Your no-stress guide to getting started — from kits and coils to clouds and confidence.
If you’ve just quit smoking (or are thinking about it), and you’re staring at a wall of vape kits wondering where to begin — don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’ve all been that confused customer at some point.
And while the vaping world might seem full of jargon, gear, and a lot of fruit flavours, it’s actually pretty straightforward once you get the basics down. This guide is for absolute beginners — no prior knowledge needed. Just a bit of curiosity, a desire to quit smoking, and maybe a few questions you’re too shy to ask (don’t be).
Let’s get you started.
🛠 What Even Is a Vape?
At its core, a vape (also called an e-cigarette) is a small device that heats e-liquid to create vapour — which you then inhale, like smoke.
It’s made up of:
- A battery (usually rechargeable)
- A coil (the heating element)
- A tank or pod (which holds the e-liquid)
- And of course, the e-liquid itself — which contains nicotine (optional), PG/VG, and flavouring
There are loads of shapes and sizes, but the most popular in 2025 are refillable pod kits — small, sleek, simple, and a lot more cost-effective than disposables (which are now banned in the UK).
🧃 What Is E-Liquid?
E-liquid (also called vape juice) is what you put in your vape to create vapour. It usually contains:
- Nicotine (optional – in strengths from 0mg to 20mg)
- PG (Propylene Glycol) – gives throat hit and carries flavour
- VG (Vegetable Glycerine) – makes vapour smooth and thick
- Flavouring – from fruit and sweets to tobacco and menthol
There are two main types:
- Nic salts – smoother hit, fast nicotine delivery (great for quitting smoking)
- Freebase – stronger throat hit, more like traditional cigarettes
If you’re not sure which to choose, nic salts in 10mg or 20mg are often a great place to start.
🔌 What Kind of Vape Kit Should You Start With?
In 2025, with disposables off the shelves, the most beginner-friendly kits are refillable pod kits.
These are small, easy to use, and let you pop in a pod, fill with juice, and go. Some popular beginner-friendly options include:
Why we recommend pod kits:
- Easy to refill
- Compact and discreet
- Great battery life
- Excellent flavour from modern coils
- Work well with nic salts (the most common e-liquid style for beginners)
💡 What Do You Actually Need to Start?
Here’s your starter shopping list:
✅ A refillable pod kit
✅ A couple of pods (some come with the kit)
✅ 1–2 bottles of e-liquid in different flavours/nic strengths
✅ USB charging cable (usually included)
✅ (Optional) A carrying case or spare coil
And that’s it! No stress. Total cost to get started is usually around £10–£20 for the device and £3–£4 per bottle of juice.
🔄 How to Vape (Yes, Really)
It might sound silly, but if you're used to smoking, vaping takes a slightly different technique:
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Don’t take super short, sharp puffs – instead, use slow, steady draws for 3–5 seconds.
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Inhale into your mouth, then your lungs (just like with smoking).
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Wait a few minutes between puffs to let the coil re-wick and your body absorb the nicotine.
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Don’t panic if you cough at first – your throat needs time to adjust. Try a lower nicotine strength if needed.
🧽 Basic Vape Care for Beginners
Looking after your kit = better flavour, longer life, fewer issues.
- Refill your pod before it runs dry (or you’ll burn the coil)
- Replace the pod or coil every 1–2 weeks, depending on use
- Wipe the pod base with tissue regularly to stop juice leaks
- Don’t leave it on charge overnight – unplug when full
Think of your vape like a phone: keep it clean, charge it right, and it’ll last you ages.
❓ Common Beginner Questions
Is vaping safer than smoking?
Public Health England has consistently stated that vaping is at least 95% less harmful than smoking. It's not harmless — but it’s a far better option if you’re looking to quit cigarettes.
Will I still get my nicotine fix?
Yes — especially if you use 10mg or 20mg nic salts. These are designed to deliver nicotine efficiently without the harsh hit of old-school liquids.
Can I vape indoors?
That depends on where you are. While there’s no legal UK ban, many public places (pubs, shops, workplaces) have their own rules. Always be respectful — and ask if unsure.
What if I don’t like fruity flavours?
There are loads of options: menthol, tobacco, dessert, coffee, soda — there’s truly something for everyone. Don’t be afraid to try a few.
Final Thoughts from the Counter
Starting vaping in 2025 might seem a bit overwhelming — especially with disposables no longer an option — but honestly? It’s never been easier to switch if you’ve got the right advice, the right kit, and a bit of patience.
If you’re standing at square one, don’t overthink it. A simple pod kit, a smooth nic salt juice, and a bit of practice is all you need to ditch cigarettes for good.
Pop into the shop if you need help picking a flavour, setting up your device, or understanding how it all works — that’s what we’re here for.