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Beginner’s Guide to Vaping (2025)

Beginner’s Guide to Vaping (2025)

How to Start Vaping the Right Way

Vaping has grown rapidly in popularity across the UK as more smokers look for a cleaner alternative to cigarettes. With so many types of vape kits and e-liquids available, getting started can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.

At The E-Cig Store, we’ve helped thousands of smokers successfully make the switch. This complete beginner’s guide to vaping will walk you through everything you need to know — from choosing your first vape kit to understanding nicotine strengths and avoiding common beginner mistakes.

Why Start Vaping?

If you’re currently a smoker, vaping offers a far less harmful alternative. Studies commissioned by the UK Government’s Office for Health Improvement & Disparities have found that vaping poses only a fraction of the health risks associated with smoking.

“In the short and medium term, vaping poses a small fraction of the risks of smoking.”
— Nicotine Vaping in England: 2022 Evidence Update, OHID

Vaping mimics the physical act of smoking, which makes it one of the most effective ways to transition away from cigarettes — without the tar, ash, or lingering odour.

How Vaping Works

All vape kits operate on the same principle: an e-liquid (also called vape juice) is heated by a coil to produce vapour, which the user inhales.

Modern vape kits are simple to use, easy to maintain, and available in different styles depending on your preference for convenience, vapour production, and flavour intensity.

Types of Vape Kits Explained

There’s no single “best” vape kit — the right choice depends on your lifestyle and experience level. Below are the main options available today.

1. Prefilled Vape Kits (Disposable Replacements)

With the UK ban on single-use disposables, prefilled vape kits are now the go-to choice for new vapers.
These compact devices use pre-filled e-liquid pods that can be replaced once empty — offering the same convenience as disposables, but in a reusable, eco-friendly format.

  • Simple, draw-activated designs — no buttons or menus.

  • Pods are available in many popular flavours, including bar-style blends.

  • Lower long-term cost and reduced waste.

Explore our prefilled vape kits to find your perfect first device.

2. Pod Kits

Pod systems are small, sleek, and designed for everyday use. They use refillable pods that you top up with your chosen e-liquid.

  • Easy to use and discreet — great for beginners.

  • Compatible with nicotine salt e-liquids for a smooth inhale.

  • Quick pod replacements with minimal maintenance.

Browse our pod kits collection.

3. Refillable Vape Kits

Refillable vape kits give you complete control over your vaping experience. You can choose any e-liquid flavour, nicotine strength, and VG/PG blend that suits your style.

  • Great battery life and vapour production.

  • Ideal for users who want flexibility and value for money.

  • Compatible with standard and nic salt e-liquids.

Discover our refillable vape kits.

4. Sub-Ohm Vape Kits (Advanced)

These kits are designed for experienced vapers who enjoy large vapour clouds and intense flavour. They use low-resistance coils and higher power output.

  • Best paired with high VG e-liquids.

  • Provide a smooth direct-to-lung inhale.

  • Require some knowledge of coil changes and maintenance.

Explore sub-ohm vape kits.

Understanding E-Liquids

E-liquids (or vape juices) are the heart of your vape kit — available in a wide range of flavours, nicotine strengths, and VG/PG ratios.

Flavours

There’s something for every taste — from classic tobacco and menthol to fruity, dessert, and bar-style flavours.

Try our bestselling Feast Treats 100ml E-Liquids or the Feast Treats Bar Salts for premium flavour at great value.

Nicotine Strengths

Choosing the right nicotine level is key:

  • 20 mg Nic Salts — Best for heavy smokers.

  • 10 mg Nic Salts — Suitable for light to moderate smokers.

  • 0 mg — For those who’ve already reduced nicotine intake.

Explore our full range of nicotine salt e-liquids or standard e-liquids.

VG/PG Ratios

  • High VG (Vegetable Glycerin): Smooth vapour, bigger clouds — ideal for sub-ohm vaping.

  • High PG (Propylene Glycol): Sharper throat hit and stronger flavour — great for mouth-to-lung kits.

Tips for First-Time Vapers

  • Start with a refilled or refillable pod kit — simple, mess-free, and cost-effective.

  • Match your nicotine strength to your previous smoking habit.

  • Drink water regularly to prevent dryness.

  • Don’t overuse your vape — take breaks between puffs.

