Disposables are gone — here’s how to make the switch smoothly
If you’ve been relying on disposable vapes, the recent UK-wide ban might have caught you off guard. Whether you used them for convenience, flavour, or just out of habit, it’s a big shift — and you’re not alone if you’re wondering what to do next.
But here’s the good news: switching to a refillable kit isn’t just easy — it’s a serious upgrade.
At Vapeology, we’ve helped loads of customers move over from disposables to open systems. The most common thing we hear?
“This is actually better. Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
So if you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed, here’s your simple guide to moving on from disposables — without losing the flavours or experience you loved.
🚫 First Things First: Why Were Disposables Banned?
The government has introduced a full ban on single-use disposable vapes in the UK due to:
- Environmental waste (millions ending up in landfill every week)
- Youth vaping concerns
- Tougher product regulations and sustainability initiatives
You can read the full announcement on GOV.UK here.
While the ban is a big shake-up, it’s also a great opportunity to move towards cheaper, greener, and more satisfying vape options.
🔄 What’s Replacing Disposables?
The closest thing to a disposable now? A refillable pod kit with nic salt e-liquid.
These kits are:
- Reusable (less waste)
- Rechargeable (no battery waste)
- Refillable (huge flavour variety)
- Inexpensive to run
Most are just as small and simple as the disposables you’re used to — but last far longer and give you more control over your vape.
🧠 What You’ll Need to Get Started
✅ A Beginner-Friendly Pod Kit
Look for something that’s:
- Draw-activated (just puff — no buttons)
- Lightweight and pocket-sized
- Compatible with 50/50 nic salts
- USB-C charged
Top picks from our counter:
These are ideal for beginners but still deliver on flavour and performance.
✅ Nic Salt E-Liquid
To match what you loved in disposables, go for nic salts — they offer a smooth throat hit with fast-acting nicotine, just like your old favourites.
Stick with:
- 10mg or 20mg nicotine strength
- 50/50 PG/VG for pod compatibility
- Familiar flavour profiles like Blue Razz, Kiwi Passionfruit Guava, Gummy Bear, or Cherry Ice
Tip: Mejusa Bar Salt V2 is a great disposable-style juice line — made to taste just like what you’re used to.
✅ Spare Pod or Coil
Coils (the part that heats your juice) don’t last forever. Keep 1–2 spares on hand — most last 1–2 weeks.
🔌 How to Use Your New Kit (Don’t Worry, It’s Simple)
- Charge it fully before first use
- Fill the pod with your chosen nic salt
- Let it sit for 5–10 mins to prime the coil (so you don’t get a burnt hit)
- Start vaping — draw slowly, just like you would on a disposable
Give it a few puffs to settle in — flavour and performance usually peak after a pod’s had a bit of juice through it.
💷 The Savings Are Huge
Disposables used to cost about £5 each, and most people used one every 1–2 days. That adds up fast.
With refillables:
- Your device is a one-off cost (around £20–30)
- E-liquid costs £3–4 for 10ml — which lasts 2–4 days
- Coils/pods are around £2–3 every week or two
It’s not just better for the planet — it’s a no-brainer for your wallet.
👀 What About the Flavour?
One of the best parts of switching is the flavour variety. Most brands now make nic salts based on popular disposable blends — but with better consistency and smoother hits.
Brands we recommend:
- Mejusa Bar Salt V2
- Elfliq
- Bar Juice 5000
- Riot BAR EDTN
They’re specifically made to give you that strong, sweet, satisfying taste you’re used to — minus the single-use waste.
From the Counter
We get it — switching can feel intimidating. But once you’ve made the move, it’s easy, cheaper, and way more flexible. You’re not locked into one device, one flavour, or one puff count.
And we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you need help choosing your first kit, matching your old flavour, or just want to talk options — come in and chat to us. No pressure, no sales pitch — just honest advice.