A Beginner’s Guide to Vaping: Everything You Need to Know

Thinking about switching to vaping but not sure where to start? Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Vaping can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but this beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started confidently. 

From types of vapes and nicotine strengths, to what to expect in the first few days, we’ve got you covered. 

🔌 What Do You Need to Start Vaping?


To get started, you’ll need a few basic things: 

  • A starter kit (also called a vape kit or e-cigarette) 
  • E-liquid (also called vape juice) 
  • Coils or pods (depending on your device) 


Most beginner vape kits come with everything you need except the e-liquid, which you choose based on your taste and nicotine needs. 


👉 Browse our starter kits for easy-to-use vapes designed for beginners.

🔋 Types of Vapes for Beginners


There are a few different types of vape kits, but here are the most popular for new users: 


1. Pod Kits

  • Small, compact, and easy to use 
  • Use pre-filled or refillable pods 
  • Great for quitting smoking 


2. Pen-Style Kits

  • Slim and simple with a refillable tank 
  • Slightly more powerful than pods 
  • Good for light to moderate smokers 


3. Disposable Vapes

  • Pre-filled so no refilling 
  • Great for trying vaping before committing 
  • Less cost-effective in the long run but cheaper to try 

💨 Types of Nicotine in E-Liquids


There are two main types of nicotine used in vape juice: 


1. Freebase Nicotine

  • Slower nicotine hit 
  • Stronger throat hit 
  • Best for lower strengths (3mg, 6mg) 


👉 Check out our freebase range for smoother satisfaction.


2. Nicotine Salts (Nic Salts)

  • Smoother on the throat 
  • Absorbs quickly into the body 
  • Ideal for new vapers who need a quick nicotine fix 


👉 Check out our nic salt range for smoother satisfaction.

⚖️ What Nicotine Strength Should I Use?


Choosing the right nicotine strength is key to quitting successfully. 

Nicotine StrengthIdeal For
3mg Very light smokers or occasional vapers 
6mg Light to moderate smokers (up to 10 a day) 
10mg – 12mg Moderate to heavier smokers 
18mg – 20mg Heavy smokers (20+ a day) or recent quitters 

If you’re not sure, starting with 10mg nic salts is a safe middle ground. 

😮 What to Expect When You Start Vaping


It’s totally normal to experience a few things in the first few days of switching from cigarettes to vaping: 

  • Coughing – Your lungs are adjusting; it usually passes after a few days. 
  • Dry mouth or sore throat – Stay hydrated and consider a lower nicotine level if it’s too harsh. 
  • Nicotine cravings – You may need to experiment with strength or vape more often than you smoked. 
  • Different sensation – Vaping feels different from smoking, but many people get used to it quickly. 


Most new vapers adjust within a week or two, and many find the switch easier than expected. 

🛠️ Tips for New Vapers

  • ✅ Start with a simple device — no need to complicate things early on 
  • ✅ Let your coil prime before your first puff (wait 5–10 mins after filling) 
  • ✅ Take gentle, steady puffs, not sharp drags like a cigarette 
  • ✅ Keep your device topped up with e-liquid to avoid dry hits 
  • ✅ Don’t worry if it takes a few tries — every vaper was a beginner once! 

Final Thoughts


Vaping is one of the most effective ways to quit smoking — and with the right setup, it can be enjoyable and easy. Start with the right device, pick a nicotine strength that matches your smoking habits, and give yourself a little time to adjust. 


👉 Ready to start your journey? 

Explore our full range of beginner vape kitsnicotine salts, and helpful guides