Getting Started with Vaping For Beginners

• Finding the right vape kits, e-liquids and coils for you
• Discovering flavours and nicotine strengths
• Setting up your first vape kit
• Troubleshooting and tips for vapers

Over more than 15 years, vaping has emerged as a powerful tool to help smokers quit cigarettes. Organisations like the NHS recognise it as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, stating that "vaping is substantially less harmful that smoking."[i]. Since 2008, Totally Wicked has been a leader in this field, guiding countless smokers on their journey to a smoke-free life.

What is Vaping?

Vaping is the use of devices which produce a vapour that, to some extent, mimics the act of smoking. This vapour delivers nicotine, but without the extensive list of harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke, such as arsenic and tar[ii].

Where to Begin With Vaping?

When starting out, user-friendly options like pre-filled pod kits are ideal. These mouth-to-lung (MTL) devices mimic the familiar draw of a cigarette, activating with a simple inhale. This makes the transition from smoking smoother, allowing new vapers to focus on quitting rather than learning a new device.

While the sensation of vaping is similar to smoking, there are some differences. The flavour of e-liquids can vary greatly, from traditional tobacco to fruity, dessert, or menthol options. The vape liquid also feels different in your throat, often described as smoother than smoke. It’s important to experiment with different flavours and nicotine strengths to find what suits you best and enjoy the journey of discovering a new, less harmful alternative to smoking.

Benefits of Vaping vs Smoking

The benefits from switching from smoking to vaping are widely known across the industry and beyond. The NHS has stated that “Switching to vaping significantly reduces your exposure to toxins that can cause cancer, lung disease, and diseases of the heart and circulation like heart attack and stroke”. These diseases are not caused by nicotine, which is relatively harmless to health. While it's not advisable to start vaping if you have never smoked, the health benefits of using vaping for smoking cessation are clear – leaving smoking for vaping is better for you and your body.

Another benefit to quitting smoking with vapes is financial. By using our quit smoking calculator, you can find out how much you could save each week, month or year.

Which Vape Kit Is For You?

When choosing a vape kit, it's good to consider at what level you are at. If you are new to vaping then disposables and pre-filled pods can be a good and convenient place to start. However, they aren't particularly environmentally friendly, or cheap in the long run. For vapers that are looking to move on from pre-filled pod kits, then we suggest looking at refillable devices. They utilise e-liquids that you manually fill the vape tanks with. Our recommended steps into vaping are just guidelines; many people that have used vapes to help quit smoking have gone straight to refillable pod kits and more customisable vape kits.

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Disposables:

These vapes, which include the hugely popular Elf Bar 600 and SKE Crystal Bar, offer the ultimate convenience when it comes to vaping. Simply opening the box, removing the silicone stopper and taking a puff is by far the easiest method of vaping. Part of the reason they are good for making the switch to vaping is the mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping style. Simply draw on the mouth piece and inhale. The downsides to these kits is the single use nature of the device itself. A majority of these are non-rechargeable and only last up to 600 puffs (the equivalent of 2ml vape liquid). Kits such as the IVG 2400 have the capacity to hold four 2ml pods, produce up to 2400 puffs and have a battery size that can last through the full vaping experience.

While disposable vapes offer a convenient entry point for smokers looking to quit, it’s important to be aware of the upcoming ban in April 2025. The UK government defines any device with a non-removable coil and/or a battery that isn't rechargeable as single-use, and these will be subject to the ban. To ensure an uninterrupted vaping experience, considering pre-filled and refillable pod kits is a smart move. These options offer a more sustainable and more cost-effective approach to vaping.

Pre-filled Pod Kits:

Pod kits with pre-filled pods offer a convenient and rechargeable alternative for those transitioning from smoking. Whereas they might not be quite as convenient as disposables, they are not far behind. With pre-filled kits such as the VLTZ Flex Pro Box, all you need to do is unpack the device, remove the silicone stopper and insert the pod. Although some devices like the Lost Mary Tappo, require you to prime the coil in the pod before inserting it into the device. It's only a matter of pushing the base of the pod in firmly though.

