Vaping has become very common in the UK, with millions of adults now choosing it as an alternative to traditional smoking. People often hear about vape pens, disposable vapes, e-cigarettes, and Prefilled pod systems, but many still ask, what is vaping and why is it so popular?

One of the main reasons people switch is the difference between vaping vs smoking. According to Public Health England (PHE) and the NHS, vaping is considered much less harmful compared to regular cigarettes because it doesn’t burn tobacco.

Instead of smoke, a vape device heats e-liquid that contains ingredients like PG (Propylene Glycol), VG (Vegetable Glycerin), flavourings, and nicotine. This creates vapour that feels similar to smoking but reduces the number of dangerous chemicals.

In the UK, vaping has also become popular because of the wide variety of flavours, nicotine strengths, and affordable devices such as Elf Bar, Lost Mary, and Hayati. Many smokers see it as a way to cut down or quit smoking completely, while others enjoy it as a lifestyle choice.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about vaping. We’ll look at what a vape is, the different types of vapes available in the UK, how e-liquids work, the history of vaping, legal rules, health studies, and beginner tips. Whether you are just curious or planning to switch from smoking, this guide will give you a clear overview of vaping in the UK today.

What is Vaping?

how it works: battery, coil, liquid, vapor

Vaping means using a vape device or e-cigarette to breathe in vapour instead of smoke. A vape has a battery, a coil, and a small container for e-liquid. When you press the button or inhale, the battery powers the coil. The coil heats the liquid, which turns into vapour. This vapour can contain nicotine, flavourings, and ingredients like PG (Propylene Glycol) and VG (Vegetable Glycerin).

Because there is no burning, there is no smoke. That is why vaping feels smoother and often comes with flavours such as fruit, mint, or tobacco. Popular UK brands like Elf Bar, Lost Mary, and Geek Bar use this same system in their disposable vapes.

Difference between vaping and smoking

The biggest difference between vaping vs smoking is how they deliver nicotine. Cigarettes burn tobacco, which produces smoke filled with thousands of harmful chemicals including tar and carbon monoxide. This smoke is what causes most of the damage to the lungs and heart.

On the other hand, vaping only heats e-liquid to create vapour. This means no tobacco is burned. According to the NHS, many smokers switch to vaping because it provides nicotine in a way that feels similar but reduces exposure to dangerous chemicals.

Is vaping safer than smoking? (Public Health England study reference)

According to Public Health England (PHE), vaping is estimated to be around 95% less harmful than smoking. This is because vapour contains far fewer toxic substances compared to cigarette smoke. The UK government and health organisations such as the NHS often encourage smokers to try vaping as a way to cut down or quit smoking completely.

However, vaping is not completely risk-free. Nicotine can still be addictive, and experts like the World Health Organization (WHO) remind that non-smokers should not start vaping. For adults who already smoke, though, vaping is widely seen as a safer choice.

What is a Vape Device?

Main components of a vape (battery, tank/pod, coil, e-liquid)

A vape device is an electronic product designed to turn e-liquid into vapour. Almost every vape, whether it’s a small disposable vape or a large vape mod, has four main parts:

• Battery – powers the device. Some are built-in and rechargeable with USB-C, while advanced vapes use replaceable batteries.

• Tank or Pod – holds the e-liquid. In pod systems, the liquid is inside small plastic pods, while mods and pens often use refillable tanks.

• Coil – a small metal heating element wrapped with cotton. When the battery powers it, the coil heats up and turns liquid into vapour.

• E-liquid – the liquid mixture that contains PG (Propylene Glycol), VG (Vegetable Glycerin), nicotine, and flavours. Popular UK flavours range from fruity blends to menthol and classic tobacco.

Different styles of vapes (pen, pod, mod, disposable)

There are several types of vapes available in the UK market, and each style is designed for different needs:

• Vape Pens – slim, pen-shaped devices that are simple to use and refill. A good option for light to medium users.

• Pod Systems – compact devices that use pre-filled or refillable pods. Brands like Hayati and Crystal Pro are popular Prefilled pod vapes in the UK.

• Vape Mods – larger, more powerful devices with adjustable settings such as wattage and airflow. Preferred by experienced vapers who want big vapour clouds.

• Disposable Vapes – single-use devices pre-filled with e-liquid, like hayati 15k and Crystal pro max 4000. These are the most popular option for beginners in the UK because they are cheap, easy, and ready to use straight away.

Which type is best for beginners in UK

For beginners in the UK, the most recommended options are Prefilled Pod vapes and pod systems. These are widely available in convenience stores, supermarkets, and online vape shops. They are small, budget-friendly, and require no setup.

