Top Tips for Vaping Beginners
The Ultimate Guide For Newbie Vapers
What’s The Difference Between Smoking And Vaping?
Smoking and vaping are very different. Yes, it may look the same, but there are fundamental differences.
Smoking Causes Cancer: This is a biggie and not one to ignore. WHO (the World Health Organisation) have classified some ingredients in tobacco cigarettes as toxic and potentially carcinogenic. Numerous studies back up these findings. Smoking causes a great number of health issues.
Vaping is 95% Less Harmful Than Tobacco Cigarettes: Public Health England, the government group responsible for the smoke-free ban, which went live in 2007, is a keen advocate for the use of e-cigarettes as an alternative to smoking. PHE has publically supported vaping, stating that it is at least 95% less harmful than smoking. They even listed e-cigarettes as a valid method of quitting smoking in their 2017 Stoptober materials.
Nicotine Intake: Both tobacco cigarettes and e-liquids (heated to produce a flavoured vapour) contain nicotine. Or do they? As far as we know, there is no such thing as a nicotine-free tobacco cigarette. There are, however, nicotine-free or zero-nicotine e-liquids. With vaping, you may choose from several nicotine strengths to customise your vape to your individual needs and to taper off and reduce your nicotine intake if wished.
Vaping Is More Affordable: Another key difference is that vaping costs significantly less than smoking over time. Yes, the start-up costs are slightly higher than buying a lighter or matching any cigarettes; however, once you’ve lit a cigarette, it’s gone. With an e-cigarette, you get used after use after use from it.
How to Use an E-Cigarette
Once you get past all the technical jargon, e-cigarettes are incredibly easy to use. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how they work.
Step 1
Start out by buying a simple starter kit. You can easily purchase these online. Your starter kit will come with a battery, USB charger and a cartridge. Then, choose your e-liquid flavour; there are literally hundreds to choose from. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, then just stick with a tobacco taste at first. You can then choose your nicotine level. You may want to opt for a higher level to get a more intense ‘kick’, but remember that certain e-liquid flavours are already pretty intense, and they might just help you achieve your ‘throat hit’ without having to increase your nicotine levels necessarily.
Step 2
Fully charge your battery. Once your device is ready to go, fill the cartridge/tank/clearomizer (it’s the same thing) with your chosen e-liquid. Click the cartridge to the mouthpiece, and… Voila! You’re ready to vape.
Step 3
There’s actually a bit of an art to vaping but it’s pretty easy to get the hang of. Some e-cigarettes and e-cig kits are activated when you inhale; others need to be activated manually. Inhale slowly and steadily. It’ll take longer to get a nicotine hit with an e-cigarette than with a tobacco cigarette, so have a bit of patience. We recommend a nic-salt liquid if you want to speed up the nicotine absorption and enjoy a s
Step 4
Refillable tanks are clear, making it easy to judge when the liquid needs topping up. The cartridge generally needs to be changed about once a month. You can also tell when it needs changing if the liquid starts to leak out, you hear gurgling noises when you inhale, or when less vapour is produced.
Tips For Vaping Beginners
Start With Beginner-Friendly Vaping Devices.
Starting with beginner-friendly vaping devices can simplify your transition and ensure a smooth experience.
Simplicity and Ease of Use.
For beginners, look for user-friendly vaping devices that don’t require intricate setups or extensive knowledge. Pod systems and all-in-one (AIO) devices are excellent options, featuring straightforward designs with minimal buttons and settings.
Compact and Portable.
Portability is another essential factor for beginners. Opt for compact and discreet vaping devices that are easy to carry around. Pod systems and AIO devices often excel, offering a compact form factor without compromising performance or battery life.
Battery Life and Charging.
Consider the device's battery life and charging options to ensure uninterrupted vaping. Look for devices with a decent battery capacity that can last throughout the day without frequent recharging. USB charging compatibility is advantageous since it allows you to conveniently charge your device using a computer, power bank, or wall adapter.
Nicotine Strength and Pod/Cartridge Options.
As a beginner, finding the right nicotine strength is essential for a satisfying vaping experience. Look for devices offering a range of nicotine options to cater to your needs. Additionally, check the availability and variety of compatible pods or cartridges. Access to a wide selection of flavours and nicotine strengths allows you to experiment and find your preferred vape.
Safety Features
Prioritise your safety by choosing devices with built-in safety features. Look for short-circuit protection, overcharge protection, and automatic cutoff timers to prevent any potential accidents or damage.
Don’t Expect Vaping To Be Smoking
We’ve already covered the fundamental differences, yet we hear from new vapers that they still thought vaping would be like smoking. It’s not, namely because it’s not the same thing. There are so many differences, not least the fact that one produces a flavoured vapour and the other smokes from burning tobacco.
