketing and promotion of e-cigarette use. For example, e-cigarettes cannot be “seen” by the public, meaning they cannot be displayed in traditional retail stores or temporary market/mobile stalls (like on the shelves). Because of this reason, most e-cigarette users source their products online.

The style of e-cigarettes has changed quite significantly over the last few years, as new manufacturers have entered the market, encouraging innovation. Most modern e-cigarette styles are sleek and streamlined, often resembling the appearance and utility of a conventional tobacco cigarette. Whatever style you want, you should be able to find it on the web somewhere.

What if I don’t like what I bought?

Because you are buying your e-cigarettes online, you can’t exactly test or trial what you’ve purchased. As a piece of advice, it is recommended that you only purchase from suppliers that offer you some form of financial security – like a money-back guarantee. Most Australian retailers offer this to their customers, however, don’t assume that they do. Retailers are only legally required to offer you your money back if the product is defective or broken.

When you’re navigating through their paywall, make sure you read the fine print about their return policy and warranties. The return policy could be anywhere from 7 days to 30 days, so it is important to be proactive and punctual if you are unhappy with what you purchased (for whatever reason).

Remember your vaping etiquette

Using e-cigarettes can be a social minefield. Australia already has smoking rules in place that prohibit smoking in many areas, however, there are specific public environments that enforce more stringent practices. At the end of the day, it’s best to stick to the following tips:

• Always ask the owner of the establishment if you’re unsure for clarification
• If you’re in a private setting, ask those around you for their permission before you begin vaping (generally, you should take it outside)
• Do not blow your vapour into another person’s face, even if you are in a public place that allows it. While you might enjoy the smell of the vapour, non-smokers may not enjoy it.