4-in-1 pod kits, like the SKE Crystal 4 in 1, provide a convenient way of getting a longer-lasting pre-filled pod experience. These kits feature four 2ml pods in a single device, allowing you to easily switch between different flavours without the need to carry multiple vapes.

Refillable Pod Kits

The next step on the journey is via refillable pod vape kits. Much like Pre-filled Pod Kits, they can be recharged and only require one small extra step in comparison, which is refilling the pod whenever you start to run dry. Whereas it may not be as instantly convenient as the pre-filled pod kits or disposables, it does have financial benefits thanks to refilling with e-liquid which is much cheaper in comparison to pre-filled pods. Refillable pod kits come in all shapes and sizes.

If you’re looking for something with style and feels like a disposable then options such as the VLTZ Flex Pro Bar Refillable is definitely worth experimenting with. It’s a simple to use device thanks to its built-in atomizer head and side filling feature. Another option is the eRoll Slim by Joyetech, this handy little device comes with a portable charger case (PCC) for extended vaping sessions.

Vape Kits

Vape kits allow for a personalised vaping experience, catering to different preferences and styles. For those seeking simplicity, kits like the Skope Air offer a straightforward setup process similar to refillable devices, except for the additional step of replacing the coil. On the other hand, more experienced vapers may prefer a kit such as the Arc Mini 2, which provides greater customization by allowing adjustments to wattage and voltage.

Understanding Coils and Atomizers

When you’re new to vaping, it’s helpful to understand the various types of vapes available and how they work. The coil is a crucial component found in all vape devices, including vape pens, pod system vapes, and box mod vapes.

Vape coils are responsible for heating your e-liquid and converting it into the vapour you inhale. They consist of a metal wire or mesh in contact with a wicking material, usually cotton. When you activate your device, the wire heats up and atomizes the e-liquid absorbed by the cotton.

When comparing vape devices, you’ll discover a wide range of coils that offer different vaping experiences. While terms like “standard coils” and “sub-ohm coils” are still used, the lines between them are blurring. Generally, higher-resistance coils are better suited for Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping, which mimics the draw of a cigarette and emphasizes flavour. Lower-resistance coils are typically preferred for Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping.

However, many modern coils can be used for both styles depending on the device, airflow settings, and your personal preference. Ultimately, the best way to find the right coil for you is to experiment and see what you enjoy most!

When exploring the types of vapes available, it’s important to ensure that you choose a coil that is compatible with your specific device and tank, as coils are not universally interchangeable.

Regardless of the type of vape you use, coils need to be replaced periodically, typically every 1-2 weeks, depending on usage. Signs that it’s time to change your coil include reduced vapour production and a slight burnt taste.

You should always prime your coil before its first use, normally by adding a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton. Allowing the new coil to sit in a filled tank for a few minutes before vaping and starting at a lower power setting can also help prevent damage and prolong its lifespan.

Video: When to Change Your Vape Coil?

Different Vape Coil Ohm Resistance

The resistance of a vape coil, measured in ohms, is a crucial factor that significantly influences your vaping experience. Understanding the relationship between resistance and vaping is helpful for making informed choices about your vape setup.

Lower resistance coils:

Lower resistance coils, often called “sub-ohm” coils, operate below 1.0 ohm, with 0.8 ohm being a common option. These coils allow more electrical current to reach the coil, generating greater heat. This increased heat leads to larger vapour clouds and a more intense flavour experience from your e-liquid. However, it’s important to be aware that lower resistance coils put a higher demand on your vape's battery, potentially resulting in faster battery depletion.

Higher Resistance Coils:

Higher resistance coils (1.0 ohm and above) restrict the flow of electrical current, operating at lower power levels. This results in less heat generation, leading to smaller amounts of vapour and a milder flavour profile compared to sub-ohm coils. A significant advantage of higher resistance coils is extended battery life, as they consume less power. A common resistance level for these coils is around 1.2 ohms.

Choosing the Right Coil Resistance:

Selecting the ideal coil resistance depends on your personal preferences and desired vaping style:

• Intense flavour & clouds: If you prioritise bold flavours and bigger vapour production, lower resistance – coils are the way to go.
• Discreet vaping & battery conservation: For those who prefer a more subtle vaping experience and want to extend their battery life, higher resistance coils are a suitable choice.