It will take a little while to get into your groove, enjoy a draw rather than a drag, get used to different tastes, and so on. Some new vapers have said that the weirdest thing is that they found themselves vaping less than they smoked.
When smoking, you keep going until your cigarette is finished. With vaping, you take a draw. Be mindful that switching to vaping won’t be the same experience.
Start Slowly: Gradually Increase Your Vaping Experience
Vaping has become a popular alternative to traditional smoking, offering a variety of flavours and nicotine strengths to suit individual preferences. However, it is important for those new to vaping to approach it cautiously and start slowly. By gradually increasing your vaping experience, you can ensure a smooth transition and make informed decisions.
Venturing into the vaping world requires a cautious and gradual approach to ensure a smooth transition and informed decision-making. In this section, we will delve into crucial information that vapers should know as they embark on their vaping journey, providing them with a foundation to build upon and explore at their own pace.
Understanding the Fundamentals of Vaping
Before immersing yourself in the vaping experience, it is essential to grasp the fundamentals. Start by selecting a device that aligns with your preferences. For instance, beginner-friendly vape pens offer simplicity and ease of use, while advanced box mods provide customisation options. Take the time to research and explore various devices, weighing their features and benefits.
Nicotine Strength Considerations:
A vital aspect of vaping is determining the appropriate nicotine strength for your needs. E-liquids are available in various nicotine levels, from high to zero nicotine options. Starting with lower nicotine concentrations as a beginner ensures a comfortable experience without potential discomfort. Gradually adjusting the nicotine strength allows you to find the perfect balance that suits your preferences.
Choosing Flavorful E-Liquids:
E-liquids offer diverse flavours, opening up a world of possibilities. Experimenting with different flavours can be an exciting part of the vaping journey. However, it is crucial to opt for reputable brands and high-quality e-liquids that adhere to safety standards. Seek reviews and recommendations from fellow vapers to discover flavours that suit your taste buds and enhance your vaping experience.
Mastering Vaping Techniques:
Acquiring the proper vaping techniques is crucial for safety and enjoyment. Start by taking gentle, short puffs, allowing the vapour to linger in your mouth before inhaling. This mouth-to-lung (MTL) technique emulates the sensation of traditional smoking. As you become more comfortable, explore direct-lung (DL) vaping, which involves inhaling the vapour directly into your lungs. You can enhance flavour delivery and avoid potential discomfort by practising and refining these techniques.
Maintenance and Safety Guidelines:
Prioritise regular device maintenance and safety practices to ensure a consistently enjoyable vaping experience. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for guidance on cleaning and caring for your specific device. Additionally, always use recommended batteries, chargers, and accessories to guarantee safety. Educate yourself on battery safety measures, such as avoiding overcharging and employing proper storage methods.
Start With Lower Nicotine Levels And Adjust As Needed:
Choosing the appropriate nicotine level depends on various factors, including the individual's smoking habits and nicotine tolerance. Typically, e-cigarettes or vaping devices offer nicotine e-liquids in several strengths, ranging from high to low. Smokers should begin with a nicotine level that matches the amount they were accustomed to in traditional cigarettes. For example, heavy smokers may opt for higher nicotine concentrations, while light smokers may start with lower levels.
Once an initial nicotine strength is selected, it's essential to consider how it affects the individual. If cravings persist or severe withdrawal symptoms, a slight adjustment to a higher nicotine level may be necessary. On the other hand, if the initial strength seems too strong or causes adverse effects, gradually decreasing the nicotine concentration can be helpful.
Regular self-assessment is crucial throughout this process. Listening to the body and adjusting accordingly is essential, aiming to decrease nicotine levels over time. The goal is to eventually reach a point where nicotine dependence is significantly reduced or eliminated.
Plan Your Vaping Ahead
When smoking, you will have normally kept an eye on how many cigarettes you have in the packet to know when you need to pop in and get another packet. With vaping, you need to monitor your e-liquid levels.
Top up when needed (don’t let your tank run dry as otherwise you’ll be vaping a horrible burning taste) and ensure you always have at least one e-liquid in stock, more if you are a mid to heavy user.
Always fully charge your battery before you start the day. Carrying a spare battery is a great way to ensure you’re never caught short.
Choosing The Best E-Cigarette Starter Kit
A basic e-cigarette starter kit contains everything you need to make the transition from tobacco cigarettes to e-cigarettes; it usually contains;
● A lithium battery.
● A cartomiser/tank to contain the e-liquid of your choice.
● A USB charger.
Advanced vape kits allow you to change the voltage and enjoy your e-cigarette even when charged. Prices vary depending on the kit you choose, but for the absolute beginner wary of spending even more money on a quit-smoking aid, starter kits are available from as little as £8.99. Once you have chosen your starter kit, you must buy an e-liquid to fill your device.
