Vaping 101: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide For 2024
This guide is here to break down everything you need to know about vaping, from the types of devices to e-liquids, and even some tips for making the switch.
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Getting Started With Vaping: The Basics…
So, you’re thinking about making the switch to vaping? Awesome! Vaping is a great way to get your nicotine fix without all the nasty stuff that comes with smoking traditional cigarettes.
But if you’re new to vaping, it’s totally normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. There’s a lot of jargon and different types of devices to get your head around, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered
What is Vaping?
In simple terms, vaping is the process of inhaling vapor from an electronic device, typically called a vape or e-cigarette. Instead of burning tobacco, these devices heat up a liquid (called e-liquid or vape juice) to create vapor.
This means you’re not inhaling the thousands of harmful chemicals you’d get from traditional smoking.
Plus, vaping gives you a lot more control over your nicotine intake, making it a solid option for people looking to cut down or quit smoking altogether.
A Brief History of E-Cigarettes
E-cigarettes have come a long way since they first hit the market.
Back in 2003, the first e-cigarette was invented in China, and since then, vaping has exploded in popularity worldwide.
Initially, it was all about cig-a-likes (those vape pens that look like regular cigarettes), but as tech evolved, so did the vaping world.
Now, you’ve got everything from simple pod systems to advanced mods that can be fully customized to your preferences.
Why Vaping Beats Smoking
There are a bunch of reasons why people choose vaping over smoking.
For starters, vaping doesn’t involve combustion, which means fewer harmful chemicals.
It also gives you more control over your nicotine levels, and there’s no lingering smoke smell. Not to mention, you can choose from hundreds of awesome flavors, which makes the whole experience way more enjoyable.
And if you’re looking to quit smoking, vaping can make the transition smoother by allowing you to slowly reduce your nicotine intake.
Types of Vaping Devices
Alright, let’s talk gear. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to upgrade, there are a few different types of devices to consider. We also have a handy checklist for buying your first vape too, so check that out if you need help.
Here’s the lowdown on the main categories of vapes.
Disposable Vapes
These are the easiest vapes to get started with. They’re pre-filled with e-liquid and come ready to use right out of the box.
Once they’re done, you just toss them.
They’re super convenient but come with limited flavor options and can get expensive if you vape regularly. Plus, there’s the whole environmental downside of throwing away a device every time it’s empty.
- Pros: No setup needed, portable, discreet
- Cons: Limited flavors, non-rechargeable, less eco-friendly
Closed Pod Systems
Cig-a-likes are small, rechargeable devices that look and feel like traditional cigarettes – these suck, though, so avoid them like the plague.
Closed pod systems are a step up—small, sleek devices that use pre-filled pods. JUUL is perhaps the best known example of a closed pod system. These are great for beginners because they’re easy to use and super portable. They’re also draw-activated, so you just puff and go.
My advice? Avoid these too; they’re insanely expensive and they’re nowhere near as good as a refillable pod vape.
- Pros: Simple, portable, easy to use
- Cons: Limited e-liquid options, small battery capacity
Vape Mods and Pod Vapes
Once you’re comfortable with vaping, you might want to explore advanced mods.
These devices let you customize things like wattage and temperature to suit your preferences.
They offer longer battery life, more vapor production, and are great for cloud chasers or anyone who wants to fine-tune their experience.
Pod mods are the middle ground between pod systems and full-blown mods—giving you more power and versatility without being too bulky.
- Pros: Fully customizable, powerful, huge vapor production
- Cons: Not ideal for beginners, requires some knowledge
Understanding E-Liquids
Now that you’ve got a handle on the devices, let’s talk juice. E-liquid – also known as vape juice – is what you’ll be vaping, and it’s available in all kinds of flavors and nicotine strengths.
Nicotine Strengths
Choosing the right nicotine strength is crucial for a good vaping experience. If you’re using sub-ohm tanks (high-power ones that kick out loads of clouds), you’ll want to use low nicotine, freebase, High VG vape juice.