It’s worth noting that coil resistance is just one component that influences your vaping experience. Other factors such as wattage settings, coil material, and e-liquid composition also play a role in shaping your vape. Experimenting with different combinations of these elements can help you find the perfect setup that suits your tastes and needs.

What is Mouth to Lung and Direct to Lung Vaping?

MTL vaping is the perfect choice for smokers looking to quit cigarettes and transition to vaping. This style, often used with vape pens and pod system vapes, closely mimics the act of smoking a cigarette, making it easier for smokers to adapt to vaping. When comparing MTL vs DTL, it’s clear that MTL vaping allows you to savour the flavour of your e-liquid as you hold the vapour in your mouth before inhaling it into your lungs, just like you would with a cigarette.

Pros and cons of MTL vaping

For those wondering "what is direct to lung vaping". It's the preferred style for experienced vapers and cloud chasers who have moved beyond the cigarette-like experience. This method involves inhaling the vapour directly into your lungs in one smooth motion, often using powerful box mod vapes.

Pros and cons of DTL vaping

Now that you’re familiar with different vaping styles, let’s explore e-liquids. E-liquids are what you vape, and they come in a huge variety of flavours, nicotine strengths, and PG/VG ratios. The best part is, there’s no one-size-fits-all.

What Are E-liquids and E-liquid Types?

E-liquids, also known as vape juices or vape liquids, serve as the essential liquid component used in electronic cigarettes and vaping kits. The term “e-liquid” refers to a wide range of liquid formulations designed for vaping, each with its unique characteristics and properties.

One key aspect of e-liquids is the ratio of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerine (VG). PG and VG are the two main base liquids used in e-liquids, and their proportions can significantly impact the vaping experience.

50/50 E-liquids:

50/50 e-liquids like Red Label represent the perfect middle ground in the world of vaping. They contain an equal mix of PG/VG, offering a balance of flavour, throat hit, and vapour production. This versatility makes them a popular choice for both new vapers and experienced users seeking a reliable all-around vape. 50/50 e-liquids work well in most standard vape devices, making them an easy, hassle-free way to enjoy the vast spectrum of flavours available in the e-liquid market.

Shop 50/50 E-liquids

High PG:

High PG e-liquids such as Patriot typically contain a higher ratio of PG in comparison to VG. These e-liquids often deliver a stronger throat hit, similar to the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. They also tend to produce less vapor, making them suitable for low-wattage devices.

Shop High PG E-liquids

Bar Salts:

E-liquids, such as VLTZ Bar Salts, are a unique type of nicotine salt specifically formulated for use in disposable vapes. They are designed to deliver a satisfying vaping experience with the lower-wattage devices. What sets bar salts apart from nicotine salt e-liquids is their intense flavour profile, achieved through the use of sweeteners and cooling agents.

Shop Bar Salts

Nicotine Salts:

Nicotine salts are a relatively new form of nicotine used in e-liquids. Compared to 50/50 E-liquids, nic salts offer a smoother throat hit, even at higher strengths. Nicotine salts like Symphonic are formulated to provide a smooth vaping experience. They offer a range of flavours and strengths to suit individual preferences, making them a popular choice among both new and experienced vapers.

Shop Nicotine Salts

Different Nicotine Strengths in E-liquids

E-liquids come in a range of nicotine strengths, typically expressed in milligrams per millilitre (mg/mL) or percentage (%). Choosing the right strength for you depends on your individual smoking history and personal preferences.

Your vaping device plays a crucial role. High-powered devices generally work best with lower nicotine strength e-liquids to avoid a harsh throat hit. Lower-powered devices often need higher nicotine concentrations for a satisfying experience. Nicotine salts offer a smoother hit compared to traditional “freebase” nicotine, allowing for comfortable use at higher strengths if desired.

Finding Your Ideal Vape Juice Nicotine Strength

The right nicotine strength depends on your individual needs and smoking history. It’s generally advised to start with a level that reflects your past cigarette consumption and adjust as needed. Don’t forget to consider the large selection of flavoured e-liquids available to personalise your vaping experience.