Things To Consider When Choosing Your Starter Kit
When starting, you might have many questions about vaping, leaving you unsure which kit is the best for you. Here are a few points to consider, which might make the decision easier.
Firstly, always buy your e-cigarette starter kit, e-liquids, accessories, and anything else vaping-related from a reputable retailer. Not only will you be confident that what you buy is authentic, high quality and safe, but you’ll also have an expert to ask if you have any questions.
Consider the brand of your vaping starter kit. Do a little research, as there are many brands around there, and some are better known than others. Read reviews and ask for recommendations.
Consider how and when you plan to vape. If you are planning on vaping in the car a lot, for example (perhaps you drive as part of your job or spend a lot of time on the road), consider a starter kit with a car charger or a branded starter kit that allows you to buy a compatible extra charger / spare battery if necessary.
How to Choose the Right E-Liquid
Before you jump in with both feet, you also need to think about e-liquids. There are thousands of e-liquids, and most starter kits have a few to get you started. It is important to understand and recognise how the nicotine levels in e-liquids work as you might be very disappointed to buy a kit with e-liquid which is too strong or weak for your needs.
Of course, you are free to experiment with flavours and strength in addition to those in your kit; however, please bear in mind that if you inhale too high a dose of nicotine, you might find this very unpleasant and even make you feel rather unwell.
For your reference, e-liquids are available with varying strengths of nicotine:
0mg – E liquids with 0mg nicotine are nicotine-free.
3mg - 6mg - light nicotine – a lighter amount comparable to what light smokers / those smoking “light” cigarettes might have previously enjoyed.
10mg - 12mg - This is the “mid-way” strength and is usually enjoyed by people who previously smoked an “average” amount of normal-strength cigarettes daily.
18mg - 20mg – The highest strength available, normally chosen by those who regularly smoked a high amount of normal-strength cigarettes.
Once you have chosen your e-liquid, you can decide what nicotine level you require. If you have a high dependency, you need a stronger nicotine level. Slowly reduce your nicotine levels at your own pace. An e-cigarette starter kit will allow you to quit slowly and securely without suffering the unpleasant side effects of giving up.
How to Safely Charge an E-Cigarette
If your e-cigarette has a problem, it will usually happen during charging and often because it hasn’t been charged properly or safely. Lithium batteries power all e-cigarette devices, and despite their small size, they pack some wallop in the power output department and need to be taken care of.
Everyone has seen the newspaper articles, Facebook posts and new stories about exploding e-cigarettes. What is rarely reported is the fact that the majority of these instances occur because the user did not follow the safety guidelines the manufacturer of their e-cigarette had provided. They may modify their e-cig without understanding the power requirements and the need for components and battery to be compatible, or they might well not have taken notice of safety warnings and advice about charging their e-cigarette,
By taking note of and following the rules and valuable advice below, you will better understand how to keep your e-cigarette and yourself safe.
Never Leave an E-Cigarette or Lithium Battery Charging Unattended.
While popping your device on charge and going off to do something else seems reasonable and convenient, you have to remember that your device contains a powerful battery and that it shouldn’t be left to charge alone. The reason for not leaving the battery/e-cig alone when charging is that if you overcharge your e-cig, the result could be thermal runaway. It is thermal runaway that causes failure and, more often fire/explosion. You don’t need to leave your e-cigarette charging for excessive periods; indeed many charge in just three or four hours. Check the charging needs of your particular device in advance.
Staying with your e-cigarette enables you to see when it has finished charging (usually, the LED light will change colour) so that you can switch off the charger and remove the e-cigarette pretty much straight away. No risk of overcharging there! You can use a charger, such as this one, which not only detects each individual battery’s power/charging requirements, but it will also stop charging as soon as it detects that your battery is fully charged. These chargers offer a brilliant way to charge safely; however, it still isn’t advisable to leave your e-cig charging alone.
Don’t Charge Your E-Cigarette Overnight.
Your battery/device should not be left to charge unattended overnight. Not only does your battery not need to charge for that length of time, but it also needs to be attended to by someone who is awake!
If you are asleep while charging, even with a charger which will switch off when the battery is full, you won’t see if something goes wrong during charging, and while this is rare it is not unheard of. You need to be aware of what your battery is doing during charging. If it starts to get over-hot or swell up, the charge needs to be cut off immediately. If you notice this happening, move the unplugged charger somewhere safe to cool down. If this doesn’t happen, you will see an explosive reaction and not a tiny one!
Despite being small, these batteries are powerful, and if they are overcharged or have a fault and continue to charge, this charge will tip them over the edge. Again, while rare, it can happen, and you won’t notice the warning signs if you are charging while asleep!
