Beginner vape guide: pods, mods and refillable options
With the UK ban on disposable vapes now in full effect, thousands of new and returning users are wondering: what now? For years, disposables offered convenience with zero learning curve — but they came with high waste, questionable safety, and rising costs. Now that they're gone, the vape market has shifted back to its roots: refillables, pods, and mods.
For first-time users, the variety of vape devices can feel overwhelming. But don't worry — this guide breaks it all down, helping you choose a vape device that suits your lifestyle, budget, and goals.
Understanding your options
Let’s look at the three main types of vape devices now dominating the market in 2025:
- Pod systems: compact, user-friendly, and available in closed (pre-filled) or open (refillable) versions. Great for smooth nicotine delivery with minimal setup.
- Refillable kits: typically pen-style or small box devices with swappable coils and refillable tanks. They offer more freedom in flavour and nicotine strength.
- Mods: advanced box-shaped devices with powerful batteries, full control over wattage, airflow, and temperature. Designed for experienced users chasing big clouds or tailored throat hits.
Why disposables were banned
Disposables flooded the UK market with flashy branding and sweet flavours — but they came at a cost. High nicotine strengths, underage use, and growing environmental waste led to intense scrutiny. In June 2025, the UK government officially banned them to protect youth and reduce single-use plastic waste.
For responsible adult users, the ban sparked confusion — but also a major opportunity: to explore better, longer-lasting, and more cost-effective vape options.
Pod systems: for simplicity and portability
Pods are ideal for anyone who values convenience. Closed pods (like Vuse ePods or Elfliq-compatible kits) use pre-filled cartridges — just snap in and vape. Open pod systems allow you to refill the pod with your chosen e-liquid. Both styles are:
- Low maintenance: no settings, no fuss
- Discreet: small enough for pockets or handbags
- Affordable: great entry-level price
However, closed pods limit your flavour options and can be more expensive over time due to cartridge costs.
Refillables: for control and savings
Refillable vape kits give you more control over what you vape — and save money in the long run. They use interchangeable coils and refillable tanks, allowing you to explore:
- Flavour variety: from menthol to mango
- Nicotine strength: choose what suits your journey
- Eco impact: less waste compared to disposables or pods
The learning curve is slightly steeper — you’ll need to replace coils, refill tanks, and clean the device occasionally. But the payoff in flavour, smoothness, and cost-efficiency is well worth it.
Mods: for the adventurous vaper
Mods offer the ultimate vaping experience. With adjustable power, airflow, coil resistance and tank options, they allow total control. Cloud chasers and flavour fans often prefer them. However:
- They’re bulkier and heavier
- They require battery safety knowledge
- They’re not beginner-friendly
Mods shine when you're ready to dive deeper into the vaping world — but they’re not the ideal first step for most users.
How to choose your first vape in 2025
Ask yourself these key questions:
- How often do you plan to vape: daily, occasionally, or socially?
- Do you prefer simplicity or customization?
- What’s your budget for long-term use?
- Are you quitting smoking — or vaping for a different reason?
If you're new to nicotine or quitting cigarettes, start with a simple refillable pod system. If you’re more confident and want better flavour or savings, go for a refillable vape kit. Only choose mods when you’re ready to invest time in learning.
Our recommendation for beginners
At Vape Lounge UK, we recommend open pod systems or compact refillable kits for most beginners. These strike a perfect balance between ease of use and vaping satisfaction — no waste, no gimmicks, just smooth flavour and flexibility.
We also stock a curated range of e-liquids, including nicotine salts for a smoother throat hit, and 50/50 blends ideal for starter kits.
Final thoughts: vaping without the hype
Disposables were never meant to be a long-term solution. The future of vaping in the UK is smarter, cleaner, and more adult-oriented. By choosing the right device, you set yourself up for a better experience — and take real control of your nicotine journey.