Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, offers a relatively accommodating smoking policy for travelers, with designated areas available both before and after security checkpoints. This is a welcome feature for many international and domestic passengers, especially given the often lengthy security lines and wait times at busy airports. The airport has made efforts to provide specific locations for smokers, ensuring that passengers do not have to leave the airport premises entirely to smoke once they have passed through security. Before passing through security, smoking is strictly limited to designated outdoor areas located outside the terminal buildings. Travelers should look for appropriate signage indicating these zones. It's important to complete any smoking activities before entering the terminal for check-in and security screening, as re-entry after security for a smoke is generally not feasible without going through the entire process again, which is impractical for most connecting or departing passengers. Always allow ample time if you plan to smoke before entering the terminal. Once past security, SGN provides several indoor smoking rooms and lounges across its terminals. In Domestic Terminal 1, travelers can find a smoking room near Gate 18, which was confirmed to be available as recently as November 2022. Another smoking area is also reported near Gate 15 in this terminal, with good signage to guide passengers. For those departing from International Terminal 2, there are multiple options. A "much nicer" smoking area is located upstairs, accessible via the escalator between the two security exits, and is situated within the Saigon Cafe. Additionally, there's a smoking lounge near Gate 17, and two other smoking areas near Gates 15 and 18, all within the international departures area. While some of these facilities might show signs of wear, they are functional and provide a necessary amenity for smokers during their transit. Recent updates also indicate the presence of smoking facilities in the newer Domestic Terminal 3. As of October 2025, this terminal is expected to feature two smoking rooms: one on the top floor and another on the bottom floor near Gate 1. These additions demonstrate the airport's continued commitment to providing designated smoking spaces. Travelers are advised to always follow airport signage and staff instructions regarding smoking locations. While vaping policy is not explicitly stated, it is generally prudent to assume that vaping is subject to the same restrictions as traditional smoking within airport premises, meaning it should only be done in designated smoking areas. Adhering to these rules ensures a smooth and compliant travel experience at SGN.