Treat Your E-Cigarette with Care.
While most designs are fairly self-contained, using a pouch or a case to carry your e-cigarette around in or ensuring it is somewhere clean, free of dust, and won’t bang against anything (e.g., in your bag) will greatly reduce the risk of damaging the casing and any of the components, the battery included.
Be aware of where you keep your e-cigarette when in use / during the day. As you would with your mobile phone, don’t allow your e-cigarette to get too hot (i.e. leaving it in a hot car or direct sunlight/near a radiator) or too cold. Obviously, avoiding naked flames/anything flammable would be a good idea, too!
Charge in a Safe Place
You wouldn’t (hopefully) leave your e-cigarette on your desk during the day in direct, hot sunshine. Make sure you choose to place your charger somewhere safe, too. Similarly, your battery shouldn’t be charged somewhere too cold. When stored or charged in somewhere below zero degrees (in the garage, an outhouse, utility room, cold car, etc), the battery may fail as the anode (positively charged electrode) that is non-lithium becomes layered up with lithium within the battery and simply won’t work. This type of failure can’t be fixed or reversed, so the battery needs to be discarded.
Ensure that when charging your e-cigarette, your charger is placed on a suitable flat surface that is away from children and animals. You might be surprised how many chargers, devices, and batteries get knocked to the ground and damaged (you should NEVER charge or try to use a damaged lithium battery) this way.
Ensure That You Are Using the Correct Charger
Always use the charger that your device came with, and if you can’t, ensure that what you do use is a compatible replacement (many people wisely choose to purchase the same charger again from the manufacturer of their e-cigarette or contact them to check that what they want to buy instead is safe).
While there are some chargers out that boast the ability to charge a number of different models, it is always best to stick with a charger you are sure is compatible. Thankfully, many chargers match their threads to a specific model, which means that they won’t fit other types of e-cigarettes, but as not all do, you need to be especially vigilant. If buying a replacement e-cigarette battery charger, do so from a reputable retailer and don’t hesitate to contact them to check compatibility with your device. Any retailer worth their salt will be happy to help with this.
If you look after your device, follow manufacturer guidelines, and are aware of and abide by these safe battery charging rules, the risk of battery problems is significantly reduced.
Help! My E-Cigarette Tastes Burnt
A burnt taste is not normal and, thankfully, can be fairly easily avoided. There are a number of causes of burnt taste when vaping. Here are the main ones and instructions on how to avoid burning.
First up, we have to impress upon you how nasty the burnt taste when vaping really is. Imagine burnt toast plus that awful smell/taste you get when you burn a panhandle and amplify these. This is not something you want to be inhaling. That’s a taste that lingers. The burnt taste isn’t something that should worry you risk-wise, though. Pure unpleasantness is the result of not following these vaping top tips.
That Nasty Dry Hit
The most common cause of the burnt taste is an easy one to avoid. The burnt taste comes from a burnt wick found inside the atomizer coil. The way this mechanism works is that the wick soaks up your favourite flavoured e-liquid directly from the tank. This is then heated thanks to a powerful lithium battery and turned into the vapour you inhale and exhale. If the wick is not completely covered/saturated or is allowed to run dry, you experience what is commonly referred to as a dry hit. We call it blooming awful.
To avoid a dry hit, simply ensure that your tank doesn’t run dry or too low, and give your wick a few extra seconds to soak up that delicious flavoured e-juice before you start vaping.
Avoid A Burnt Coil
Coils are vaping consumables. This means that eventually they will need to be replaced. How often coils last depends on the type you use, how you vape, what you do when you vape (I.e. do you take lots of quick puffs at a high temp?) and your preferences. Some vapers change their coils weekly, some bi-weekly, some wait a little longer. Once burned there is nothing you can do to get rid of that burnt taste so don’t waste energy on that. The only way forward is to just replace the coil, clean the tank and remember to replace before burn out occurs in future.
We look at the main two causes of coil burnout in more detail below.
Chain Vaping Causes Coil Burnout
Chain vaping, i.e taking lots of draws in quick succession not only uses up your e liquid quicker, it boosts the risk of your tank running dry faster (you use more e liquid) and shortens the life span of your coil. Try and resist this practice as it is pretty much guaranteed to lead to that telltale burnt taste when vaping eventually. Take longer draws, savouring the taste of the vapour and fewer drawers overall to get the most out of your vape. If you aren’t finding this to work it may be that you would benefit from a higher nicotine strength in your eliquids or perhaps one with more PG which offers a firmer throat hit.
