Bongs have been a cornerstone of smoking culture for decades, loved for their ability to deliver smoother, cooler, and more enjoyable hits.
From simple acrylic designs to intricate multi-chamber glass setups, bongs come in all shapes and sizes — each with its own style and purpose.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover what bongs are, how they work, where to buy them, and whether they’re legal in Australia.
What Are Bongs?
A bong (also known as a water pipe) is a device that uses water filtration to cool and clean smoke before it’s inhaled. It typically consists of:
- A bowl or cone piece – where the material is placed.
- A downstem – which guides the smoke into the water.
- A water chamber – where the smoke is filtered and cooled.
- A mouthpiece – where the user inhales.
When you light the bowl and inhale, smoke travels through the water, removing impurities and lowering the temperature before reaching your lungs. The result? Smoother, less harsh hits compared to dry pipes or joints.
For a wide selection of styles and materials, check out the latest range of bongs available at Bong Empire — one of Australia’s most trusted online stores for quality smoking gear.
How Do Bongs Work?
The science behind bongs is surprisingly simple yet effective. When you inhale through the mouthpiece, it creates suction that pulls air through the bowl and downstem. As the smoke passes through water, tiny bubbles form, increasing surface area and cooling the smoke rapidly.
This process also traps heavier particles and toxins, resulting in cleaner, smoother inhalation. Many smokers find that bongs offer better flavour, less throat irritation, and a more efficient experience compared to other methods.
Advanced designs, such as percolator bongs or ice catcher bongs, further enhance filtration by diffusing smoke multiple times or adding ice for extra cooling.
Are Bongs Illegal in Australia?
This is one of the most common questions asked by smokers across the country — and the answer depends on the state or territory you live in.
While bongs are legal to sell and own as “water pipes” or “tobacco accessories” in many areas, their intended use plays a big role in legality. If they are explicitly marketed or described for use with illicit substances, they can fall under prohibited items in certain jurisdictions.
Here’s a quick overview:
- Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and WA – Retailers can sell bongs as tobacco accessories.
- South Australia & Northern Territory – Regulations are looser, though marketing restrictions still apply.
- ACT – Personal possession laws are more relaxed, but retail sale still requires compliance with local standards.
The bottom line: owning and using a bong for legal tobacco or herbal blends is not a crime. However, always buy from reputable retailers who comply with Australian retail laws.
Types of Bongs
Bongs come in a wide variety of materials, shapes, and designs, each offering unique benefits:
1. Acrylic Bongs
Affordable and durable, these are perfect for beginners or those who want a travel-friendly option.
2. Glass Bongs
The most popular choice for experienced smokers, glass bongs deliver clean flavour and premium filtration. They’re often made from borosilicate glass, which is heat-resistant and easy to clean.
You can explore the full collection of glass bongs at Bong Empire to find designs that suit your preferences — from simple straight tubes to intricate percolator models.
3. Silicone Bongs
Flexible, unbreakable, and easy to wash — great for outdoor use or travel.
4. Ceramic Bongs
Artistic and aesthetic, often used as decorative pieces as much as functional ones.
5. Percolator Bongs
Feature built-in diffusers that cool smoke multiple times, offering the smoothest hits available.
How to Use a Bong
Using a bong is straightforward once you understand the basics:
- Add water – Fill the base until the downstem is submerged about 2–3 cm.
- Pack the bowl – Grind your material and place it lightly in the cone piece.
- Light and inhale – As you inhale, smoke will bubble through the water.
- Clear the chamber – Remove the bowl and take a final deep breath to draw in the remaining smoke.
Tip: Clean your bong regularly with isopropyl alcohol and coarse salt to maintain fresh flavour and airflow.
Where to Buy Bongs in Australia
Finding a reliable retailer is essential for quality, safety, and discretion. That’s where Bong Empire stands out — an Australian-based online store offering:
- A huge range of glass, acrylic, and silicone bongs.
- Discreet packaging for your privacy.
- Fast, Australia-wide delivery.
Their curated collection includes everything from beginner-friendly options to advanced multi-chamber pieces. Whether you’re upgrading your setup or buying your first bong, Bong Empire has something for every smoker.
Benefits of Using Bongs
- Smoother hits thanks to water filtration.
- Cooler smoke that’s easier on your throat and lungs.
- Cleaner flavour since impurities are filtered out.
- Less waste, as bongs burn material efficiently.
- Reusable and durable, especially with high-quality glass models.
For many Australian smokers, the bong isn’t just a tool — it’s a ritual.
FAQs About Bongs
- How do bongs work?
A. They use water to cool and filter smoke, creating smoother and cleaner hits. - Are bongs illegal in Australia?
A. No — bongs can be sold and owned legally as tobacco accessories in most states, but cannot be marketed for illegal use. - Where can I buy bongs online?
A. You can buy high-quality bongs online from trusted Australian retailers like Bong Empire, which offers discreet shipping nationwide. - What are bongs made from?
A. Common materials include glass, acrylic, silicone, and ceramic — each offering unique benefits.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer a simple acrylic bong or a premium multi-perc glass bong, there’s no denying their popularity and effectiveness. By cooling and filtering smoke, they deliver a smoother, more enjoyable experience that other methods can’t match.
For Australians looking to explore quality, style, and function, Bong Empire remains one of the best places to buy bongs in Australia. Their range caters to every preference — from classic designs to advanced glass innovations.