A vape, also called an e-cigarette or vape kit, is a small device that heats a liquid to create a vapour that people inhale. Unlike traditional cigarettes, a vape doesn’t burn tobacco. Instead, it uses a battery, coil, and e-liquid (often called vape juice) to deliver nicotine and flavour. This makes it one of the most popular alternatives to smoking in the UK.

In the past few years, vaping has become especially popular in the UK. Many smokers have switched because vapes are often seen as less harmful than smoking, more affordable, and available in a huge range of flavours and nicotine strengths. According to Public Health England and the NHS, vaping can help people quit smoking and reduce health risks compared to cigarettes.

With the UK disposable vape ban in June 2025, single-use devices such as Elf Bar and Lost Mary are no longer sold in shops. As a result, alternatives to disposable vapes have taken centre stage. The most common choice today is prefilled pod vapes, which are compact, easy to use, and more eco-friendly. Popular pod systems from brands like Hayati Vapes, Geekbar, and Fumot are now leading the market, offering a smoother transition for those moving away from disposables.

This guide will explain what a vape is, the different types of vapes in 2025, and how devices like pod kits, vape pens, and box mods are shaping the future of vaping in the UK.

What Is a Vape Device?

A vape device (sometimes called a vape kit or e-cigarette) is made up of a few main parts that work together to turn liquid into vapour. Understanding these vape components helps new vapers know how a vape works and which device might be right for them.

Battery / Power Source

The battery is the power source of every vape. It sends energy to the heating element, known as the coil, which then turns e-liquid into vapour.

• In small devices like pod vapes, batteries are usually built-in and rechargeable.

• In advanced devices like box mods, batteries can be removable and more powerful.

In the UK, most starter vape kits use simple built-in batteries, making them easy for beginners.

Pod or Tank (Prefilled or Refillable)

The pod or tank is the part that holds the e-liquid.

• Prefilled pods come with liquid already inside, often in popular flavours, and are replaced once empty.

• Refillable pods or tanks let you fill them with any vape juice you like, giving more flexibility.

Since the disposable vape ban in 2025 in Uk, prefilled pod vapes have become the most popular choice because they are just as convenient as disposables but more eco-friendly. Brands like Hayati Vapes and Fumot now offer wide ranges of pod kits with multiple flavour options.

Coil / Heating Element

The coil is a small piece of metal wire wrapped in cotton that heats up when powered by the battery. The cotton soaks up the e-liquid, and when the coil gets hot, it creates vapour.

• Coils need replacing regularly (every 1–2 weeks for heavy users).

• Different coil types affect flavour, vapour production, and how strong the throat hit feels.

For beginners in the UK, pod kits with pre-installed coils are the easiest option since they require no setup.

E-liquid (PG, VG, Nicotine, Flavourings)

The e-liquid (also called vape juice) is what turns into vapour. It usually contains:

• PG (Propylene Glycol): carries flavour and provides throat hit.

• VG (Vegetable Glycerin): produces vapour clouds and adds smoothness.

• Nicotine: optional, available in different strengths (up to 20mg in the UK under TPD law).

• Flavourings: wide range of choices like fruit, menthol, or tobacco.

The balance of PG/VG and nicotine strength determines the overall vaping experience.

Type of Vape Devices

Disposable Vapes 

For many years, disposable vapes were the most popular choice for beginners in the UK. Small, cheap, and easy to use, they came prefilled with e-liquid and required no charging or refilling. Popular brands like bloody bar and randm 9000 quickly became household names because they offered strong flavours and convenience.

However, with the UK disposable vape ban in June 2025, these single-use devices are now being phased out. The ban was introduced to reduce plastic waste, cut down on youth vaping, and promote more sustainable alternatives.

Today, many former disposable users are switching to disposable alternatives such as prefilled pod vapes. These pod kits work in a similar way—compact and hassle-free—but they are rechargeable and reusable, making them both eco-friendly and more cost-effective.

Prefilled Pod Vapes – The Best Alternative to Disposables

What Are Prefilled Pod Vapes?

Prefilled pod vapes are compact devices that come with pods already filled with e-liquid. Instead of throwing the whole device away like a disposable, you simply recharge the battery and replace the used pod with a new one.

They are designed to give the same smooth experience as disposable vapes, strong flavour, instant nicotine hit, and no messy refilling—while being more cost-effective in the long run. This makes them a top choice for both beginners and experienced vapers in the UK.

Why Pod Vapes Are Replacing Disposables in the UK

After the disposable vape ban in the UK (June 2025), many smokers and vapers needed a convenient and legal option. Prefilled pods quickly became the most popular choice because:

• Cheaper long-term – You only replace the pods, not the whole device.

• Eco-friendly – Less plastic waste compared to single-use disposables.

• Compliant with UK vaping laws – Fully aligned with TPD regulations.

• Same flavour and nicotine satisfaction – Just like disposables, they deliver strong flavour and smooth throat hits.

For anyone searching for the best alternatives to disposable vapes in the UK, pod kits are now the clear answer.

Popular Pod Vape Brands in the UK (2025)

In 2025, several vape brands in the UK are leading the pod system market with innovative, long-lasting options:

• Hayati Vapes – Known for bold flavours and high-capacity pods such as the Hayati Pro Ultra 25000 puffs. These kits give a long-lasting disposable-like experience but in a rechargeable format.

• Fumot Vapes – Famous for their RandM Fumot T9000, which delivers a strong disposable-style hit with the convenience of a pod system.

• Geekbar Pods & Geekbar Pulse – Trusted brand in the UK, offering sleek pod kits that are beginner-friendly and widely available.