  • Buy only from reputable UK retailers like The E-Cig Store for safety and compliance.

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Choosing an advanced device that’s too complicated.

  • Picking the wrong nicotine strength — leaving cravings unsatisfied.

  • Forgetting to replace pods or coils, causing burnt taste.

  • Sticking to only one flavour (explore — that’s half the fun!).

Avoiding these mistakes makes the transition from smoking to vaping far smoother.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are disposable vapes banned in the UK?
Yes. From 1st June 2025, disposable vapes were banned across the UK. Refillable and refilled pod systems are now the best legal alternatives.

Q: Is vaping cheaper than smoking?
Absolutely. While the starter kit may cost more upfront, refill pods or e-liquids are significantly cheaper than cigarettes over time.

Q: Can vaping help me quit smoking?
Yes — vaping is one of the most effective stop-smoking tools in the UK. Gradually reduce nicotine levels to transition completely.

Q: What vape kit should I start with?
Most beginners start with a refilled pod kit or starter vape kit for simplicity and ease of use.

Final Thoughts — Start Your Journey Confidently

Switching to vaping is a positive step toward a smoke-free lifestyle. Start simple, learn what works for you, and explore your favourite flavours along the way.

At The E-Cig Store, we’re here to support you every step of the journey.
Discover our full range of Starter Vape Kits and find your perfect match today.

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MTL vs DTL Vaping: What They Are and How to Choose What Suits You

