Complete Guide: How to Start Vaping with Confidence

Congratulations! You have decided to learn about vaping. It is one of the best tools to quit tobacco. This guide is here to explain the "how" and the "why" without unnecessary jargon, so you can confidently get your first device and your first e-liquids.



1. Anatomy of your future electronic cigarette

Before buying, it is essential to understand how the parts fit together. A starter kit consists of two main parts:

  • The battery (or mod box): it's the engine. It provides the power.

    • Built-in battery: easy, you recharge via USB (like a phone). Ideal for beginners.

    • Accus (removable batteries): for more advanced vapers who want to be able to change batteries without waiting for a recharge.

  • The clearomizer (the tank): it's the upper part. It contains the liquid and the coil.

  • The coil (the heart of the system): it's a small metal cylinder containing cotton and a heating wire. It’s what turns the liquid into vapor.

    • Note: it wears out! Plan to change it about every 2 weeks. If you taste a "hot" or "burnt" flavor, it's a sign you need to replace it.

2. The e-liquid: your personalized fuel

The liquid is what will determine your satisfaction. It rests on two pillars:

The nicotine level

This is the number 1 success factor. If the level is too low, you will experience cravings. If it is too high, you will cough.

  • 12 to 18 mg/ml: for smokers of more than a pack a day.

  • 6 to 9 mg/ml: for moderate smokers (10-15 cigarettes).

  • 3 mg/ml: for light smokers or the end of quitting.

Note on nicotine salts: if you have a sensitive throat but need a lot of nicotine, ask for "nicotine salts." They are much smoother on the throat.

You can also use our calculator to help you make your choice!

Flavor choice

Don't look for the exact taste of your current cigarette (combustion is not reproduced in vapor).

  • Classic flavors: tobacco taste, ideal for not feeling out of place.

  • Fruity/menthol flavors: very popular because they "break" the cigarette memory and make vaping more enjoyable.

  • The gourmands: flavors that remind you of your favorite dessert, your childhood, or your little guilty pleasures.

3. Understanding the PG/VG ratio (the base mix)

All liquids indicate a ratio, for example 50/50 or 70/30.

  • PG (Propylene Glycol): thins the liquid, enhances the "hit" (throat sensation), and carries the flavors.

  • VG (Vegetable Glycerin): thickens the liquid and produces dense, smooth vapor.

  • PG sensitivity: some people have a slight sensitivity to PG which can cause a dry cough or irritation.

    • The sign: you cough with every puff even after 2 days of vaping.

    • The solution: switch to a liquid with more VG (e.g., 30PG / 70VG ratio). The vape will be much smoother and less "harsh" on your throat.

4. Safety: vape with peace of mind

Vaping is a safe electronic device if you follow these three golden rules:

  1. Priming (crucial): when installing a new coil, pour 3-4 drops of liquid on the visible cotton, install it, fill the tank, and wait 10 minutes before vaping. This prevents burning the dry cotton.

  2. Transport: if your model has removable batteries (accus), never put them alone in a pocket or bag. Always use a silicone case or plastic box to prevent contact with metal objects (keys, coins).

  3. Maintenance: once a week, wipe the inside of the mouthpiece with a paper towel to remove vapor condensation.

5. Set the power (watts)

Most modern devices adjust automatically. Here's how not to make a mistake:

  • Check your coil: the ideal power range is always engraved on it (e.g., 15W - 25W).

  • Stay in the zone: if you set 40W on a coil rated for 20W, you will burn it instantly.

  • The perfect setting: start at the minimum of the indicated range (here 15W) and increase by 1W increments until the temperature and vapor volume suit you.

6. DIY: making your own liquid (savings and pleasure)

Once you know your tastes, DIY (Do It Yourself) is very simple.

  • The concept: buy a large bottle of neutral base, add nicotine "boosters," then drops of concentrated flavoring.

  • Intensity and VG: the more VG your base contains (for smoothness), the more flavoring you need to add. VG is dense and somewhat "traps" flavors. Generally, add 15% flavoring in a 50/50 base, and up to 20% in a VG-rich base.

  • Steeping time: unlike ready-to-use liquids, DIY needs resting (like a good wine). Count 3 days for fruits, 2 weeks for dessert flavors (vanilla, biscuit), and over 3 weeks for classic flavors (tobacco).

Use our DIY calculator to help you succeed with your first mixes!

7. "Pro" tips for your beginnings

  • Stay hydrated: water vapor absorbs moisture. It's normal to have a slightly dry mouth at first. Drink an extra glass of water per day.

  • Type of inhalation: don't take short, hard puffs like with a cigarette. Inhale gently and longer (3 to 5 seconds). This is the secret to avoid coughing and get nice vapor.

  • Indirect inhalation (MTL): to start, look for equipment called "MTL" (Mouth To Lung). This draw is the closest to a cigarette (from mouth to lungs).

  • Direct inhalation (DTL): this is the "hookah" draw. You inhale the vapor directly into the lungs. This produces a lot of vapor and requires very low nicotine levels (often 3 mg/ml maximum) to avoid throat irritation. It's a lighter experience.

Congratulations, You are now ready for your first visit to the store! Take your time, try the flavors, and remember that the first days are an adjustment phase. Feel free to contact us at support@vapevo.com if you need any additional information, we will be happy to assist you!