Pod systems are also beginner-friendly, since you only need to replace the pod when it runs out. According to the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA) and the NHS, these styles make it easier for smokers to switch because they feel simple and satisfying.

For someone completely new, starting with a pre-filled pod vape can be the easiest step. Once comfortable, many people move on to refillable pods or vape pens to save money and enjoy more flavour choices.

Also, Check out the detailed guide on vape and its types in the UK

What’s Inside a Vape? (E-liquids Explained)

Ingredients: PG, VG, nicotine, flavourings

The liquid used in a vape device is called e-liquid or vape juice. It’s a mixture of a few main ingredients:

• PG (Propylene Glycol) – a thin liquid that carries flavour well and gives a stronger throat hit, similar to smoking.

• VG (Vegetable Glycerin) – a thicker liquid that creates bigger vapour clouds and a smoother inhale.

• Nicotine – the substance that smokers crave. It can be added in different strengths or left out completely.

• Flavourings – food-grade flavour concentrates that create different tastes like fruit, mint, menthol, dessert, or classic tobacco.

Brands like Elf Bar, Lost Mary, and Juul use these ingredients in both disposable vapes and pod systems to make them enjoyable for users.

Nicotine strengths available in UK (0mg–20mg TPD limit)

In the UK, e-liquids are regulated under the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD). This law sets rules on how much nicotine can be included in vape juice. The maximum strength allowed is 20mg/ml (2%), which is common in nicotine salt disposables like Elf Bar 600.

Here are the usual nicotine levels available:

• 0mg (nicotine-free) – for people who just enjoy flavours without nicotine.

• 3mg–6mg – for light smokers or social vapers.

• 10mg–12mg – for medium smokers who want stronger satisfaction.

• 18mg–20mg (max limit in UK) – for heavy smokers switching to vaping.

This range gives beginners in the UK flexibility to match their smoking habit with the right nicotine strength.

Chemicals: are they harmful? (research-based explanation)

One of the most common questions is whether the ingredients in e-liquids are harmful.

• PG and VG are widely used in everyday products like food, cosmetics, and medicines. They are generally recognised as safe when inhaled, although some people may find PG irritating to the throat.

• Flavourings used in vapes are food-grade, but their long-term effects when inhaled are still being studied.

• Nicotine itself is addictive but not the main cause of smoking-related diseases. The harm in cigarettes mostly comes from burning tobacco, tar, and carbon monoxide.

According to Public Health England (PHE) and the NHS, vaping is much less harmful than smoking because e-liquids do not produce tar or carbon monoxide. A large 2015 study by PHE estimated vaping to be around 95% safer than smoking.

Still, experts such as the World Health Organization (WHO) note that vaping is not risk-free, especially for non-smokers and young people. For adults trying to quit cigarettes, though, it is widely seen as a safer option.

Types of Vapes Available in UK

Disposable Vapes (easy & cheap) - Now Banned In 2025

Disposable vapes are the most popular option in the UK, especially among beginners. Brands like Elf Bar, Lost Mary, and Geek Bar dominate this market because they are cheap, small, and ready to use straight away. Each device comes pre-filled with e-liquid and a built-in battery that usually lasts for 600 puffs (the UK legal limit). 

Kindly Note that Disposable vapes are now banned in uk from June 2025

• Pros: No charging, no refilling, very easy to use.

• Cons: Expensive if used daily, limited flavours per brand, not eco-friendly.

Vape Pens (slim and beginner-friendly)

Vape pens are slim, pen-shaped devices with a refillable tank. They are a step up from disposables but still simple to use. Many UK vapers start with vape pens because they are affordable and easy to carry.

• Pros: Refillable, better value for money, more flavour options.

• Cons: Smaller battery life compared to mods, need some maintenance like coil changes.

Pod Systems (refillable & prefilled)

Pod systems are compact devices that use pods instead of tanks. They come in two main types:

• Pre-filled pods (like Hayati pro 6k or Randm 9k) – easy and clean, just replace the pod.

• Refillable pods – allow you to use any e-liquid flavour or strength.

They are popular in the UK because they give a balance between convenience and cost savings.

• Pros: Small size, nicotine salt compatibility, easy switching between flavours.

• Cons: Pods can be costly, less power compared to mods.

Vape Mods & Box Mods (advanced users)

Vape mods or box mods are the most powerful devices. They have large batteries, adjustable wattage, and custom features like airflow control. These are usually for experienced users who want big clouds and long-lasting performance.

