How to Use a Vape Kit for the First Time (Step-by-Step)

Are you thinking about switching to vaping, but are not sure how to vape? You're not alone, and the good news is, getting started is way easier than you might think. Whether you're looking for the best vape to quit smoking or you're just vape-curious, this beginner-friendly guide has got you covered.

We’ll break down the basics in plain, no-fluff language. From ultra-easy disposable vapes (just inhale and go) to more flexible refillable vape kits (great if you want to save money in the long run), we’ll help you figure out what suits you best.

You’ll learn how to pick the right device, how to use it safely, and even how to maintain it, no technical skills required. By the end, you’ll feel confident enough to take that first puff and actually enjoy it. If you're eager to get started, check out our full range of beginner-friendly vape kits, perfect for vaping for the first time.

Let's begin with a step-by-step guide so readers can easily understand how to use a vape.

Before you get into how to vape, it helps to know what kind of vape suits you best, because trust me, the one you pick really shapes your experience. If you’re just starting out, big puff vapes like the PIXL 6000 or Hayati Pro Max Plus are the easiest way in. They’re ready right out of the box, pre-filled, and no buttons or setup needed. Just take a puff and you’re good. Super handy if you’re switching from smoking or just want something straightforward.

Feeling a bit more adventurous? The best refillable vape for beginners like Uwell Caliburn G3 Pro and Voopoo Drag X2 give you more say in things like flavour, nicotine strength, and overall feel. You’ll need to fill them up, change the coil now and then, and keep the battery charged, but they’re cheaper over time and give a more personalized vape. Still unsure? Try a disposable first. Once you’re comfortable, moving to a refillable feels like a natural next step.

Setting up your vape depends on the type you have, such as a puff bar or refillable e-cig. Don’t worry, it’s easy! If you’ve got a ready-to-use vape, all you need to do is take it out of the box and start vaping. No charging, no filling, no buttons, just inhale and enjoy.

For reusable vapes, you’ll usually find a few parts inside: a pod or tank to hold the e-liquid, a coil that heats it up, a battery, and a charging cable. Some kits turn on when you breathe in, while others have a button to press. Some even let you adjust airflow to make your vape smoother or stronger. If you want something simple but refillable, try pod kits like the Gotek X or Gotek Pro, perfect for beginners looking for an easy setup.

Most single-use vapes come prefilled, so there’s nothing to fill; just open the package and start vaping. But some big puff disposables, like the Instapod 6000, now include a refillable pod system. Just click in the pod, and it automatically refills. If you're unsure, check the user manual; it’s usually very straightforward.

For refillable pod systems, you’ll find either a top-fill, side-fill or bottom-fill design. Gently open the fill port (usually under a rubber flap), and add a 50/50 VG/PG e-liquid, perfect for mouth-to-lung vaping. Avoid overfilling, and let the vape sit for 5–10 minutes so the coil can soak up the liquid (called priming the coil). Wondering what strength to choose? If you’re quitting cigarettes, go for 10mg or 20mg nic salt, depending on how much you smoked.

Most no-maintenance vapes come ready to go, so no charging is needed. But some high-puff disposables (like 4000-puff vapes or more) are now rechargeable. These use a USB Type-C port, and charging usually takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Just plug it in, wait a bit, and you’re good to vape again. Remember, once the e-liquid runs out, you’ll still need to throw it away properly according to the UK's laws on disposing of disposable vapes.

If you’ve got a refillable e-cigarettes, you’ll find a USB-C cable in the box. Most kits have a small light or screen that shows when the battery’s low or full. Quick tip: Always use the original charger and unplug once it’s fully charged. This helps protect your battery and keeps things safe. Looking for an easy, fast-charging vape option? Try the OXVA Xlim Pro, great for beginners and lasts all day.

Knowing how to inhale a vape for beginners can make a huge difference in your experience if it's your first time vaping. Most disposable vapes use a mouth-to-lung (MTL) style, where you take a gentle puff because puff bars are inhale-activated, kind of like smoking a cigarette. This makes the switch from smoking to vaping much easier for many beginners.

With refillable vape kits, you often get the option to vape mouth-to-lung (mtl) or direct-to-lung (DTL). MTL means you draw the vapor into your mouth first, then breathe it into your lungs. DTL is a deeper inhale straight into your lungs, like taking a big breath. These kits are inhale-activated or button-activated, and some vapes give both options. So, don't worry about inhaling the first puff, and choosing your vaping style matters.

If you’re new, start slow, avoid pulling too hard or fast, which can lead to vape coughing or throat irritation. Also, be mindful of your nicotine strength; too high can cause discomfort. Want to enjoy vaping without coughing or irritation? Learning the difference between MTL vs DTL vaping will help you find your perfect style.

If you’re wondering how to use a vape mod or an adjustable vape kit, here’s what you need to know. Compact vapes come ready to use with no settings to adjust, just unpack and start vaping right away.

But with customisable vapes, many devices let you adjust wattage or voltage to find the vape that suits you best. A good tip is to start low and slowly increase the power until you get the perfect mix of flavour and cloud size. Plus, most adjustable vape kits have airflow control, so you can customize how tight or loose your draw feels.

You don’t have to change these settings if you don’t want to, but adjusting wattage and airflow gives you more control over your vaping experience, whether it’s richer flavour or bigger clouds you’re after. Explore our collection of adjustable wattage vape kits, like the popular Voopoo Drag X2, designed for easy control and great performance.

Taking good care of your vape is essential for the best experience and to make your electronic cigarette last longer. For disposable vaping devices, use them until they’re empty, then recycle or dispose of them properly. To stay safe and avoid damage, keep them away from heat and direct sunlight. If you’re using refillable vaping kits, regular cleaning is a must. Wipe down the mouthpiece and clean the tank often to stop any sticky residue from building up. Don’t forget to replace your coil every week or whenever you notice the flavour fading, that keeps your vape tasting fresh. Also, always store your device upright to prevent leaks and use the right e-liquid designed for your kit to avoid issues.

Following these simple vape maintenance tips helps you enjoy smoother draws, better flavour, and a longer-lasting vape. Are you still confused about how to use a vape pen for the first time? The process is the same as discussed above.

After learning how to vape for the first time, avoiding common beginner vape mistakes can make your vaping journey much smoother and more enjoyable from the start. If you’re using a disposable e-cig, one of the biggest mistakes is taking hard or fast inhales, which often leads to coughing. Also, remember that most disposables come precharged; using the wrong charger or cable can damage your device.

For those with refillable e-cigs, picking a high nicotine level for sub-ohm vaping can cause harsh hits and throat irritation. Another common error is forgetting to prime the coil before use, which can give you a burnt taste and shorten the coil’s lifespan. Overfilling your pod or tank can also cause leaks and spills, making a mess and wasting e-liquid. If you follow these simple tips, you’ll enjoy a smooth, hassle-free vaping experience from day one.

You’ve now got the essential steps to how to vape confidently, whether with disposable or refillable vape kits. I recommend trying both types to find what suits your style best. Don’t forget to explore different flavours, vaping styles, and nicotine levels to make your experience truly enjoyable. Ready to take the next step? Browse our Explore All Vape Kits, and if you need any help, feel free to contact us. Happy vaping!