Thousands of Scotland fans traveling to North America for the 2026 World Cup will encounter different drinking, vaping, and ID laws. The Tartan Army is set to descend on the continent for Scotland's first World Cup appearance since 1998, and supporters are urged to familiarize themselves with local regulations before hitting the streets of Boston and Miami.
From varying drinking ages to strict vaping restrictions and ID requirements, what is legal in Scotland could lead to problems abroad. Football expert Jon Fisher of 101 Great Goals warns fans not to assume rules are the same as at home. "This is exactly the kind of thing that can ruin a once-in-a-lifetime trip," he said. "The World Cup is going to be incredible, but fans have to remember they are traveling across countries where laws can change from one border, state, or venue to the next."
United States
One of the biggest surprises for young supporters is the legal drinking age in the US. While Scots can legally buy alcohol from 18, the legal drinking age across the US is 21. This means supporters aged 18, 19, and 20 cannot consume or buy alcohol in bars, restaurants, supermarkets, stadiums, or fan zones. Jon said: "In America, that same supporter is still underage, and that can come as a massive shock. Parents, older siblings, and mates need to be careful too. Buying a drink for someone who is 19 or 20 might feel normal at home, but in the US it can become a serious issue quickly."
Public drinking rules are also stricter than in Scotland. In Florida, public consumption of alcohol is generally prohibited on streets, pavements, and in public parks. Massachusetts does not have a statewide ban, but most cities and towns enforce local bylaws prohibiting open containers in public spaces. Supporters should check local regulations before drinking in public.
Another important difference is ID. The UK Foreign Office advises travelers to carry their passports in the US, stating visitors should always have proof of permission to enter or remain. Fans must be extra cautious with their passports, as losing one could cause major problems. Those buying alcohol should expect to be asked for ID regardless of age. A UK driving license may not always be accepted, so supporters should check requirements before heading to bars, fan zones, or stadiums.
Mexico
For supporters traveling to Mexico, the legal drinking age is 18, which may feel more familiar. However, laws around vaping are significantly tougher. Fans are advised not to bring e-cigarettes, vapes, or vape liquids into Mexico and should not expect to buy them there. Jon explained: "Mexico is another danger for supporters. The drinking age may be 18, but the rules around vapes are much tougher. Packing a vape because you use one at home could cause problems before you've even got out of the airport." Smoking and vaping in public places in Mexico can lead to fines.
Canada
Fans heading through Canada should also remember that drinking laws differ. The legal drinking age is 19 in most provinces, including Ontario and British Columbia, where World Cup matches will be held in Toronto and Vancouver. Supporters aged 18 should not assume they can legally buy alcohol there.
Even where something is permitted locally, stadium regulations may be stricter. FIFA has stated that smoking, vaping, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices are not permitted inside World Cup stadiums, including both inner and outer perimeters. Supporters should avoid bringing vapes, lighters, matches, or tobacco products to stadium entrances, as they could be confiscated or cause delays.
With thousands of Scotland fans expected to make the journey, Jon emphasized the importance of following the rules to avoid unwanted surprises. Scotland's group stage matches are set to take place in Boston and Miami, with the first game against Haiti at Boston Stadium on Saturday, June 13. The second game against Morocco will also be at Boston Stadium on Friday, June 19, and the third will see Steve Clarke's side face Brazil at Miami Stadium on Wednesday, June 24. Fans traveling across the US, Canada, and Mexico during the tournament should stay informed.