• Pros: Best vapour production, customisation, strong battery life.

• Cons: Bulky size, more expensive, requires knowledge of coils and settings.

A Brief History of Vaping

Who invented the vape? (Hon Lik, 2003)

The modern vape device was invented in 2003 by a Chinese pharmacist named Hon Lik. He created the first e-cigarette after losing his father to a smoking-related illness. His idea was to design a device that could deliver nicotine without burning tobacco, avoiding harmful tar and smoke.

By 2004–2005, his invention spread across China and later entered Europe and the UK market. This was the start of the global vaping industry.

When did vapes become popular in UK?

Vaping started to become popular in the UK around 2010–2012, when early cig-a-like devices were introduced. These looked similar to cigarettes but used small cartridges.

The real boom came around 2016–2018, when disposable vapes and pod systems like Juul entered the market. Brands such as Crystal Prime and Lost Mary then made vapes widely available in supermarkets, petrol stations, and online vape stores.

Today, according to Action on Smoking and Health (ASH UK), there are more than 4 million adult vapers in the UK, and the number keeps growing every year.

How regulations shaped the market (TPD law, NHS stance)

The growth of vaping in the UK has been strongly influenced by regulations.

• In 2016, the UK adopted the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) from the EU, which set rules like:

  • Maximum 20mg/ml nicotine strength.

  • Maximum 2ml e-liquid capacity for tanks and pods.

  • Maximum 600 puffs for disposables.

  • Child-resistant and tamper-proof packaging.

• The NHS (National Health Service) has taken a supportive stance on vaping, stating that it is far less harmful than smoking and can help people quit cigarettes. Public Health England (PHE) famously reported in 2015 that vaping is around 95% safer than smoking.

Because of these rules and health campaigns, the UK has one of the most regulated but also most supportive vaping markets in the world.

H2: Popularity of Vaping in the UK

H3: Vaping stats in UK (how many people vape in 2025)

Recent data from ASH UK shows that by 2025, around 10.4% of adults in Great Britain vape, which translates to about 5.5 million vapers. Daily vaping has also increased: about 7.6% of adults vape every day, up from 4.5% in 2020. This growth has strong roots among ex-smokers: 91% of vapers who used to smoke now vape daily.

These numbers show that vaping is now a mainstream habit in the UK, used by smokers looking to switch, as well as people who recently quit.

Celebrities who vape (cultural influence)

Vaping has become more visible thanks to celebrities. Public figures like Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Allen, Sophie Turner, Joe Swash, and Angela Rayner have all been spotted vaping in various public settings. Their influence helps shape vaping into a cultural and lifestyle trend, with fans viewing it as fashionable and modern.

Social media also plays a big role. Content showing vaping—often endorsed or shown by influencers—increases visibility and interest, especially among younger audiences. Studies from the University of York have confirmed this influence on rising vaping behaviour through social media exposure.

Why UK is one of the largest vaping markets

The UK is now one of the largest vaping markets in Europe. In 2024, the market was valued at around £1.7 billion, serving over 5.6 million users. Analysts expect continued growth, with projected compound annual growth (CAGR) of 13.6% between 2025 and 2029.

Several factors explain this popularity:

• Supportive health guidance from the NHS and Public Health England, which views vaping as a useful tool for smoking cessation.

• Moderate regulation under TPD gives users safe and clear guidelines.

• Wide availability of vape shops, online retailers, and convenience stores stocking brands like Elf Bar, Lost Mary, and Juul.

• A vibrant culture driven by flavours, disposable vapes, and innovative product designs.

Even though recent policies such as the disposable vape ban (effective June 2025) aim to curb youth use and reduce e-waste, experts warn that the market may shift to reusable models rather than shrinking. This adaptive growth shows how resilient and popular vaping remains in the UK.

Benefits and Risks of Vaping

Benefits over smoking (less harmful, cheaper, variety of flavours)

One of the main reasons people in the UK switch from cigarettes to vaping is because it is widely considered less harmful than smoking. Traditional cigarettes burn tobacco, releasing tar and thousands of toxic chemicals. In contrast, vape devices heat e-liquids made from PG (Propylene Glycol), VG (Vegetable Glycerin), flavourings, and nicotine, producing vapour instead of smoke.

For many smokers, vaping is also cheaper. A pack of cigarettes in the UK costs around £5–15, while a disposable vape or a refillable pod system often lasts longer for less money. Over time, switching to refillable vape kits and e-liquids can save hundreds of pounds each year.