If you’re using pod vapes or MTL tanks, use nicotine salts vape juice – it usually starts at 10MG and tops out at 50MG.
If you’re switching from smoking, you’ll want to pick a strength that matches your current nicotine use.
RULE OF THUMB: freebase, high VG juices are for sub ohm tanks, and nicotine salts (Nic Salts) is for pod vapes and low power MTL tanks
PG/VG Ratios
E-liquids are made from two main ingredients: PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerin).
PG gives you a stronger throat hit, while VG produces bigger clouds.
Most e-liquids are a mix of both, but you can tweak your ratio based on the type of device you’re using and what kind of vaping experience you’re after.
Flavors
The best part of vaping? The flavors. From fruity blends to desserts and even tobacco options, there’s a flavor for everyone.
We always recommend experimenting to find what you like. The variety is huge, so don’t be afraid to try something new. You can check out my favorite vape juices here (based on 15+ years experience in the industry).
Vape Coils Explained
Vape coils are what heat up your e-liquid and turn it into vapor. They’re an essential part of your device, and knowing a little about them will help you get the best performance.
What Are Vape Coils?
Coils are basically wire wrapped around a wick (usually cotton) that gets soaked in e-liquid. When the coil heats up, it vaporizes the juice. Different materials like Kanthal, Nichrome, and Stainless Steel all affect how the coil performs.
ALL vapes used coils – from disposables to rebuildable tanks to pod vapes. They might look different, but they all work in the same fashion.
Coil Resistance
You’ll see coil resistance measured in ohms. A lower ohm coil (sub-ohm) produces more vapor and is usually used for Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping. Higher ohm coils are more suited for Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping, giving you a tighter draw and less vapor.
Mesh and Ceramic Coils
Mesh coils are becoming super popular because they heat evenly, last longer, and produce better flavor. Ceramic coils are great for high-temperature vaping and tend to last even longer than mesh.
Coil Maintenance
Priming your coils—adding a few drops of e-liquid to the cotton before using them—is key to extending coil life. If your vape tastes burnt or you’re not getting the same flavor, it’s time to change your coil.
And if it tastes burnt right away, it means you haven’t let the vape juice soak into the coil properly. To properly prime a coil – either in a tank or a pod – you want to fill her up with juice and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before using it.
Vaping Techniques
How you vape can totally change your experience. There are two main techniques:
- Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Vaping: MTL vaping mimics the way you’d smoke a cigarette—draw the vapor into your mouth, then inhale. It’s great for beginners and works well with devices like pod systems.
- Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Vaping: DTL vaping is all about pulling the vapor straight into your lungs. This produces bigger clouds and is usually done with sub-ohm setups. If you’re into massive clouds and intense flavor, this is for you.
Battery Safety and Maintenance
Keep your vape running smoothly by taking care of your batteries.
Always use the right charger for your device, store batteries in a cool, dry place, and replace them if they show signs of damage.
Proper battery care can prevent accidents and extend your vape’s lifespan.
If you’re using a pod vape or a disposable, just be careful to charge it up using the right cable. Most are now USB-C, so they charge fast.
I don’t like to leave mine on charge overnight just to be safe. Most modern pod vapes will charge up to 100% within 30 to 90 minutes.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best vapes can have issues. If you’re dealing with leaks, make sure your tank is sealed properly and you’re not overfilling it. Dry hits? That usually means your coil needs more juice or it’s time to replace it. If your flavor’s off, try changing the coil or using a different e-liquid.
We have thousands of vape user guides, so check them out for more details about specific problems – use the search box to find what you’re looking for!
Vaping in Public Spaces: What You Need to Know
Vaping in public can definitely be a bit of a gray area, so it’s super important to know the rules before you start puffing away.
In some places, vaping is treated exactly like smoking, meaning you’re restricted to designated smoking areas. In others, the rules can be a bit more relaxed, but that doesn’t mean you can vape just anywhere.
