Your vaping journey can feel overwhelming with so many devices, liquids, and techniques to choose from. This guide walks you through everything you need to know as a new vaper, from choosing your first device to understanding how to vape correctly. Whether you're switching from smoking or trying vaping for the first time, we'll help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
What is vaping?
Vaping involves inhaling vapour produced by an electronic device that heats e-liquid. Unlike traditional cigarettes that burn tobacco, vape devices use a battery-powered coil to heat liquid into vapour. The e-liquid typically contains nicotine, flavourings, and a base of vegetable glycerin (VG) and propylene glycol (PG).
Vape devices come in many forms, from simple disposables to refillable pod systems and advanced kits. Each type offers different benefits depending on your experience level and preferences.
Should I start vaping?
Vaping is primarily designed as an alternative for adult smokers looking to quit cigarettes. If you currently smoke and want to reduce harm, vaping offers a less harmful option. Public Health England has stated that vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes. Read our guide to stop smoking and start vaping for more information.
However, if you don't smoke, there's no reason to start vaping. Vaping is not risk-free and should only be considered by adult smokers as part of their journey to quit nicotine altogether or as a harm reduction tool.
What age can you start vaping?
In the UK, you have to be 18 years old to buy and use vapes, even nicotine-free ones. It’s illegal to sell them to anyone under that age, with rules against those of age buying for minors.
How to start vaping as a beginner
Starting vaping involves three simple steps: choose your device, select your e-liquid, and learn the correct technique.
- Choose your first device: Start with something simple. Vape starter kits bundle everything you need in one package. Pre-filled pod kits work well for absolute beginners as they require minimal setup, whilst refillable options give you more flavour choices.
- Select appropriate e-liquid: Match your nicotine strength to your smoking habits. Heavy smokers typically start with 10-20mg nicotine salts, whilst lighter smokers might prefer 5-10mg. Choose a 50/50 VG/PG ratio for most starter devices.
- Learn the basics: Understand how to charge your device, fill or attach pods, and use the correct inhalation technique. Most devices are draw-activated, meaning you simply inhale to produce vapour.
What kind of vape should a beginner use?
Beginners should use either pre-filled pod kits or simple refillable pod systems. These devices offer straightforward operation without complicated settings or maintenance requirements.
Pre-filled pod kits like the Elf Bar pod kits or VUSE Pro provide convenience similar to disposables but with rechargeable batteries. You simply attach a pre-filled pod and vape until empty, then replace it with a new flavour.
Refillable pod kits offer more flexibility and better value over time. Options from brands like Uwell, Vaporesso, and Voopoo let you choose any e-liquid you want.
Avoid advanced devices with multiple settings, replaceable batteries, or sub-ohm capabilities when you're just starting out. These require more knowledge and maintenance.
How to use a vape pen for the first time
Using a vape pen is simpler than it looks. Most modern devices are designed for ease of use, especially those aimed at beginners.
- Charging: Before first use, charge your device fully using the included cable. Most devices have an LED indicator that shows charging status.
- Filling or attaching pods: For refillable devices, remove the pod, locate the fill port (usually on the side or bottom), and carefully add e-liquid. Don't overfill. For pre-filled systems, simply click the pod into place.
- Priming: If using a new coil or pod, let it sit for 5-10 minutes after filling to allow the e-liquid to saturate the coil properly. This prevents dry hits.
- Activating: Most vape pens are draw-activated, meaning they turn on when you inhale. Some have a button you need to press while inhaling. Check your device's instructions.
- First puff: Take a gentle, steady draw. Don't inhale too hard or too fast. Start with short puffs to get used to the sensation.
How to inhale a vape for the first time
Two main vaping styles exist: mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung (DTL). As a beginner, you'll likely use MTL, which mimics cigarette smoking. When inhaling with the mouth-to-lung technique, simply draw vapour into your mouth first, hold it briefly (1-2 seconds), then inhale into your lungs. Afterwards, exhale.
The MTL style works best for starter devices and higher nicotine e-liquids because it provides:
- A satisfying throat hit
- Effective nicotine delivery
- A familiar sensation for ex-smokers
- Better flavour recognition
Related: MTL vs DTL Vaping
Do I inhale or hold a vape pen?
You inhale the vapour into your lungs after drawing it into your mouth first. There's no benefit to holding vapour in your lungs as some people do with other substances. Nicotine absorption happens quickly through the mouth and lungs, so simply inhale and exhale naturally.