Video: What Nicotine Strength E-liquid Do I Need?

Choosing The Right Vape flavour And Why It’s Important

Flavours play a vital role in the journey of quitting smoking through vaping. Studies suggest that getting assistance in choosing vape flavours can increase your chances of quitting smoking by 55%[iii]. To make informed decisions, we offer a unique service that allows you to visit any of our stores and speak to a staff member. Here, you can try different flavours and strengths to help you make the right choices.

For further information about the various flavours, you can also refer to our reviews and articles. Our product reviews from ordinary customers like you are an excellent indicator of the intense vape juice flavours we provide. Additionally, we publish annual and seasonal guides to the best vape flavours.

Best E-liquid Flavours

Vape Flavours for spring

The Best E-Liquid Flavours for Autumn

The Best Summer E-liquids

Setting Up and Using Your First Vape or Pod Kit

Getting started with vaping can be easy! Here’s a flexible guide - always check your specific kit’s instructions to confirm the best order of steps.

• Pre-filled Pods: These are the simplest to use. The pod comes pre-filled with e-liquid and is simply clicked into the battery. Once it’s empty, you discard the pod.
• Refillable Pods: These offer more flexibility. You can choose your own e-liquids and refill the pod when it’s empty.
• Open Pod Systems: These are a type of refillable pod system that allows you to replace the coil inside the pod, giving you even more customization options.

• Whenever you install a new coil (pods or tanks): Drip a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the exposed cotton. This prevents a burnt taste on your first vape.
• If you are using a fixed coil, then you simply need to fill pod and leave to prime for around 2-3 minutes.

Tip: Aim for the sides and centre of the cotton, but don’t oversaturate. Look for it to be slightly puffy and showing the e-liquid colour.

• Pods: locate the fill port (usually a silicone plug). Fill carefully, avoid overfilling (which can lead to leaking).
• Tanks: filling methods vary:
• Top-fill: unscrew the top cap or slide to locate the fill ports.
• Side-fill: gently open the silicone plugs to reveal the fill ports.
• Bottom-fill: unscrew the tank’s base to access the fill port.

Important: Always leave a small air gap at the top to prevent leaking. Check your tank for a maximum fill line if it has one.

• Reassemble the Tank: screw all parts back together tightly, checking the threads are aligned correctly to avoid leaks.
• Attach the Pod/Tank: push it in gently or screw it on firmly, but without over-tightening.
• Check for Leaks: before vaping, quickly look for any signs of e-liquid leaking from connections or the fill port.

• This is essential! Let the device sit for 3-5 minutes so the e-liquid fully soaks into the coil. This prevents those nasty dry hits.

• Most devices activate by pressing a button or simply inhaling. Start with short, gentle draws.
• Adjustments: Some kits let you adjust power or airflow, allowing you to control flavour intensity, throat hit and cloud production. Play around to find your preference.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting Vape Kits and E-liquids

Proper vape maintenance is essential for ensuring the best possible performance and longevity of your devices. This guide will cover how to clean a vape, fix common issues like vape leaking, and provide vape troubleshooting tips to address problems like a burnt vape taste.

Cleaning your vape tank:

• With your vape kit turned off, disassemble the device and wash the tank with warm water between flavour changes
• Ensure all seals are in place and undamaged
• Use a dry, unused toothbrush to clean the contact threads

Fixing a leaking vape:

• Check for cracks or damage in the tank or atomizer
• Ensure all seals are in place and undamaged
• Avoid drawing too hard on the inhale, as this can cause flooding
• Wipe excess e-liquid from the atomizer before reassembling the tank
• Protect your device from extreme heat, which can cause leaking

Troubleshooting a burnt vape taste:

• Check your coil: remove the coil and inspect it closely. Look for dark, burnt areas on the cotton or discoloration of the coil itself. If you see signs of burning, it’s time to replace the coil.
• Ensure proper priming: priming your coil requires slowly adding a few drips onto the exposed cotton and letting it soak for several minutes before filling the tank. This prevents burning the dry cotton on first use.
• Avoid running the tank dry: always keep your tank topped up with e-liquid. Vaping on an empty tank can burn the wicking material and lead to a burnt taste.
• Use the correct wattage range: most coils have recommended wattage ranges printed on them. Exceeding this can burn the coil prematurely. If unsure, start on the lower end of the range and gradually increase to find your preference.