Being respectful of those around you is key—and let’s face it, nobody likes clouds of vapor blown in their face, even if it smells like strawberries.
Here are a few real-life examples of how public vaping regulations can differ:
The UK
In the UK, vaping is pretty widely accepted, but that doesn’t mean you’re free to vape everywhere.
While it’s not illegal to vape indoors in most public places, a lot of businesses and transport services have their own rules.
For example, you’re not allowed to vape on buses or trains, and many pubs and restaurants ban vaping indoors as well. So, before you whip out your vape in a bar, it’s always a good idea to ask if they allow it.
The USA
In the U.S., vaping regulations vary from state to state—and sometimes even city to city.
In California, vaping is banned in most indoor public places, including bars and restaurants. New York has similar restrictions, where vaping is treated the same as smoking in public areas.
However, in some states, like Florida, the rules are more relaxed, with vaping allowed in places where smoking is banned, as long as local regulations permit it.
Japan
Traveling abroad? Be aware that some countries have very strict regulations on vaping.
Japan, for example, has outlawed the sale of nicotine-containing e-liquids, although non-nicotine vapes are still legal.
If you’re caught vaping in a no-smoking area, you could face fines. It’s best to stick to designated smoking zones to avoid any issues.
The UAE
If you’re heading to the UAE, you’ll find that vaping in public spaces is tightly regulated.
While vaping itself isn’t illegal, you can’t use your vape in places like shopping malls, restaurants, or on public transport.
It’s also worth noting that you could face fines if caught vaping in non-designated areas.
Be Respectful of Others
Even when vaping is allowed, it’s important to be mindful of the people around you.
For instance, blowing massive clouds at a bus stop or in a crowded area is not just bad etiquette—it could lead to complaints or even fines if you’re in a restricted zone.
Think of it this way: just because vaping smells better than cigarettes doesn’t mean everyone wants to be enveloped in your vanilla custard cloud.
The bottom line? Always check local laws, pay attention to the signs, and when in doubt, ask. Vaping in public is totally doable, but being courteous and aware of your surroundings makes all the difference.
Vaping in public spaces can be tricky, so always check local laws. Some places treat vaping like smoking, and it’s important to be respectful of those around you.
Health and Safety
Vaping isn’t without its risks, but it’s widely recognized as a much safer alternative to smoking. The key difference? Vaping eliminates the combustion process, which means you’re not inhaling the thousands of harmful chemicals that are released when you burn tobacco.
Instead, you’re inhaling vaporized e-liquid, which contains fewer harmful substances. That said, vaping isn’t 100% risk-free, and it’s important to stay informed and make educated decisions about the products you use.
The major reason vaping is considered safer than smoking comes down to the absence of combustion. When you light a cigarette, you’re not just inhaling nicotine; you’re also inhaling tar, carbon monoxide, and a whole cocktail of other harmful chemicals.
These are the primary contributors to smoking-related illnesses like lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems.
Vaping, on the other hand, delivers nicotine through vapor rather than smoke.
E-liquids contain ingredients like propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and sometimes nicotine. While long-term research is ongoing, studies have shown that vaping significantly reduces your exposure to toxic chemicals compared to smoking.
Key Studies and Sources
Several reputable organizations and studies have weighed in on vaping, providing balanced insights into its benefits and potential risks.
Here are some key sources that offer a more favorable view of vaping, while still acknowledging the need for responsible use and further research:
Public Health England (PHE) Public Health England has been one of the most vocal organizations advocating that vaping is a safer alternative to smoking. In its 2015 and subsequent reports, PHE stated that vaping is “at least 95% less harmful” than smoking. This figure has been widely cited by advocates of vaping as a smoking cessation tool. While they acknowledge that vaping is not without risk, they stress that it is far less damaging to health compared to traditional smoking.
Key takeaway: Vaping is a highly effective harm-reduction tool for smokers looking to quit.