Lack Of Coil Priming Responsible For Burnt Taste
Patience is a virtue and when it comes to waiting for your coil to prime this patience pays off. It is worth the few extra seconds or so to avoid a mouthful of burnt tasting yuckiness. In order to prime your new coil you basically just allow the wick to be completely covered in e liquid and then give it the few seconds necessary to allow the wick to become full saturated. This avoids wick burning and overall coil burnout. You also get the best out of your e liquid flavouring when you wait a minute so we’d say just hold your horses for a minute and wait it out.
It is easy (now) to see how this awful yet completely avoidable burnt taste occurs. All you need to do is follow these tips: maintain your e-cigarette properly, be vigilant about your e-liquid levels, and be patient about priming your coil. These tips offer simple and effective advice on how to enjoy a non-crispy vapour filled with delicious flavour rather than something less enjoyable.
Proper Inhalation Techniques: Mouth-To-Lung Vs. Direct-To-Lung
Two primary methods commonly used by vapers are mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung (DTL) inhalation. Understanding these techniques and their differences is vital for beginners and experienced vapers. This section will explore the nuances of MTL and DTL inhalation, their contrasting characteristics, and other essential information to enhance your vaping journey.
Mouth-to-Lung Inhalation (MTL):
MTL inhalation mimics the experience of smoking traditional cigarettes. To perform MTL, draw the vapour into your mouth first, allowing it to linger briefly before inhaling it into your lungs. This technique requires a slower and gentler pull, resulting in a higher resistance draw. MTL offers a tighter airflow, creating a sensation similar to a cigarette's. It is ideal for vapers seeking a more discrete vaping experience, higher nicotine absorption, and a throat hit closely resembling smoking.
Direct-to-Lung Inhalation (DTL):
DTL inhalation, also known as lung inhale or sub-ohm vaping, is favoured by cloud chasers and experienced vapers. With DTL, inhale the vapour directly into your lungs without holding it in your mouth. This technique involves a deeper and faster draw, using devices with larger airflow and lower resistance coils. DTL provides a significantly airier and more intense vapour production, often accompanied by enhanced flavour notes. It is preferred by vapers who enjoy sub-ohm vaping, intense lung hits, and larger vapour clouds.
Differences Between MTL And DTL Inhalation:
Airflow and Resistance: MTL inhalation typically utilises devices with restricted airflow and higher resistance coils, whereas DTL inhalation employs devices with wide-open airflow and lower resistance coils.
Vapour Production: MTL inhalation produces less vapour than DTL inhalation, known for its voluminous clouds.
Nicotine Absorption: MTL inhalation offers higher nicotine absorption due to the extended time the vapour stays in the mouth, whereas DTL inhalation provides lower nicotine absorption but more immediate effects.
Throat Hit: MTL inhalation provides a stronger throat hit, similar to smoking, whereas DTL inhalation tends to offer a smoother, less pronounced throat hit.
Important Considerations:
Device and Coil Selection: Choosing the right device and coil is crucial for achieving the desired inhalation technique. MTL is better suited for devices with higher resistance coils, while DTL requires lower resistance coils and devices with larger airflow.
E-Liquid Selection: The choice of e-liquid also impacts the inhalation technique. Higher nicotine strength and PG (propylene glycol) content e-liquids are preferred for MTL. In comparison, lower nicotine strength and higher VG (vegetable glycerin) content e-liquids are commonly used for DTL.
Look After Your Battery: This is advice for new vapers that should be addressed. Know how to handle your battery to ensure you use your e-cigarette properly. E-cigarettes are powered by lithium batteries, similar to mobile phones.
Therefore, you must adhere to battery safety instructions, don’t use a battery when it has been damaged, don’t overcharge it, and ensure that you use the right battery strength for your device.
Your device instructions should explain this in detail. If you are buying a replacement battery and aren’t sure whether the one you have in mind is the right one, feel free to message us, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Don’t Be Afraid To Experiment: Most new vapers start with a basic starter kit or a vape pen-style e-cigarette. There’s nothing wrong with that. Some vapers stick with their starter kit or buy a new one, and if that works for them, we say go for it.
If you want to get the most out of your vaping experience, however, don’t be afraid to try new e-liquid flavours, i.e. you don’t need to stick with tobacco flavours purely because you were a smoker, and you don’t need to stick with one type of e-cigarette device.
Part of the wonder of vaping is the variety it offers and the ability you possess to customise your vaping experience to make the most of it. Be brave!
Experimenting With Different E-Liquids And Finding Your Favorites
The world of e-liquid offers many options, from traditional tobacco and menthol to fruity delights and decadent desserts. However, finding an e-liquid flavour that works for you requires some experimentation and exploration.
