Curious about which vape you should get that’ll actually work with your lifestyle?
Truth be told, most people choose the wrong vape for their lifestyle…and then give up on the whole thing altogether or keep wasting their money on device after device in hopes of finding one that works for them.
The good news is that it’s actually super easy to find the right vape for your specific needs.
What you’ll learn:
- Figuring out your vaping lifestyle
- The types of vaping devices that will actually work
- What e-liquid should you choose for your lifestyle
- Setting the right budget and sticking to it
Figuring Out Your Vaping Lifestyle
Before you even start shopping for a device, it’s important to first consider your lifestyle.
Are you a person who vapes throughout the day? Or do you prefer just a quick puff or two on a break? Maybe you’re someone who only vapes at home? Or in social settings?
Why does this matter?
Because your vaping habits should inform the type of device you get, not the other way around. I’ve lost count of the number of people I see buying the most premium (read: expensive) vape setup, only to realize a few weeks later it’s just not compatible with their lifestyle.
Especially key here… Do you want something that just works out of the box and with no fuss, or do you enjoy fiddling around with settings and customizing?
The Three Types of Vaping Lifestyles
- The On-the-Go Vaper: Always on the move, they need something that’s reliable and portable. Convenience over customizability.
- The Home Enthusiast: They enjoy the ritual and experience. Maintenance and experimentation isn’t a hassle.
- The Social Vaper: Someone who vapes in social situations. The device needs to look good and work well in front of other people. Impressive vapor clouds are a must.
You’ll see from these categories that most people fall under one of the first two, and once you know which type of vaper you are, choosing the right device is super simple.
The Types of Vaping Devices That Will Actually Work
Ok, let’s cut to the chase…
Truth is, you only need to consider three types of devices; everything else is just smoke and mirrors.
Pod Systems: The Perfect Vaping Compromise
Pod systems are currently the most popular devices due to their simplicity, portability, and that they just work for most people.
Ideal for: Beginners, on-the-go vapers, or anyone who just wants hassle-free vaping
The catch? Limited customization and higher costs in the long run for replacement pods
Here’s the thing, though… If you’re someone who just wants to vape without constantly having to think about settings, maintenance, or upgrades, pod systems are a great option.
They’re discrete, easy to use, and you can find quality models from trusted retailers like The Puffin Hut, which offer a great mix of convenience and reliability.
Disposable Vapes: Ultimate Convenience
Disposable vapes are exactly what they say in the tin – you use them and when they’re gone, they’re gone.
Ideal for: Absolute beginners, the social vaper, or anyone who travels regularly
With e-cigarette sales increasing 47% from 2019 to 2023 at retail outlets, disposables are no small part of that growth.
The reality is? These are by far the most expensive option long-term, but require no maintenance at all.
Advanced Mod Systems: For The True Vaping Enthusiasts
The devices you see people puffing massive clouds of vapor out of are the advanced mod systems. They offer complete control over every aspect of the vaping experience.
Ideal for: Experienced vapers who like full customization of their experience
The truth? Unless you’re into the geekier side of vaping, you really don’t need this complexity.
What E-Liquid You Should Be Choosing For Your Lifestyle
This is where most people make their first mistake…
They choose their e-liquid flavor and strength based on what sounds good, not what will work well for their lifestyle.
Nicotine Strength: Importance Of Getting This Right
- Low (3-6mg): Ideal for casual vapers or those coming down from higher strengths
- Medium (12-18mg): A good choice for moderate vapers who want something noticeable but not too strong
- High (18mg+): Intended for heavy former smokers or those who vape infrequently
The biggest mistake most newbies make? Choosing a nicotine strength that’s too high or too low. Best to start in the medium category and adjust up or down from there.
Flavor Categories That Will Actually Work For You
Forget the dozens of exotic flavors out there; instead, focus on these tried-and-true categories:
- Fruit Flavors: The most popular choice, they’re clean, refreshing, and work well throughout the day.
- Menthol/Mint: Gives a clean, cool sensation in the mouth. Perfect for ex-menthol smokers.
- Tobacco Flavors: Great for ex-smokers who need that familiar taste, though most people eventually branch out from here.
The secret? Keep it to 2-3 flavors at most. Too many options and you’ll end up overthinking every puff.
Setting A Budget and Sticking To It
Last topic and one I know some people hate – money.
The vaping industry makes most of its money selling people overpriced starter kits, but you don’t need to drop a small fortune to get going.
The Upfront Costs Vs Ongoing Costs
- Budget: $25-50 for a decent pod system or a disposable multi-pack
- Mid-Range: $50-100 for a premium pod system with extra pods and e-liquids included
- Premium: $100+ for advanced mod systems with multiple batteries and accessories
Truth is, most people are fine with the mid-range.
The real costs come in ongoing expenses: a pod replacement costs $15-25 a week for heavy vapers, e-liquid refills cost $10-15 a week, and coil replacements for refillable devices add another $5-10 a week.
Making The Smart Choice
Ok, finally, what would I actually recommend?
Start with a quality pod system from a trusted retailer, pick 2-3 different e-liquid flavors in medium nicotine strength, and use it for two weeks.
If it’s not for you, then you can look at upgrading or switching styles, but most people who take this approach end up perfectly happy with their initial choice and ultimately save money in the long run.
The Types of Devices and Retailers You Should Avoid
The vape industry has a lot of fly-by-night players…
Avoid devices that have no brand recognition, are priced extremely cheaply, or come with glowing online reviews from users with only a couple of reviews.
As for e-liquids, you should never buy one that has no ingredient list, any unusual coloring (artificial or otherwise), or is markedly cheaper than any of the name brands.
You’re putting things into your body, so don’t be afraid to pay a bit extra for quality products from established companies.
Making Your Decision
Here’s your final action checklist:
- Decide which lifestyle type you are from the sections above
- Decide on a budget for upfront and ongoing costs
- Pick 1-2 devices that suit your needs and are in your budget
- Pick 2-3 e-liquids in the right nicotine strengths
- Use it for two weeks before deciding if it works for you
Don’t get caught up in the analysis paralysis; the perfect vape is the one you actually use on a consistent basis.
Wrapping Things Up
Figuring out which vape you should get for your lifestyle isn’t about picking the most high-tech device, the flashiest vapor clouds, or the coolest flavors.
It’s about being honest with yourself about your needs and picking the tools that match those.
The vaping industry will do its best to sell you on features you don’t need and make the device you need harder than it should be. But the truth is simple: the best vape for you is the one that just works with your lifestyle and leaves you satisfied.
Most importantly… Don’t let fear of making the wrong choice stop you from even getting started. The perfect vape doesn’t exist, but the right one for you does.