The Royal College of Physicians (RCP) The Royal College of Physicians in the UK published a comprehensive report in 2016, titled Nicotine without smoke: tobacco harm reduction. The RCP concluded that e-cigarettes can serve as an effective aid for quitting smoking, and, like PHE, found them to be substantially safer than smoking. The RCP emphasized that while long-term studies are still needed, the risk posed by vaping is small compared to the well-established dangers of smoking.
Key takeaway: The RCP supports vaping as a tool for smoking cessation and harm reduction.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) In recent years, the American Cancer Society has updated its stance on vaping. While they remain cautious and encourage more research, they acknowledge that vaping is likely far less harmful than smoking. The ACS encourages smokers who cannot quit through traditional means to consider switching to vaping as a less risky alternative.
Key takeaway: Vaping can be a useful alternative for smokers, but non-smokers should avoid it.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) The CDC takes a more cautious approach, especially in light of concerns about vaping-related lung injuries in 2019, which were later linked to illicit THC cartridges rather than standard nicotine e-liquids. However, the CDC acknowledges that vaping can be a valuable tool for adult smokers if used to completely transition away from combustible cigarettes. They emphasize the importance of using regulated, quality products.
Key takeaway: While vaping isn’t risk-free, it’s a safer option than smoking—especially if you use legitimate, high-quality products.
Cochrane Review The Cochrane Review, known for its high standard of evidence-based research, conducted a meta-analysis on e-cigarettes in 2020. Their findings support the idea that vaping is an effective smoking cessation tool, noting that e-cigarettes containing nicotine are more likely to help people quit smoking than nicotine replacement therapies like patches or gum.
Key takeaway: Vaping is a useful tool for smoking cessation, supported by strong scientific evidence.
The Importance of Quality Products
One of the biggest factors in ensuring your vaping experience is as safe as possible is choosing quality products.
With the rise of counterfeit and unregulated vaping products, particularly in the wake of the 2019 “vaping crisis,” it’s more important than ever to stick with trusted brands.
Always buy your devices and e-liquids from reputable vendors to avoid low-quality products that could contain harmful ingredients.
Here are some tips for choosing quality vaping products:
- Stick to well-known brands: Companies like SMOK, Vaporesso, and JUUL are known for their strict quality control and safety standards.
- Check for certifications: Look for e-liquids that are made in facilities that follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) and other regulatory standards.
- Avoid black-market products: Stay away from counterfeit products and unregulated e-liquids. These often don’t meet safety standards and could contain harmful chemicals.
- Use the right e-liquids: Make sure your e-liquids are designed for your device. Using the wrong liquid type (like putting nicotine salts in a sub-ohm tank) can damage your device and negatively impact your experience.
Staying Updated on the Latest Research
Vaping is still a relatively new technology, and research into its long-term effects is ongoing.
That’s why it’s crucial to stay informed by keeping up with the latest studies and findings.
Reliable sources like Public Health England, the Royal College of Physicians, and the Cochrane Review regularly update their positions based on new evidence.
Following these organizations can help you stay on top of any new developments in vaping safety.
If you’re a smoker looking to quit, vaping can be an effective tool for making that transition, but as with anything related to your health, always be cautious and make educated choices.
Getting Started: Tips for New Vapers
To wrap things up, here’s some quick advice if you’re just starting out:
- Pick the right device: If you’re new, go for a simple pod system or vape kit.
- Choose the right e-liquid: Start with a nicotine strength that matches your current smoking habit and choose the right type for your device.
- Take your time: Transitioning from smoking to vaping can take time, so don’t rush it. You’ll get the hang of it soon enough!
Vaping FAQs
When you’re getting started with vaping, you’ll have lots and lots of questions and gaps in your knowledge. Even the basics might seem a little advanced to begin with. That’s why I’ve put together this vape FAQ section – it covers (and answers) all the most common questions newbie users tend to have.
Vaping FAQs
Look, if you’re a beginner or just getting started with vaping, you probably have a million and one questions.