Holding vapour doesn't increase nicotine absorption but may irritate your throat or lungs unnecessarily.
Is it better to puff or inhale a vape?
You need to do both. The correct technique involves puffing vapour into your mouth, then inhaling it into your lungs. This combination delivers the best throat hit and nicotine satisfaction.
Simply puffing without inhaling won't deliver nicotine effectively. Direct lung inhaling without the mouth-to-lung step can feel harsh for beginners using higher nicotine strengths.
Tips for comfortable inhaling:
- Take shorter puffs initially whilst you adjust
- Don't inhale too deeply at first
- Space out your puffs to avoid overwhelming your throat
- Experiment with different draw speeds to find what feels right
What to expect when vaping for the first time
Your first vaping experience might feel different from smoking, but these sensations are normal and temporary:
- Initial throat sensation: E-liquid can create a stronger throat hit than expected, especially with higher nicotine strengths. This isn't harmful and you'll adjust quickly. If it feels too harsh, try a lower nicotine strength.
- Flavour intensity: Vaping delivers stronger, cleaner flavours than cigarettes. The taste might seem unusual at first if you're used to tobacco, but most people appreciate the variety after a few days.
- Vapour production: Even small devices produce visible vapour. Don't be surprised by the amount compared to cigarette smoke.
- Nicotine satisfaction: Vaping delivers nicotine differently than smoking. It may take a few minutes longer to feel satisfied initially, but you'll find your rhythm quickly.
Does it burn when you first start vaping?
Some throat sensation is normal, but vaping shouldn't burn. If you experience burning:
Possible causes:
- Nicotine strength too high for your tolerance
- Dry or burnt coil (didn't prime properly)
- Drawing too hard on the device
- High PG content in your e-liquid
Solutions:
- Try a lower nicotine strength
- Ensure coils are properly saturated before use
- Take gentler, slower draws
- Choose an e-liquid with a higher VG ratio
A slight throat hit is expected and desired, especially for ex-smokers. This sensation mimics the throat hit from cigarettes. True burning sensations indicate a problem that needs addressing.
Related: Is Vaping Safe?
What happens to your body when you first start vaping?
When switching from smoking to vaping, your body begins recovering immediately. Within hours, carbon monoxide levels drop, and oxygen levels normalise. Within days, your sense of taste and smell improves noticeably.
Some people experience temporary side effects during the first few days:
- Dry mouth or throat
- Light headedness
- Slight cough
- Increased thirst
These symptoms are typically mild and resolve within a week as your body adjusts. They often result from your body clearing out tar and other chemicals from smoking rather than from vaping itself.
Stay hydrated, as both PG and VG can cause mild dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day whilst vaping.
How long does it take to get used to vaping?
Most people adjust to vaping within 3-7 days. The physical adaptation happens quickly, but finding your perfect device, e-liquid, and nicotine strength might take a bit longer.
Week 1: Your throat adjusts to the sensation and you learn proper technique. Initial side effects like dry mouth typically resolve.
Weeks 2-4: You settle into a routine and discover which flavours and nicotine strengths work best. Cravings for cigarettes reduce significantly if you're quitting smoking.
Beyond one month: Vaping feels completely natural. You've likely experimented with different flavours and possibly upgraded your device based on your preferences.
Give yourself time to adjust. Don't give up after one day if it doesn't feel perfect immediately. For more, read our guide to what happens when you stop smoking and start vaping.
How to fill a vape tank for the first time
Filling a vape tank or pod correctly prevents leaking and ensures optimal performance.
For top-fill devices:
- Unscrew or slide open the top cap
- Locate the fill port (avoid the central airflow tube)
- Angle the e-liquid bottle and squeeze gently
- Fill to the maximum line, leaving some air space
- Close the cap securely
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before vaping
For side-fill devices:
- Remove the pod from the device
- Locate the rubber bung or fill port on the side
- Open it and insert the e-liquid bottle nozzle
- Squeeze gently until full
- Replace the bung securely
- Wipe away any excess liquid
Never overfill your tank. Leave space for air to allow proper pressure balance. Overfilling causes leaking and poor performance.
Which vape flavour is best for beginners?
The best beginner flavour depends on your personal taste and smoking background.
