Finding the Best Smoking Areas in Canadian Airports

With increasing restrictions on smoking in public spaces, it can be challenging for smokers to find convenient places to smoke, especially when travelling. Airports, known for their strict regulations, are no exception. If you’re planning to fly in or out of Canada and want to know where you can legally and comfortably enjoy a smoke, this guide is for you.

Below, we’ll provide a comprehensive list of Canadian airports that offer smoking areas, tips on navigating airport regulations, and advice on how to maximize your experience. This blog post is tailored to help smokers enjoy stress-free travel while adhering to local regulations.

Why It’s Important to Know About Smoking Areas in Airports

Airports are often high-stress environments, and for smokers, the long wait times and restrictions can add extra anxiety. Knowing where designated smoking areas are located can make a significant difference in your travel experience. By planning ahead, you can avoid unnecessary stress, respect the regulations, and enjoy a moment of relaxation.

Many airports in Canada have specific smoking policies, and with smoking prohibited in many indoor spaces, it’s crucial to be informed. Additionally, some airports have designated outdoor smoking areas, which are often the only places where smoking is allowed. Whether you’re a frequent traveller or an occasional flyer, this guide will help you find the best smoking areas at Canadian airports.

Understanding Canadian Airport Smoking Regulations

Canada has strict anti-smoking regulations, and these rules apply to airports as well. Smoking is not allowed inside terminals, and fines can be steep for violators. However, airports do provide designated smoking areas for travellers who need to smoke before or after their flights. These areas are typically located outside the terminal buildings, well away from entrances to ensure compliance with public health laws.

It’s important to remember that electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and vaping devices are often treated similarly to traditional tobacco products in Canadian airports. Always check the specific airport’s rules for vaping, as regulations can differ slightly from province to province.

Top Canadian Airports with Smoking Areas

Let’s break down the major Canadian airports and their respective smoking policies so you can plan your trip more effectively. Below is a list of Canada’s busiest airports and details about where you can find smoking areas.

1. Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Toronto Pearson is the busiest airport in Canada, handling millions of passengers annually. Smoking is not permitted inside the terminals, but there are several designated outdoor smoking areas.

Locations: Smoking areas are located outside both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. You’ll find clearly marked signs near the exits, ensuring compliance with the airport’s smoking rules.
Tip: If you have a connecting flight, ensure you leave enough time to clear security again, as all smoking areas are outside of the terminals.

2. Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Vancouver International offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Pearson but still adheres to Canada’s strict smoking regulations. Smoking is only allowed in specific outdoor areas.

Locations: Designated smoking areas can be found outside the terminal buildings, near the entrance doors. These areas are well-signed, making them easy to find.
Tip: Be aware of the weather when using outdoor smoking areas. Vancouver is known for its rain, so consider packing an umbrella if you need to step outside for a smoke.

3. Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL)

Montréal’s international airport also enforces a strict no-smoking policy within the terminal, but there are convenient outdoor smoking areas.

Locations: The smoking areas are located outside the terminal entrances. There are also designated spots in the parking areas.
Tip: Ensure you have your boarding pass and ID with you, as re-entering the terminal requires going through security, which can sometimes be time-consuming.

4. Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Calgary International follows the same pattern as other Canadian airports with no indoor smoking. Smokers can only use the outdoor areas.

Locations: You’ll find smoking areas outside of the main terminal doors. There are also designated spots at the international arrivals and departures sections.
Tip: If you’re travelling during winter, be prepared for Calgary’s cold temperatures when heading outside to smoke.

5. Edmonton International Airport (YEG)

Edmonton International offers a small but convenient outdoor smoking area.

Locations: Smoking areas are located just outside the terminal entrances. Like other airports, these areas are well-marked and positioned away from the doors.
Tip: Edmonton can have severe winter weather, so be ready for freezing conditions when stepping outside to smoke.

6. Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)

As the primary airport serving Canada’s capital, Ottawa’s Macdonald-Cartier Airport is also smoke-free indoors, but outdoor areas are available.

Locations: Smoking is allowed in designated areas outside the terminal building, typically near the parking lots.
Tip: Ottawa has a relatively small airport, so make sure you give yourself enough time to re-enter the terminal after smoking.

7. Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)

Halifax Stanfield International is the largest airport in Atlantic Canada and provides outdoor smoking areas for travellers.

Locations: Designated smoking areas can be found outside the terminal building, close to the entrance and exit points.
Tip: The Halifax airport is relatively small, so it’s easier to navigate between smoking areas and the terminal. However, weather can be unpredictable, so dress appropriately if you plan to smoke outdoors.

8. Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport (YWG)

In Winnipeg, the James Armstrong Richardson International Airport has no indoor smoking areas, but designated outdoor spots are available.

Locations: Smoking areas are located outside the terminal entrances, with signs indicating the smoking zones.
Tip: Winnipeg can get extremely cold during winter months, so plan ahead if you need to step outside for a smoke.

Navigating Security and Re-entry After Smoking

One of the biggest challenges smokers face at airports is the need to go through security again after smoking. Because all smoking areas are located outside the terminals, you will have to exit the secure zone to access them. Keep the following tips in mind:

Time Management: Be sure to allocate enough time to go outside for a smoke and then pass through security again. During peak travel times, security lines can be long, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
Boarding Pass and ID: Always have your boarding pass and ID handy. You’ll need to present these to re-enter the terminal and pass through security.
Check Airport Maps: Many airports provide online maps showing smoking areas. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the layout so you know exactly where to go when you arrive.

Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping in Canadian Airports

Electronic cigarettes and vaping are also restricted in Canadian airports, and they are generally treated the same as traditional smoking. Most airports do not allow vaping inside the terminals, and you’ll need to use the designated outdoor smoking areas. It’s best to err on the side of caution and check each airport’s website for specific guidelines regarding vaping.

Some travellers assume that because vaping doesn’t involve combustion, it’s permissible indoors. However, Canadian airports follow strict rules, and you could face fines or penalties for vaping in non-designated areas.

Best Practices for Smokers at Airports

To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when travelling through Canadian airports as a smoker, follow these best practices:

Plan Ahead: Check airport websites or maps to locate smoking areas before you travel. Knowing where you can smoke ahead of time can help you avoid rushing and reduce travel anxiety.
Be Courteous: Always respect non-smokers and ensure you are only smoking in designated areas. Canadian airports take smoking regulations seriously, and violating these rules can result in fines.
Prepare for Weather: Many smoking areas are outdoors, and Canadian weather can be unpredictable. Whether it’s rain, snow, or extreme cold, be prepared with proper clothing if you plan to use an outdoor smoking area.
Carry Essentials: Don’t forget your ID, boarding pass, and other necessary travel documents if you leave the terminal to smoke. You will need these to re-enter the secure area of the airport.
Watch the Clock: Time your smoking breaks wisely. You don’t want to miss your flight because of long security lines or spending too much time outside.

Conclusion

Finding the best smoking areas in Canadian airports doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan ahead and follow the rules. From Toronto Pearson to Vancouver International, most major airports in Canada offer designated outdoor smoking areas for travellers. By familiarizing yourself with the locations of these spots, managing your time, and being mindful of re-entering security, you can enjoy a smoke without the hassle. Always remember to check specific airport policies regarding smoking and vaping to ensure a smooth experience while travelling.

For more travel tips and guides related to smoking, visit Smokes Canada and explore our wide range of products and resources designed for smokers in Canada.

References

Government of Canada. (2023). Regulating tobacco and vaping products: Tobacco regulations. Available at: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/smoking-tobacco/regulating-tobacco-vaping/tobacco.html