The journey to discovering your favourite e-liquid flavour begins with an open mind and a willingness to try new things. Start by exploring different categories of flavours, such as fruits, desserts, beverages, or even unique blends that combine multiple taste profiles. Consider your personal preferences and what flavours you enjoy in other contexts. For instance, a fruity e-liquid might be a good place to start if you're a fan of fresh berries.
When experimenting with different flavours, it's important to consider the nuances of each e-liquid. Pay attention to the flavour profile, intensity, and overall vaping experience it provides. Some e-liquids may have a bold and vibrant taste, while others might be more subtle and layered. Take note of the throat hit, vapour production, and the aftertaste. This comprehensive evaluation will help determine whether a particular flavour suits your preferences.
It may take time to find your favourite e-liquid flavour. Embrace the journey and enjoy the exploration. You'll better understand your preferences and refine your vaping experience.
Vaping - Maintenance Is Key
Maintaining your car costs you less in surprise repair bills when you least expect them, and your car lasts longer. The same applies to your e-cigarette. Follow the maintenance instructions that come with your e-cigarettes and read the maintenance-related blog posts on the site to create a maintenance schedule that sees you periodically clean your tank. If you look after your device, it’ll look after you.
There are so many vaping for beginners articles out there. However, we wanted to keep this fresh and stick to the most important points. If you have any questions about vaping, search the blog first and then feel free to contact us if you have any product or maintenance enquiries we may help with. Here’s to enjoying vaping to the fullest!
Top Tips For Pro Vapers
Don’t Buy Fake E-Liquids: This is the best piece of advice that we can offer. Bulk buying no-label e-liquid from abroad or on an auction site is unlikely to result in a good vape. These are rubbish quality, could be mixed with all sorts of rubbish and are illegal. They won’t hold up to quality standards or adhere to TPD regulations.
We understand that you want to get the most out of your money when buying e-liquid. We offer high-quality, affordable e-liquids, some bundles, and special offers that are regularly updated.
Understand The PG And VG Differences: This tip is an article all of its own. E-liquid bases usually comprise a propylene glycol or vegetable glycerine mixture. What makes all the difference is the ratio. High VG e-liquids tend to be great for those chasing big vape clouds, and PG is better known for offering a throat hit more like tobacco cigarettes, which may ease the way for smokers who have switched over.
Be Prepared: It doesn’t matter whether you were in the scouts or not as a child. When you vape, you need to be prepared. With smoking, you can pop into the local shop and grab a packet of cigarettes when required (convenient but still incredibly harmful to health). Vaping takes more prep and some planning, but it is worth it.
Be prepared by ensuring you have a safe/decent way to carry your vaping supplies when away from home. Don’t have vials of e-liquid and spare batteries jingling about in your bag or pocket, and it won’t end well.
Remember to monitor your e-liquid stock. If you vape one or a few flavours regularly, you must ensure that you order more before running out to avoid delay and disappointment.
Also, if you travel a lot, make sure you have an in-car charger for on-the-go power-ups. Invest in a second battery for your device so you always have one charged up and ready to go when the one you are using runs out. It’s just good common sense and planning.
Steeping: Many advanced vapers do steeping, and they have found it to boost flavours, making them stronger or richer. This works particularly well for those e-liquids you’ve found weaker than you may have liked or a little stale tasting.
Duplicate Tanks: It may be worth investing in an additional tank if you regularly vape more than one flavour consistently. This is particularly useful if the flavours you vape are particularly strong as it avoids your tank being tainted by one flavour, otherwise known as ghosting. Switching tanks for regular flavours also reduces maintenance/washing out on top of your usual maintenance routine.
Be Travel Aware: Vaping has become increasingly popular worldwide, especially as more and more evidence has come to light supporting it (as Public Health England does) as being at LEAST 95% less harmful than tobacco cigarettes.
That said, not all countries are as open to e-cigarettes and vaping and, therefore, may have vaping bans in place, whether in public or at all. Similarly, if travelling abroad, ensure you speak to your airline about the best way to pack your vaping supplies to avoid getting into trouble at security and having to repack.
With vaping being so well known and commonly seen, it is rarely a problem; however, be aware of what you may travel with and how items must be contained.
Mix Your Flavours Up: Some of you may have heard of Vaper’s Tongue. This isn’t anything to worry about. It refers to not tasting a flavour as pungently as before because you’ve vaped it so much. Some say it occurs because your taste buds have become too used to a flavour to get excited by it anymore. Drinking plenty of water and taking a short break from that flavour should help you return on the right track.
Battery Build-Ups: You will already be well-versed in basic battery care. Is it essential to check your device battery connections for e-liquid build-ups? Dealing with this is easy enough. Unscrew your e-cigarette per manufacturer instructions, check visually, and gently wipe (gently) with a non-abrasive cloth or cotton bud. Ensure the threads are clean, and then reconnect your device correctly.