MTL vs DTL Vaping: What They Are and How to Choose What Suits You

The are so many vaping options available at the moment, which can become overwhelming and make it difficult to decide which vape is best for you.  If you’ve ever heard about MTL or DTL but don’t know what they mean and what the difference is between them, we explain it in this blog. We cover how each vaping style works, its pros and cons and how to decide which one is best for you.  MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) and DTL (Direct-to-Lung) are two different vaping styles. Understanding the difference will help you pick the right vape kit, coils, and e-liquids for you. What Is MTL Vaping?  MTL stands for Mouth-to-Lung vaping. With this vaping style, you draw vapour into your mouth first, pause briefly, then inhale it into your lungs. It’s the same method people use when smoking a cigarette.  Who Uses MTL? MTL vaping is one of the most popular ways to vape, especially for beginners or individuals who used to smoke. MTL gives throat hit without producing large clouds, and it also gives you more control. Best E-Liquid, Nicotine and PG/VG Ratios for MTL MTL kits work best with 50/50 e-liquids or nicotine salts. A higher PG level increases the flavour and gives a stronger throat hit. Most MTL devices work best with 12 mg and 20 mg nicotine strengths. Another reason why people choose MTL setups is that they use less e-liquid, which makes them cheaper for people who vape daily. Pros and Cons of MTL Pros: Gives you a similar feel to smoking If you are someone who wants to quit smoking or is transitioning from smoking to vaping, this is the best vaping method. Because it’s so similar to smoking cigarettes, it makes the process easier. Uses less e-liquid For people who like to vape daily and use a lot of vape juice, this is a huge advantage, as MTL is significantly cheaper because the vaporisation rate is slower. This way, your juice bottles last longer. Gives a stronger flavour  Because MTL vaping keeps the vapour in your mouth for several seconds, your taste buds get more time to pick up the flavour. Works well with higher nicotine levels Since MTL vaping pairs well with nicotine salts, it gives you a higher nicotine strength, even if there’s a smaller amount of vapour. Smaller and more discreet vapour clouds The vape clouds created by MTL devices are much smaller and lighter. This is an advantage for people who often vape in public or want to be considerate of others. Even if the vapours are smaller, because of the high nicotine levels, you still get a strong throat hit. Cons: Smaller vapours On the other side, for people who like dense vape clouds and enjoy blowing them because of how cool they look, MTL might not be the right choice. Less powerful hit compared to DTL MTL vaping gives a softer and more controlled inhale. You can still get a good throat hit, especially if you decide to have a higher nicotine strength, but some people believe that MTL vaping is weaker than DTL. What Is DTL Vaping? DTL stands for Direct-to-Lung. With DTL, you inhale vapour straight into your lungs in one slow and continuous breath, without holding it in your mouth.  Who Uses DTL DTL vaping is used by experienced vapers who enjoy getting large clouds and like a more intense experience.  Best E-Liquid, Nicotine and PG/VG Ratios for DTL DTL kits have a better performance with high-VG e-liquids (70VG/30PG or higher). VG produces thicker clouds and smoother vapour. To prevent harsh throat hits, it’s best to keep the nicotine levels low (3 mg to 6 mg). DTL vaping uses more e-liquid, which makes you have to refill your tank more regularly. You can find good options in your high VG e-liquids and shortfill e-liquid categories. You can also add low-strength nicotine with nicotine shots. Airflow, Coils and Device Specs DTL vaping needs open airflow and sub-ohm coils (below 1.0 ohm). The best devices for DTL are sub-ohm vape kits, box mods, and tanks with adjustable wattage, which give more control and intensity. Pros and Cons of DTL Pros: Creates denser and bigger vapour clouds One of the main reasons why people like DTL, it’s because it creates big and thick clouds, which creates a nice vaping experience and looks impressive.  Stronger flavour DTL devices can provide a stronger flavour because of the larger amount of vapour and airflow. Customisable settings Cons: Uses more e-liquid Contrary to MTL devices, DTL vaping uses more e-liquid and can become more expensive in the long term. People often mention that their e-liquid bottles don’t last as long and need to be refilled more frequently. Requires more battery power DTL vaping requires higher wattage, which can drain your battery quicker. Since these devices use more powerful coils to get larger clouds, you might have to recharge your battery more often. Not suitable for high nicotine levels DTL vaping can feel a bit harsher, and since it works best with low-nicotine e-liquids, if you use high-nicotine juice, it can be too overwhelming. DTL setups are more about flavour and cloud production than nicotine strength. Needs coil maintenance For DTL devices, there is a higher chance of the coils burning prematurely, so you have to constantly check the e-liquid level and refill it on time. How to Choose The Best Vaping Style For You To pick the right vaping style for you, think about: Your Vaping Experience Level Your Nicotine Needs The Flavour Strength and Amount of Clouds You Want to Create Your Budget and E-Liquid Costs How Easy It Is to Use The Flexibility the Device Gives You MTL vs DTL FAQs Can I change between MTL and DTL? Yes, you can, but not all devices allow it. Some vapers switch between MTL and DTL so they can experience both vaping styles, but in order to do so, you’d have to change your coil, airflow, and e-liquid type. There are some hybrid devices that let you adjust the settings easily. Is it better to vape in your mouth or lungs? It depends on your vaping style and preferences. MTL (mouth-to-lung) is more similar to smoking and has a stronger throat hit, but DTL (direct-to-lung) makes bigger clouds and has a smoother inhale. Is MTL or DTL better for throat hit? MTL vaping gives a stronger throat hit because it uses higher nicotine levels. DTL vaping feels smoother and softer as it focuses more on flavour and cloud production rather than throat sensation. Is direct-to-lung vaping worse? Not necessarily, it’s just a different vaping style. Direct-to-Lung vaping isn’t worse, but it uses more e-liquid and makes bigger clouds, which can feel a bit intense if you’re used to MTL or higher levels of nicotine.  

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PG vs VG: A Guide to E-Liquid Ratios