Regular vape maintenance, such as cleaning your device and replacing coils when needed, can help prevent many common issues. If you experience problems like a leaking vape or burnt taste, follow the troubleshooting steps above to identify and resolve the issue.

Vape Battery Safety and Charging Tips

Practising proper vape battery safety is crucial to avoid potential hazards and ensure the longevity of your device. Vape batteries, like all lithium-ion batteries, contain flammable materials and can pose risks if not handled, disposed of, or charged correctly. Misuse, overcharging, or damage to the batteries can lead to overheating. To minimise these risks and maintain the optimal performance of your vape device, it’s essential to follow these safety guidelines:

Charging your vape safely

• Never leave your device charging unattended
• Ensure the connector and contacts are clean and dry before connecting

Vape battery storage

• Store batteries in a cool, dry environment away from metal objects
• Never carry loose batteries with exposed contacts in your pocket or handbag
• Do not use batteries with torn or damaged wrapping

Additional vape battery tips

• Avoid exposing your batteries to extreme temperatures
• Dispose of old or damaged batteries properly, following local regulations

By following these vape battery safety and charging tips, you can minimise the risk of accidents and ensure your device operates safely and efficiently. Always prioritise safety when handling and charging your vape batteries, and if you have any concerns, you can give our customer support a call and they will help you further with any questions you may have.

Tips for Successfully Transitioning from Smoking to Vaping

If you’re ready to quit smoking, switching to vaping can be a helpful step towards a healthier lifestyle. While the ultimate goal is to be completely nicotine-free, vaping offers a significantly less harmful way to manage cravings and transition away from traditional cigarettes. Reputable organisations like the NHS and Cancer Research UK support the use of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool.

Here are some tips to help you make the switch:

• Do Your Research: There’s a wide variety of vaping devices out there. Investigate starter kits designed for transitioning smokers, and explore different e-liquid flavours and nicotine strengths. Get personalized guidance and find the perfect setup for you:

• Your local TW Store: use our store finder to locate your nearest shop and talk to our knowledgeable staff.
  • Customer Services: contact our customer service team: phone, email, or live chat.
  • VLTZ Transition Page: check out our dedicated transition page packed with resources and tailored advice for a seamless switch.
• Set Realistic Goals: quitting smoking can be challenging. Set achievable goals for yourself, don’t get discouraged if you slip up - persistence is key.
• Choose the Right Nicotine Strength: start with an e-liquid nicotine strength that aligns with your current smoking habits. This reduces the risk of intense cravings. You can gradually decrease the strength over time as you become comfortable with vaping.
• Find Your Vaping Style: experiment with different inhalation techniques. While smoking often involves short, sharp puffs, vaping may benefit from longer, slower draws. Pay attention to what satisfies you.
• Don't Give Up Too Soon: you may find switching really easy, or it could take a little time to adjust. give yourself some time to get used to the sensation of vaping. If the first device or e-liquid doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to try others until you find something that works.

When starting out with vaping, it’s important to choose a device and e-liquid that fits your needs. Mouth-to-lung devices like disposables and pre-filled pod are a good starting point as they replicate the familiar draw of a cigarette. As you progress, you can explore refillable pod kits and more advanced devices that allow greater customization.

It’s also important to select the right nicotine strength based on your smoking habits. Whether you find the transition to vaping a doddle or it takes you a little time to find the right type of e-cig for you, vaping can be an effective way to quit smoking and transition to a smoke-free life. Support is available from our vape shops, our customer services, and via our online resources.

References

[i] https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/vaping-to-quit-smoking/

[ii] https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/smoking-and-cancer/whats-in-a-cigarette-0

[iii] https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jul/16/smokers-who-get-e-cigarette-flavour-advice-more-likely-to-quit-report-finds