Another benefit is the wide variety of flavours and nicotine strengths. From fruit blends and dessert flavours to classic tobacco, UK vapers can choose what suits them best. This flexibility makes vaping more enjoyable and easier for smokers to transition.

Risks (nicotine addiction, not for non-smokers, youth concern)

Although vaping is less harmful than smoking, it is not completely risk-free. The main concern is nicotine addiction. Most e-liquids in the UK contain nicotine, and using them regularly can maintain or even increase dependence.

Experts warn that vaping is not suitable for non-smokers or young people. The variety of sweet and fruity flavours sometimes attracts youth, raising concerns about underage use. This is why the UK government is introducing new rules like the 2025 disposable vape ban to reduce youth uptake and protect public health.

Another risk is that the long-term effects of vaping are still being studied. While it contains far fewer harmful chemicals than smoking, inhaling vapour may still irritate the lungs, especially for people with asthma or respiratory issues.

NHS / Public Health England official stance

The NHS and Public Health England (PHE) have been clear in their stance: vaping is much less harmful than smoking. A landmark PHE study in 2015 stated that vaping is about 95% safer than smoking.

The NHS also highlights vaping as one of the most effective tools for quitting smoking, especially when combined with behavioural support. Official stop smoking services in the UK now recommend e-cigarettes as an option for adults trying to quit tobacco.

However, the NHS also makes it clear that vaping is not risk-free, and it is only recommended for smokers who want to quit. Non-smokers, young people, and pregnant women are strongly advised not to start vaping.

Beginner’s Tips for Vaping

Choosing the right vape kit for your needs

When starting out, the most important step is picking the right vape kit. In the UK, beginners usually choose between:

• Disposable vapes – ready to use, no setup needed, good for trying vaping for the first time. Now in 2025, the disposable vapes are banned & best alternative is Prefilled Pods.

• Pod systems – small and refillable, easy to maintain, and cost-effective in the long run.

• Vape pens – slim, portable, and beginner-friendly.

If you’re switching from cigarettes, a pod kit or starter vape pen is usually the best choice. They are simple, affordable, and give a smoother experience compared to big box mods, which are designed for advanced users.

Selecting nicotine strength correctly

Choosing the right nicotine strength is crucial to avoid cravings or side effects. In the UK, e-liquids are regulated under the TPD law, so the maximum strength is 20mg. Here’s a quick guide:

• High strength (16mg–20mg nic salts): Best for heavy smokers (15+ cigarettes per day).

• Medium strength (10mg–12mg): For light-to-medium smokers.

• Low strength (3mg–6mg): For very light smokers or those cutting down.

• 0mg nicotine: For people who want the sensation of vaping without nicotine.

Using nicotine salts (nic salts) is also popular in the UK. They provide a smoother throat hit and faster absorption, making them ideal for ex-smokers.

What wattage should you vape at? (simple explanation for beginners)

Most beginner vape kits come with fixed wattage, so you don’t need to worry about settings. But if you use a device with adjustable wattage, here’s a simple rule:

• Low wattage (10–15W): Best for pod systems and nic salts. Produces less vapour but stronger nicotine hit.

• Medium wattage (15–30W): Good for vape pens and standard e-liquids. Balanced flavour and vapour.

• High wattage (30W+): Usually for advanced mods, creating big clouds with low nicotine e-liquids.

Tip: Always check the recommended wattage range printed on your coil. This prevents burnt taste (known as a dry hit).

Common beginner mistakes (dry hits, wrong e-liquid choice, chain vaping)

New vapers often make mistakes that can ruin the experience. Some of the most common are:

• Dry hits: Puffing without enough e-liquid in the coil, leading to a burnt taste. Always let your coil soak for a few minutes after refilling.

• Wrong e-liquid choice: Using high VG juice in a small pod system can clog the coil. For pods, use 50/50 PG/VG blends; for mods, use 70VG/30PG.

• Chain vaping: Taking constant puffs without giving the coil time to re-saturate causes overheating and burnt flavour. Wait 20–30 seconds between puffs.

• Too much nicotine: Choosing a nicotine level that’s too high can cause dizziness, nausea, or headaches. Start low and adjust if needed.

Avoiding these mistakes will make your transition from smoking to vaping much smoother.

Legal Side of Vaping in UK

Minimum age for vaping in UK

In the UK, the legal age for buying vapes is 18 years old. This applies to all products, including disposable vapes, pod kits, e-liquids, and nicotine pouches.

