Samui International Airport (USM)

Koh Samui Airport (USM) is one of the more smoker-friendly airports in Thailand, largely because of its open-air, resort-style layout. Smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas, and all indoor smoking is banned under Thai law as of February 2019. Vaping, heat-not-burn products, and e-cigarettes are also banned throughout Thailand's airports.

Before Security

Landside, smoking is only allowed in the designated outdoor areas outside the terminal building. You cannot smoke freely on the kerb or in the check-in hall. Head outside the terminal to find the designated spots, which are clearly signed.

After Security

This is where USM genuinely stands out compared to most Thai airports. There are outdoor smoking areas accessible after clearing security in both the domestic and international departures zones:

• Domestic Departures (Gates 1, 2, and 3): A traveler reported in October 2025 that a smoking area exists outside Gate 1. An earlier report from September 2022 described a beautiful outdoor smoking area in the shops section after check-in, plus another open-air spot behind Gate 2 with views onto the tarmac. These areas feature rustic wooden furniture, bean bags, thatched-roof shelters, and lush garden surroundings with mountain views.

• International Departures (Gates 6 and 7): A signed outdoor smoking garden is located behind the VAT refund kiosk near Gate 7. Follow signs toward the VAT office and you will see a smoking area sign as you approach. Travelers in early 2023 described it as a pleasant, well-kept garden nook with wooden chairs and shade structures.

Smoking Rooms

There are no enclosed indoor smoking rooms at USM. All designated smoking spots are open-air outdoor areas, which suits the airport's tropical, open-plan design well.

Vaping Rules

Vaping and e-cigarettes are banned throughout Thailand, including at the airport. This is a national law, not just an airport rule. Penalties can be significant, so leave your vape device in your checked luggage or at home.

Transit and Layovers

If you are connecting through USM and need to change between domestic and international terminals, you may need to exit the secure zone, pass through immigration, smoke outside, and then re-clear security for your onward flight. Allow extra time if this applies to you.

Bottom Line

USM is one of the better airports in Thailand for smokers, with genuine outdoor areas both before and after security in both the domestic and international zones. Just leave the vape at home.