PG vs VG: A Guide to E-Liquid Ratios

If you’re new to vaping, one of the first things you’ll notice when looking for e-liquids is that they often list something called VG and PG. You might be thinking: What are VG and PG? What do these terms mean, and why do they matter when choosing your vape juice? In this blog, we’ll break down the PG and VG meaning, explain the difference between PG and VG, and help you decide which blend is right for you. By the end, you’ll know how these two ingredients affect your vaping experience. PG and VG Meaning Let’s start with the basics. PG stands for Propylene Glycol, and VG stands for Vegetable Glycerin. These are the two main base ingredients used in almost every vape juice. They make up the bulk of the liquid, with flavourings and (if chosen) nicotine added on top. PG and VG behave differently when heated and vaped, which is why you’ll see e-liquids described as having different PG/VG ratios. What is PG? Propylene Glycol (PG) is a thin, colourless liquid with no odour. It has a slightly sweet taste, though this is usually masked by flavourings in vape juice. PG is widely used outside of vaping, too. When it comes to vaping, PG is responsible for: Carrying flavour – PG is great at absorbing and providing flavour, which means e-liquids with higher PG often taste stronger. Throat hit – PG provides the familiar “kick” at the back of your throat that mimics the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. Thinner consistency – Because PG is runnier, it wicks more easily into the cotton inside vape coils, especially in smaller devices like pod kits. What is VG? Vegetable Glycerin (VG) is a thicker, naturally sweet liquid derived from vegetable oils.  In vaping, VG is used for: Cloud production – High VG e-liquids create bigger, denser clouds, which is why they’re popular among sub-ohm vapers. Smoother inhale – VG reduces throat hit, making the vape feel smoother and less harsh. Thicker consistency – Because VG is heavier, it works best in more powerful vape kits with larger coils designed for thicker liquids. Difference Between PG and VG Now that we’ve covered what each liquid does, let’s look at the difference between PG and VG side by side: Feature PG (Propylene Glycol) VG (Vegetable Glycerin) Consistency Thin, runny Thick, syrupy Flavour strength Stronger flavour delivery Milder flavour Throat hit Strong, cigarette-like Smooth, gentle Clouds Smaller clouds Bigger clouds Best for Mouth-to-lung vaping, starter kits, smokers switching to vaping Direct-to-lung vaping, sub-ohm kits, cloud chasers The balance of PG and VG affects how your vape tastes, feels, and performs. Common PG/VG Ratios Explained Most vape juices aren’t 100% PG or VG – instead, they’re blended in different ratios. Here are the most common ones: 50/50 E-Liquids Equal parts PG and VG. Great for beginners, as they offer a balance of flavour, throat hit, and vapour. Designed for use with smaller kits and pod systems. High VG (e.g., 70/30 VG/PG) More VG than PG, meaning thicker clouds and a smoother inhale. Perfect for sub-ohm kits and more advanced devices. Requires coils with larger wicking holes to handle the thicker liquid. Choosing the Right PG/VG Ratio for You Deciding on the right balance depends on your priorities: Want stronger flavour and throat hit? Go for a higher PG ratio. Want smooth inhales and big clouds? Choose high VG e-liquids. Not sure yet? Start with a 50/50 blend and adjust from there. If you’re brand new to vaping, we recommend pairing a 50/50 e-liquid with a simple starter kit. This way, you can see what you prefer before experimenting with more specific blends. How PG and VG Affect Devices Your choice of PG and VG also impacts which vape kit you should use: High PG liquids: Best for starter kits and pod systems with coils above 1.0 ohm. High VG liquids: Best for sub-ohm vape kits with coils below 1.0 ohm. 50/50 liquids: Versatile and compatible with most beginner-friendly devices. Using the wrong liquid for your kit can cause problems. For example, thick VG liquids in a small pod system may clog the coil or lead to dry hits. On the other hand, thin PG liquids in a high-powered sub-ohm device may leak or feel too harsh. PG and VG Safety A common question is whether PG and VG are safe to inhale. Both ingredients are considered safe for human consumption. While some vapers may experience minor sensitivity to PG (such as a dry throat or mild irritation), most people vape comfortably with no issues. FAQs About PG and VG What is VG and PG in vape juice? VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol) are the base ingredients in vape juice. They create the vapour, carry flavour, and influence throat hit and cloud size. Can I mix my own PG and VG? Yes, DIY e-liquid makers often mix their own ratios. However, most vapers find it easier to buy ready-made blends like 50/50 e-liquids. What happens if I use the wrong PG/VG ratio? Your vape may leak, taste harsh, or produce less vapour if the PG/VG blend isn’t matched to your device. Which is better – PG or VG? Neither is ‘better’ overall – it depends on your preferences. PG gives more throat hit and flavour, while VG gives smoother inhales and bigger clouds.

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How To Find Your Ideal Vape Nicotine