How do I know?
Because I get emails from readers every day!
Here’s some of the most common questions those new to vaping have, complete with a simple and straightforward answer…
What’s The Best Vape For First-Timers?
If you’re new to vaping, it’s all about keeping things simple. The best bet? A pod system or a vape pen. These bad boys are compact, low-maintenance, and offer a smooth, cigarette-like experience. If you want zero fuss, a disposable vape could be your perfect match – just unwrap it and puff away, no setup needed.
Got Your First Vape? Here’s What To Do Next…
First thing’s first, read the damn manual! Sounds obvious, but it’ll save you from rookie mistakes. Once you’re clued up, charge that device fully before taking your first puff. If you’ve got a refillable vape, load up the tank or pod with e-liquid. Using a device with replaceable coils? Don’t forget to prime that coil – add a few drops of juice to the pod or tank, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before hitting it. Trust us, you don’t want to burn out a fresh coil on day one.
What To Expect When You First Vape?
Vaping for the first time is kinda like your first smoke – expect a throat hit and a little nicotine buzz. If you’ve never smoked before, don’t be surprised if you feel a bit dizzy or cough a little. That’s normal. Any throat irritation or dizziness should fade as you get used to the whole thing.
How Should A Beginner Vape?
Take it easy – seriously. Slow and steady puffs are the way to go, especially at the start. Don’t pull too hard, or you’ll end up in a coughing fit. If you’re using an MTL (Mouth-to-Lung) device, take the vapor into your mouth first, then inhale, like you would with a cig. DTL (Direct-to-Lung) devices? You can inhale straight into your lungs. Start with low nicotine and dial it up if you need to.
Is The First Day Of Quitting Vaping The Toughest?
Yeah, it’s no walk in the park. The first day without vaping can be a struggle, especially if you’re used to a nicotine fix. Cravings, irritability, and restlessness will probably hit hard for the first few days. But hang in there – most people start feeling better after the first 3-4 days.
How Many Hits Should You Vape A Day?
It all depends on your nicotine needs and what your body’s telling you. If you’re fresh to vaping, start slow and see how you feel. Heavy smokers making the switch might need more frequent hits, but don’t overdo it – too much nicotine can leave you with a headache or nausea.
What’s The Best Vape For Beginners?
Pod systems and vape pens are the go-to for newbies. They’re easy to use, maintain, and won’t overwhelm you with options. Vape pens give you a little more control, while disposables are perfect if you want a zero-hassle start.
Why Does Vaping Feel Harsh At First?
If your first hit feels like a punch to the throat, it’s probably down to high nicotine levels or sucking too hard. Start with lower nicotine and take it slow – you’ll get the hang of it. Switching to e-liquids with a higher VG (Vegetable Glycerin) content can also make your vape smoother. If you’re after the best experience possible, check out our Best Vape Juice Guide.
Why Does Vaping Hurt My Throat?
A sore throat when you first start vaping? Totally normal. It could be the high nicotine content or just the fact that your body isn’t used to vapor yet. Start low with the nicotine, take gentler puffs, and if you’re a smoker switching over, stick to Mouth-to-Lung devices for an easier transition.
What’s It Like Hitting A Vape For The First Time?
Your first hit might catch you off guard. Expect a throat hit and maybe a little head rush if the nicotine’s high. You might cough, but don’t worry – it’ll pass. Once you’ve adjusted, the flavor and vapor production are where the fun really begins.
Meet Drake, the dude behind VapeBeat
If it vapes, I’ve probably used it or tested it. I’ve spent the past decade balls-deep in the vaporization business, covering everything from weed vapes to pod vapes and disposable vapes.
I’ve been to all the main conventions, talked at events, and even been on a few press trips. I like cannabis, I like CBD, I like vaping nicotine and I know what’s good and what’s not – mostly because I’ve been around for so bloody long.
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Drake Equation is the founder of VapeBeat. He’s been covering vaporization technology since 2014.
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