These pod vape brands are quickly becoming the go-to choice for UK vapers who previously relied on Elf Bar and Lost Mary disposables.

Vape Pens & Refillable Kits (Still Popular)

Vape pens remain one of the most widely used devices in the UK, especially for beginners who want something simple but more flexible than disposables. They are slim, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them ideal for everyday use.

Unlike prefilled pods, vape pens usually come with a refillable tank that can be filled with bottled e-liquids of your choice. This means you get more control over your flavours, nicotine strength, and vaping style.

Why Vape Pens Are Still Popular in the UK

• Beginner-friendly – Straightforward design with just a fire button or auto-draw system.

• Refillable & reusable – Use bottled e-liquids, which are cheaper than prefilled pods in the long run.

• Wide flavour options – Thousands of UK e-liquid flavours available, from tobacco to fruity blends.

• TPD-compliant – All tanks and pods are limited to 2ml capacity in the UK, keeping them regulated and safe.

Examples of Popular Vape Pens in the UK

• Aspire PockeX – A classic all-in-one vape pen that is simple to use and delivers reliable flavour.

• Innokin Endura Series – Known for smooth draws and strong nicotine delivery, perfect for ex-smokers.

• SMOK Vape pen V2 Kit – A refillable pod-pen hybrid offering both portability and power.

These refillable vape kits are especially popular with vapers who want more variety and lower running costs compared to buying pods or disposables.

Advanced Vape Mods & Box Mods (For Enthusiasts)

For experienced vapers and hobbyists, vape mods and box mods are the ultimate choice. Unlike disposables, pod kits, or vape pens, these devices are designed for those who want full control over their vaping experience.

Mods allow users to adjust settings like wattage, voltage, and airflow, making them ideal for cloud-chasing, experimenting with different coil builds, and enjoying a highly customised vape.

Why Vape Mods Appeal to Enthusiasts

• Customisation – Control your wattage, coil type, and airflow for a tailored experience.

• High performance – Produce bigger clouds and stronger flavour compared to basic vape kits.

• Durability – Built with larger batteries, meaning longer usage time between charges.

• Versatility – Can be paired with different tanks, coils, and e-liquids.

However, mods are not recommended for beginners. They require some knowledge of Ohm’s law, coil resistance, and safe battery use. For those ready to take vaping seriously, mods open up endless possibilities.

How to Choose the Right Vape in the UK (2025 Guide)

Finding the best vape in the UK depends on your experience level and what you’re looking for in a device. Since disposable vapes were banned in June 2025, many people are now exploring alternatives like pod kits, refillable pens, and vape mods. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.

If You Loved Disposables → Switch to Prefilled Pod Kits

If you liked the simplicity and flavour variety of disposables, then prefilled pod vapes are the best alternative. They offer the same strong nicotine hit, compact size, and flavourful experience, but with the benefit of being rechargeable and more eco-friendly.

Popular 2025 options:

• Hayati Pro Ultra 25000 puffs (prefilled pods)

• Fumot RandM T9000 pod kit

• Lost mary Nera 30k

If You Want Flexibility → Go for Refillable Vape Pens

For people who want to try different e-liquids and save money in the long run, refillable vape pens are a great choice. They’re easy to use but give you more control compared to pods. You can choose from thousands of UK e-liquid flavours and adjust your nicotine strength.

Popular UK vape pens:

• Elf Bar ELFX Refillable Pod Kit

• Voopoo Argus G2 Mini

If You Want Customisation → Mods & Box Mods

For advanced users, vape mods and box mods provide the highest level of control. You can adjust wattage, airflow, and even use rebuildable coils if you’re into hobby vaping. These devices are designed for cloud-chasing and creating a truly personalised vape.

Popular mod brands: Smok, Vaporesso, Voopoo

FAQs

Are disposables still legal in the UK?

No. From June 2025, disposable vapes were officially banned in the UK due to concerns about youth vaping and environmental waste. While some old stock may still be around, retailers are now focused on refillable kits and prefilled pod vapes as legal alternatives.

What’s the best alternative to disposables?

The best replacement for disposables is prefilled pod kits. They offer the same convenience and strong flavour but are rechargeable and eco-friendly. Popular options include Hayati pods, Geekbar pod kits, and Fumot Brand.

How much does a pod kit cost in the UK?

A starter pod kit usually costs £5–£25, while replacement pods (packs of 2–4) cost around £6–£12 depending on the brand. This makes pod systems cheaper in the long run compared to buying disposables every few days.

Do pod vapes hit like disposables?

Yes. Most pod vapes use nicotine salt e-liquids, which provide the same smooth throat hit and fast nicotine delivery as disposables. Brands like Hayati and Lost mary Neraare specifically designed to mimic the disposable-style experience while staying compliant with UK vape laws.

Are vape pens still popular in the UK?

Yes. Vape pens like the Aspire PockeX and Innokin Endura are still widely used, especially among beginners who want a refillable option with more flexibility in flavours and nicotine strengths.

What’s the difference between pod vapes and vape pens?

• Pod vapes → prefilled or refillable pods, small size, disposable-style experience.

• Vape pens → refillable tanks, bigger e-liquid capacity, more flexibility in choosing flavours and nicotine.

Both are great, but pod vapes are easier, while pens offer more variety.

Can I travel with a vape in the UK?

Yes, you can carry vapes and e-liquids on flights within the UK and internationally, but they must be in your hand luggage. E-liquids must follow the 100ml liquid rule at airport security. Always check the vaping laws of your destination country.

Which vape is best for beginners in the UK?

If you’re new to vaping in 2025, the best beginner vapes are prefilled pod kits like Hayati Pro Ultra or Geekbar Pods. They’re easy, discreet, and give a similar experience to disposables.