How To Find Your Ideal Vape Nicotine

If you want to have a pleasant vaping experience, you need to choose the right vape nicotine level. Getting it right matters. It avoids harshness and makes the experience satisfying. This blog helps you find your ideal vape nicotine. It explains key concepts clearly, so you can make the right choice. Why Vape Nicotine Levels Matter Nicotine levels in e-liquids usually use milligrams per millilitre (mg/ml). That figure reveals how much nicotine each millilitre contains. Typical amounts include 0, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 20 mg/ml. These numbers show how much nicotine you inhale. Too low, and you might not feel much. Too high, and you may feel dizziness or throat irritation. That makes choosing the right strength important for a smooth transition from smoking. Know Your Smoking Habits If you don’t know where to start, try to match vape nicotine to your past smoking pattern: Light smokers (1–5 cigarettes per day): Try 3 mg freebase or 5 mg nic salts. Moderate smokers (6–14 cigarettes per day): 6 mg freebase or 10 mg nic salts works well. Heavy smokers (around one pack a day): Start with 12 mg freebase or 20 mg nic salts. Very heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes a day): There’s a freebase option of 18 mg. Nicotine Strengths Explained When you look at e-liquids, you will see numbers like 0 mg, 3 mg, 6 mg, 12 mg, 18 mg, and 20 mg. These figures describe how much nicotine is in each millilitre of liquid. Below is a simple guide: 0 mg – Nicotine-free. Best for vapers who enjoy flavour and the hand-to-mouth habit but no longer want nicotine. 3 mg – Very low. Good for light smokers or those stepping down from higher levels. Works well in sub-ohm devices. 6 mg – Low to medium. Suits moderate smokers. Gives a mild throat hit and light satisfaction. 12 mg – Medium to strong. Feels more noticeable. Fits smokers used to up to a pack a day. 18 mg – Strong. Delivers a punchy throat hit and satisfies heavier smokers. 20 mg (maximum legal in the UK) – Very strong. Usually found in nic salts and designed for heavy smokers seeking fast relief. Understanding these options makes it easier to decide. Pick a starting point close to your old smoking habit, then adjust up or down based on how you feel. Spot the Difference: Freebase vs. Nicotine Salts Freebase Nicotine Offers a harsher throat hit, especially above 12 mg Slower to act and leave your system Flavour tends to feel muted at higher strengths Better for gradual reduction over time Nicotine Salts Deliver smooth hits even at higher strengths Work faster and last longer Keep flavour intense and satisfying  Suit MTL pod kits and help curb cravings quickly Nic salts have changed vaping. They allow higher nicotine with minimal discomfort. The maximum legal concentration in the UK for any e-liquid remains 20 mg/ml. Align Your Device Style with Nicotine Levels Device choice links tightly to nicotine strength: Mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices favour higher nicotine strengths up to 20 mg. They offer throat hit similar to cigarettes Direct-to-lung (DTL) devices handle low-nicotine or no-nicotine liquids. They produce big clouds and work best with high VG, low-nicotine juice (0–3 mg) Pick the right vape kit to match your nicotine choice. That improves satisfaction and helps avoid any issues. Safety and Legal Limits In the UK, 20 mg/ml is the strongest legal strength for e-liquids. Any product above that limit likely lacks safety checks and should be avoided. Steps to Finding the Right Nicotine Strength Here’s a practical, active checklist: Assess your smoking pattern Set point of reference: light, moderate, or heavy habits. Choose nicotine style Prefer instant relief and smooth hits? Go for nic salts. Prefer gradual reduction or don’t mind throat hit? Pick freebase. Match to your device Opt for MTL for higher strengths, DTL for low or zero nicotine. Start sensiblePick a strength aligned with your smoking habit. Avoid jumping too high, that risks discomfort or nausea. Adjust as needed If you feel unsatisfied, increase strength slowly. If you feel too buzzed, lower it. Know the limit Stay at or below 20 mg/ml for safety and legal peace of mind. Final Thoughts Choosing your vape nicotine level influences how effective and enjoyable your vaping journey can be. When done right, it diminishes cravings, satisfies you, and makes quitting easier. Use your smoking habits as a guide, hold legality and safety up front, and adjust responsibly. With the right level, your switch to vaping becomes not just smoother but powerful and reassuring. FAQs About Vape Nicotine Levels What nicotine level should I start with if I smoked 10 cigarettes a day? Most moderate smokers do well with 6 mg freebase or 10 mg nic salts. This provides enough nicotine to manage cravings without being overwhelming. Can I change my nicotine level later? Yes. Many vapers reduce strength over time. If you feel light-headed or your throat feels sore, lower the strength. If cravings return quickly, increase slightly What’s the difference between nic salts and freebase? Nic salts feel smoother and act faster in the body. Freebase nicotine has a stronger throat hit and is better for gradually reducing intake. Does a higher nicotine level mean more vapour? No. Vapour output depends on your device and the ratio of VG (vegetable glycerin) in the liquid, not nicotine strength.  

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