Philly has some strict rules about smoking, and it may be challenging to find designated smoking zones. To prevent any issues or penalties regarding smoking, it’s best to play it safe and keep your cigarettes at home. There are ways to ensure you won’t be bothered by cravings or withdrawals during your visit, keeping your trip to Philly fun. Here’s what you should know about smoking in Philly and what to do instead:
Smoking Rules in Philly
In Philly, smoking is banned in most indoor areas like restaurants, bars, and workplaces as part of the Clean Indoor Air Worker Protection Law. Lobbies, hallways, stairwells, and other common areas in many multi-unit buildings are also smoke-free zones. Some outdoor dining and service spaces also prohibit smoking. These rules extend to traditional tobacco cigarettes, cigars, and even electronic smoking products such as e-cigarettes, e-cigars, and e-hookah. Secondhand smoke is a significant issue in the city, and these rules prevent people who frequent or work in these areas or establishments from being harmed by secondhand smoke.
Philly also has anti-smoking campaigns to discourage cigarette usage and change perceptions of smoking, as the habit contributes to the deaths of around 3,700 Philadelphians each year. The most recent campaign aims to reach out to groups who frequently smoke, which includes LGBTQ+ people, veterans, individuals living with psychiatric illness and substance use disorders, and food and hospitality service workers. The campaign’s motto is “If I can quit, so can you.” Philly has also recruited former smokers to share their stories of quitting and recovery and what motivated them to avoid cigarettes.
Philly’s attitude toward smoking isn’t the friendliest, so bringing cigarettes may not be the right move for your trip. However, experiencing nicotine cravings or withdrawal symptoms is not pleasant either, so here’s what you can do to combat them in Philly:
Use NRTs
You don’t need to worry about not getting a nicotine fix while visiting Philly, as more smokeless and tobacco-free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products have hit the market. They’re used to help people reduce and quit using nicotine gradually. They’re also an excellent alternative to cigarettes when traveling as there’s not much regulation on them, and they’re found to be reduced-risk products that don’t have the same health impacts as tobacco products.
Nicotine pouches, an emerging product in the US, are popular for their discreetness and portability. Prilla stocks smokeless On! nicotine pouches and they are one of the biggest brands on the market, known for their ultra-compact mini-dry format that keeps pouches invisible and not prone to excessive drip. A wide range of flavors, including citrus, cinnamon, and wintergreen, ensure users find one that suits their tastes. Another option is nicotine gum, which can be bought over the counter in most convenience stores, groceries, and other retailers without a prescription. Nicotinell nicotine gum was recently introduced to help smokers end nicotine dependence, and it can be used to curb cravings when you’re on the go. It looks like regular chewing gum, so you won’t be placed under scrutiny for taking it with you in public.
Stay Engaged
There are many things to do in Philly that can help take your mind off smoking. Visiting historical museums like Penn Museum, enjoy outdoor fun in Franklin Square on their Philly Mini Golf courses, or admire the animals in Philadelphia Zoo, among many other activities you can do in the city. These things require your attention for the best experience, so they can help keep your mind from wandering toward smoking.
Having fun with friends and family also adds extra support. If some of you are smokers, committing to stay smoke-free during your visit can be more encouraging to everyone. Constantly staying engaged with things to do and sharing this time with loved ones can effectively minimize smoking and exposure to triggers.
Leaving your cigarettes at home when you visit Philly is the safest thing you can do. Reducing your cigarette consumption in Philly doesn’t have to be a struggle. There are many things to do and many alternatives to try that can keep your trip pleasant.