For ex-smokers: Many people start with tobacco flavours for familiarity, but fruity or menthol options often work better for making a clean break from cigarettes. Popular choices include:
- Watermelon
- Strawberry
- Blue razz
- Menthol or ice blends
Related: Menthol Cigarette Alternatives
For flavour explorers: Try popular mainstream flavours that most people enjoy:
- Elf Bar ELFLIQ range
- Lost Mary MARYLIQ options
- Bar Juice varieties
Don't commit to large bottles initially. Buy smaller 10ml bottles to test different flavours before investing in your favourites. Most vapers rotate between several flavours to prevent taste fatigue.
Check out our recommendations for the best e-liquids for more inspiration, or learn the best vape flavours according to vapers.
How to vape correctly for beginners
Correct vaping technique ensures you get the most satisfaction from your device whilst avoiding common mistakes:
- Take steady, gentle draws: Don't suck hard on your device. Take slow, controlled draws lasting 3-5 seconds.
- Use the MTL technique: Draw vapour into your mouth, pause briefly, then inhale into your lungs.
- Space out your puffs: Wait 30-60 seconds between puffs. Chain vaping (taking many puffs rapidly) can cause coil flooding or burning.
- Keep your device upright: When not in use, store your vape upright to prevent leaking.
- Maintain your device: Clean the mouthpiece regularly and replace coils or pods when flavour diminishes or you taste a burnt flavour.
- Stay hydrated: Vaping can cause mild dehydration. Drink water throughout the day.
For more information, read our guides on how long vapes last and cleaning and maintaining your vape.
What is the vape trick for beginners?
If you're interested in vape tricks, the easiest one to master is blowing O-rings (smoke rings). This requires practice but impresses people once you get it right.
How to blow O-rings:
- Take a good draw and hold vapour in your mouth
- Form your lips into an "O" shape
- Keep your tongue at the bottom of your mouth
- Push small amounts of vapour out using your throat (like a gentle cough)
- Practice controlling the size and speed
Start with larger, slower rings before attempting smaller, faster ones. This trick works better with devices that produce decent vapour clouds. For more advanced tricks and techniques, read our guide on vaping tricks: how to blow smoke rings and more.
Choosing the right device and accessories
Selecting appropriate equipment makes your vaping experience significantly better.
Device considerations:
- Battery life sufficient for your daily needs
- Size and portability that fits your lifestyle
- Ease of use and maintenance requirements
- Compatibility with your preferred e-liquids
Essential accessories:
- Spare pods or coils
- Charging cable (usually included)
- E-liquid in appropriate strength and ratio
- Cleaning supplies (cotton buds, tissues)
Browse our complete range of vape kits to find options that match your needs and budget, or read our guide to the best vaping accessories.
Common beginner vape mistakes to avoid
Learning from common mistakes helps you avoid frustration and wasted money.
- Using the wrong nicotine strength: Too high causes harsh throat hits and dizziness. Too low leaves you unsatisfied. Start with 10-12mg if you're a moderate smoker and adjust from there.
- Not priming coils: Always let new coils or pods saturate for 5-10 minutes after filling. Vaping immediately causes burnt coils.
- Chain vaping: Taking too many puffs too quickly floods or burns coils. Space out your draws.
- Using the wrong e-liquid type: Match your e-liquid to your device. Pod systems need 50/50 or nic salt liquids, not high-VG shortfills.
- Ignoring maintenance: Clean your device regularly and replace coils when performance drops. Neglect leads to poor flavour and leaking.
- Giving up too quickly: Allow a week to adjust before deciding vaping isn't for you. The first few days feel different from smoking.
Related: Vaping Wire Guide: Coil Building for Beginners
Moving beyond beginner devices
Once you're comfortable with vaping basics, you might want to explore other options.
When to upgrade:
- Your current device no longer satisfies your needs
- You want more flavour choices or better performance
- You're confident maintaining more complex devices
- You want better battery life or larger capacity
Next steps:
- Try refillable pod vape kits for more flexibility
- Explore different e-liquid brands and flavour profiles
- Consider 4-in-1 pod vape kits that offer versatility
- Research advanced vape kits if you want more control
Many vapers start simple and gradually progress to more advanced setups as their knowledge grows.
Getting support and advice
If you have questions or concerns, our expert team understands the challenges of switching from smoking or starting vaping for the first time. We stock products from trusted brands including Elf Bar, Lost Mary, VUSE, and IVG. For more detailed information about specific topics, explore our guides section or read about alternatives to disposable vapes.