How to Get Better Flavours When Vaping
E Liquids are not created equally. Two brands might have similar ingredients and yet be very different. Why is that?
The truth is, it comes down to quality. We can throw cheap and cheerful ingredients with flavourings and produce an e-liquid. It wouldn’t be a particularly good e-liquid, but it would be one. We could buy from a reputable retailer that uses the highest pharmaceutical-grade ingredients, cutting-edge production processes and expertly skilled flavour mixologists instead. Which e-liquid is going to satisfy your need for a quality vape?
Choose brands you can trust to offer you quality e-juice.
Choose PG E Liquids
Your e-liquid base is usually made up of a VG/PG mix (usually). Some favour high VG e liquids; we must admit they pack a punch in the vape cloud department. However, VG e-liquids often carry an ever-so-slight sweet undertone with them, which must affect how your e-liquid tastes, even if only a little.
VG also doesn’t carry flavour quite as well as PG. Experiment a little, as you don’t have to choose a straight-up PG base, but more PG and less VG could make quite a difference.
Alter Your Temperature And Wattage Setting
Once you’ve moved past the basic plug-and-play e-cigarette starter kit, you may choose something that offers a more customisable vape, allowing you to adjust the wattage and temperature it’s operating at. This is important because when using an e-liquid with various flavour strands. So on, often different “parts” of the e-liquid and the flavourings are activated at different temperatures. Experimenting with your settings lets you get the best of whatever e-liquid you load up.
Start with a lower wattage/temperature and gradually increase until you find the sweet spot you want.
Restrict Airflow
Everything you’ve read before will likely have told you to open up the adjustable airflow on your e-cigarette, as this offers you better vape clouds. As fabulous as a flavoursome big vape cloud is, it might not be what you’re looking for.
If maximising flavour enjoyment is the top priority, closing off the airflow would be the better approach. This works well because it produces a warmer, thicker vapour and enhanced flavour.
A word of caution, though: don’t be tempted to close it off completely; otherwise, you’ll potentially move further from your goal and end up with a harsh, not-so-wonderful-tasting vape. Experiment a little!
Pros And Cons Of Vaping
There are still some people who are sceptical about vaping, and in order to help this process along, we’ve put together the pros and cons of vaping to offer a balanced viewpoint of the popular alternative to smoking.
The Pros Of Vaping
It’s Better For You Than Smoking
As previously mentioned, vaping is being hailed as being significantly less harmful than tobacco cigarettes. The review PHE (the government group responsible for the health and harm reduction of everyone) released in May last year made it very clear that if the choice was between tobacco cigarette smoking and vaping with an e-cigarette, smokers should switch over to vaping as soon as possible.
WHO, the World Health Organisation, has long-since maintained their stance about the harmful chemicals and toxins in tobacco cigarettes, linking them to numerous illness, diseases and chronic health complaints, cancer and premature death.
WHO and PHE are not the only voices advocating for vaping either with many health professionals including the Royal College of Physicians, scientists, charities, MPs and more all supporting vaping and even pushing the UK Government to review vaping as an official cessation method, making it possible for GPs to prescribe vaping as part of their stop smoking services in order to continue the downward drop of smoking numbers. It is no coincidence that smoking rates have dropped alongside vaping numbers that have risen, although vaping can’t claim all the credit for this.
This is just the tip of the iceberg, but it can hopefully show you that when it comes to the pros and cons of vaping, the health benefits offer a fairly substantial positive edge!
Passive Smoking
Did you know that passive smoking, i.e. a non-smoker breathing in the tobacco smoke of a cigarette can actually be just as harmful to the non-smoker as it is to the person smoking the-cigarette? Much research into passive smoking and its dangers has been undertaken over the years. The results of this research is partly what led to Public Health England spearheading the Go Smoke Free legislation of 2007 which saw smoking bans in public areas and on public transport go live in England.
On the flipside, much research has also been done into the dangers of passive vaping and independently funded and unbiased research studies have found there to be no risk to those who passively breathe in the vapour produced by heating up a flavoured e liquid. From this point of view, the passive smoking issue is most definitely something to consider when looking at the pros and cons of vaping. So sure of the danger of passive smoking by tobacco cigarettes, the UK Government has now made it illegal to smoke tobacco cigarettes in a car with a minor. That tells a story!
Of course, as an aside, e-liquid vapour from an e-cigarette smells significantly nicer than the burnt smell of tobacco and assorted other tobacco cigarette ingredients. This is a small “pro,” but it is worth a mention all the same.