Shops are required to check ID before selling. Selling to under-18s is a criminal offence and can result in fines or loss of licence for retailers. The UK government has also announced tougher rules in 2025 to stop underage access, including restrictions on how vapes are displayed and marketed.

Where can you vape legally (public spaces, pubs, transport)?

Unlike smoking, there is no nationwide ban on vaping in public spaces in the UK. However, businesses and organisations set their own rules. For example:

• Public transport (trains, buses, London Underground): Vaping is banned.

• Airports and planes: Strictly banned (though some airports have designated vape areas).

• Workplaces and offices: Depends on employer policies; many treat vaping the same as smoking.

• Restaurants and pubs: It’s up to the venue; some allow it, most don’t.

Tip: Always check for signs or ask staff before vaping indoors. In general, outdoor vaping is acceptable, but be mindful of others around you.

UK vape tax & future regulations

Currently, vapes in the UK are regulated under the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations (TRPR), which adopted the EU’s TPD law. These rules limit nicotine strength (20mg max), tank size (2ml), and e-liquid bottles (10ml max).

From October 2026, the UK will introduce the new vape tax. This means e-liquids will become more expensive depending on nicotine strength:

• 0mg nicotine: around £1 per 10ml.

• Low strength (up to 10mg): around £2 per 10ml.

• High strength (11mg–20mg): around £3 per 10ml.

This vape tax is designed to discourage youth uptake while still keeping vapes cheaper than cigarettes.

Another big change is the upcoming disposable vape ban (2025). The UK government confirmed that single-use vapes like Elf Bar and Lost Mary will be banned to tackle the rise of underage vaping and reduce environmental waste. Smokers looking to switch will still have access to refillable pod kits, pens, and e-liquids.

Future regulations may also include plain packaging, flavour restrictions, and stricter marketing rules, but at the same time, the NHS continues to promote vaping as a quitting aid for smokers.

FAQs About Vaping (UK Specific)

How much does a vape cost in UK?

The price of a vape in the UK depends on the type of device:

• Disposable vapes: Usually £5–£8 each, with popular brands like Elf Bar or Lost Mary giving up to 600 puffs.

• Pod kits / vape pens: Starter kits cost around £15–£30, and replacement pods or coils cost £3–£10.

• E-liquids: A 10ml bottle (regulated size under UK TPD law) costs £3–£5, depending on nicotine strength and brand.

Even with the new UK vape tax (2026), vaping is still expected to be cheaper than smoking cigarettes, which can cost £12–£15 per pack.

How many puffs are in a Prefilled Pod vape?

Most prefilled pod vapes in the UK are limited by law to 2ml of e-liquid and 20mg nicotine strength. On average, that equals about 500–6000 puffs per device.

This is roughly the same as 40–100 cigarettes, depending on how heavily you vape. Some brands advertise more, but they must stay within the TPD regulations.

Keep in mind that disposable vapes are being banned in 2025 in the UK, so refillable pod kits will replace them.

Can vaping help quit smoking?

Yes. According to the NHS and Public Health England, vaping is one of the most effective tools for quitting smoking. Studies show that vaping can double the chances of quitting successfully compared to using patches or gum.

Can I travel with my vape in UK flights?

Yes, you can travel with your vape on UK flights, but there are strict rules:

• Carry-on only: Vapes, pods, and batteries must be packed in your hand luggage. They are not allowed in checked luggage due to fire risk.

• E-liquids: Follow liquid restrictions—bottles must be 100ml or less and fit in a clear 1-litre plastic bag. Since UK law limits bottles to 10ml, you can carry several.

• Using a vape on planes: Strictly banned. You cannot vape inside the aircraft.

• Airports: Some airports (like Heathrow, Gatwick) may have designated vaping areas, but many treat vaping like smoking and only allow it outdoors.

Always check the airline’s rules before flying. Some airlines are stricter than others.

Final Words

Vaping has quickly become one of the most popular alternatives to smoking in the UK, giving people a way to enjoy nicotine without burning tobacco. In this guide, we covered the basics of vaping, from how a vape works and what’s inside, to the different types of devices, laws, and tips for beginners.

While studies like Public Health England’s report suggest that vaping is far less harmful than smoking, it is not completely risk-free. The best way to use vaping is as a tool for smokers who want to quit cigarettes, not as a new habit for non-smokers. Always stay mindful of the UK laws, the legal age limit (18+), and where vaping is allowed.

The UK market is evolving with new rules like the upcoming disposable vape ban and vape tax. By choosing the right device and using it responsibly, adult smokers can make vaping a safer and more affordable choice compared to smoking.