Controlled Nicotine Intake
Nicotine is a big issue for some people as while much research shows that it is not quite the dangerous chemical it is considered to be by some, it is most certainly an ingredient in tobacco cigarettes which has addictive properties. This means that when you smoke you may well find it hard to quit partly because of the strong cravings your body has when in nicotine withdrawal.
Isn’t this just a case of switching from one nicotine containing product to another then? No it isn’t. When it comes to vaping you have the option to chose from a number of nicotine strengths so can gradually withdraw the nicotine in your system all the way down to zero if preferred. This means that you could potentially rid yourself of nicotine if this is something that is important to you while continuing to enjoy your vaping hobby using zero nicotine e liquids. This kind of control over nicotine is another point that is important to many and therefore needs to be mentioned when considering the pros and cons of vaping.
All The Flavours
The fact that there are so many flavours to choose from when it comes to vaping has to be considered a positive point. If, having switched over to vaping from tobacco smoking you want to continue to enjoy a tobacco flavour, there’s an e liquid for that. If however you fancy casting your net further in order to enjoy something different you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the flavoured e liquids you may choose from. Consider sweet e liquids, drink-flavoured e liquids, tobacco e liquids, menthol e liquids, fruity e liquids and so many more.
The Costs
With a pack of 20 tobacco cigarettes costing around £15 now, it is easy to see how vaping could be the cheaper option. A basic vaping starter kit starts from around £10 - £15 and has everything you need to get started. E liquids start from 99p and last a lot longer than a cigarette.
Vaping Is More Accepted Outdoors
While you might not care what others think about smoking or vaping, the fact remains that tobacco has a bad reputation these days. The proof confirming how bad smoking tobacco cigarettes are, mixed with the Go Smoke Free ban of 2007 has made it harder than ever to smoke publicly.
Vaping on the other hand is not governed under the Go Smoke Free legislation and therefore is not banned like smoking is. True, it is up to individual property owners to decide whether vaping is allowing on their premises but this difference alone makes vaping the much more socially acceptable option and one that is easier to access when outside of your home.
These are just some of the benefits of vaping over smoking. This wouldn’t be a pros and cons of vaping however if we didn’t have a look at what may be considered somewhat negative points.
The Cons Of Vaping
There’s So Much To Choose From
Most people might find the fact that there is so much variety when it comes to vaping a plus point. It is understandable however to see how for some people all of this choice could be somewhat overwhelming. Health dangers aside, with tobacco smoking you could choose a brand then choose between a lighter and a pack of matches in order to light the-cigarette. With vaping there is more to take into consideration. There are many different e liquid flavours available, from drink flavours to tropical tastes and pretty much everything in between. You can choose from high VG e liquids and e liquids that have more PG in it, different nicotine strengths, device types and more. We can see how that can seem a lot.
Yes, these overwhelming options can be a little in your face if you are completely new to vaping but it is important to remember that if you have the option to choose, you have the option to choose to keep it all very simple, if that’s what you really want.
All The Jargon
There are a lot of new terms to get used to with vaping and that in itself can seem like a pain to start with! Vape, vaping, vaper, an e-cigarette or e cig. E liquids and e juices are the same thing, a drag is now a draw and don’t get us started on the technical terms that come with more advanced vaping. Needless to say, it can seem like a steep learning curve which is why so many new vapers opt for a starter kit which offers a simple plug and play type of option.
The Cost Of Vaping
If you are someone who smokes lightly or who assumes that vaping is going to be extremely costly, what with all of the options available, it is easy to see how many might be concerned about the overall cost of vaping money-wise. A starter kit is certainly more expensive than a packet of cigarettes; however, it will last significantly longer. Take the time to do your own analysis of whether vaping will be cheaper for you. Most vapers claim it to be significantly less expensive; however, you need to look at how you would be likely to vape, i.e. would you buy a lot of e-liquids all at once? Do your sums when it comes to deciding on the pros and cons of vaping associated with long-term vaping costs vs long-term smoking costs.
Vapers Are Treated Like Smokers
Cigarette smoking certainly has a social stigma attached to it and many still consider smoking an vaping to be the same thing. This is frustrating for the vaping community, not to mention those who work hard to end the stigma because they are looking to improve access to vaping, seeing it as the healthier choice between the two hobbies. This is not something that will be “fixed” overnight. More and more data is being released every day, Public Health England and many supporters are lobbying the government to try and make e-cigarettes official medical devices for the use of helping people give up.
Start Your Vaping Journey at Go Smoke Free
As a vaping beginner, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer amount of products available to buy. At Go Smoke Free, we’re here to make the process simple, with everything you need to start your journey. From disposable vapes, ideal for testing out different flavours and brands, to basic vape starter kits and e-liquids, you can find the best products from leading vape brands - all at exceptional prices. Shop today or get in touch with a member of the team for more help and advice.