Starting something new is always exciting. Vaping is no different. If you are switching from smoking or trying vaping for the first time, it can feel a little confusing.

Many beginners make a few small mistakes that can spoil the experience. The good news is these mistakes are easy to avoid once you know about them.

In this simple guide, we’ll cover the most common vaping mistakes by beginners and show you how to enjoy vaping safely and smoothly.

If you are looking for beginner-friendly vape kits and e-liquids, explore trusted options on Vape Kit UK.

1. Choosing the Wrong Vape Device

One of the first mistakes beginners make is choosing the wrong vape device.

There are many types of vapes—prefilled, pod kits, vape pens, and advanced mods. This choice can feel overwhelming at first.

What can go wrong:
You may buy a device that is too complicated, too powerful, or not suited to your needs.

How to avoid this:
If you are new to vaping, start with a simple pod kit or prefilled vape. These are easy to use and do not require experience.

Explore beginner-friendly vape starter kits that suit your needs.

2. Using the Wrong E-Liquid

Another common mistake is using the wrong e-liquid.

When choosing an e-liquid, consider two things: nicotine strength and VG/PG ratio.

What can go wrong:
Too high nicotine can feel harsh or cause dizziness. Too low nicotine may leave you unsatisfied. The wrong VG/PG ratio can affect throat hit, vapour production, and smoothness.

How to avoid this:

• If you are switching from smoking, start with a nicotine strength around 10 mg to 12 mg.
• For pod kits, a 50/50 VG/PG blend works best.
• For sub-ohm devices, choose high VG e-liquids.

3. Not Priming the Coil

Priming your coil is a step many beginners skip, but it is very important.

Priming means soaking the coil’s cotton with e-liquid before using it.

What can go wrong:
If you do not prime the coil, you will experience a burnt taste and may ruin the coil instantly.

How to avoid this:

• Add a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the coil.
• Fill the tank and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
• This allows the coil to fully soak and prevents burning.

4. Puffing Too Fast

Many beginners puff on their vape too quickly, thinking it is like smoking a cigarette.

Vaping requires a slower approach.

What can go wrong:
If you puff too fast, you can get a dry hit because the coil has not had time to re-saturate with e-liquid.

How to avoid this:

• Take slow, steady puffs.
• Wait a few seconds between puffs to let the coil soak again.

5. Ignoring Battery Safety

Battery safety is very important, especially if you are using larger vape mods.

What can go wrong:
If batteries are mishandled, they can overheat or become dangerous.

How to avoid this:

• Always use the correct charger.
• Never use damaged batteries.
• Do not leave your vape charging overnight.

If you want to avoid battery worries altogether, start with a prefilled vape or closed pod system.

6. Forgetting to Clean the Device

Many beginners forget that a vape device needs regular cleaning.

What can go wrong:
If you do not clean your vape, you may experience poor flavour, leaks, or reduced coil life.

How to avoid this:

• Rinse the tank and mouthpiece with warm water once a week.
• Let them dry completely before use.
• Change coils regularly, usually every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on usage.

7. Using the Wrong Inhalation Technique

Vaping requires a different inhalation technique compared to smoking.

What can go wrong:
If you inhale incorrectly, you may experience coughing or throat irritation.

How to avoid this:
Learn the two main inhalation styles:

• Mouth to Lung (MTL): Draw vapour into your mouth first, then inhale it into your lungs. This style is ideal for beginners and higher nicotine liquids.
• Direct to Lung (DTL): Inhale vapour straight into your lungs. This works best with larger devices and lower nicotine liquids.

8. Not Drinking Enough Water

Vaping can be slightly dehydrating, especially with high PG e-liquids.

What can go wrong:
You may experience a dry mouth or throat.

How to avoid this:
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.

9. Vaping Too Much

It is easy for beginners to vape more than they realise, especially when using nicotine salt e-liquids.

What can go wrong:
Too much nicotine can cause nausea, headache, or dizziness.

How to avoid this:

• Pay attention to how much you are vaping.
• If you feel dizzy or unwell, take a break.
• Adjust your nicotine strength if needed.

10. Giving Up Too Quickly

One of the most common mistakes is giving up too soon.

What can go wrong:
One bad experience, such as a burnt coil or the wrong flavour, may cause beginners to think vaping is not for them.

How to avoid this:

• Be patient.
• Try different flavours and devices.
• Ask for help at your local vape shop or trusted online stores.

For more advice, check our Beginner’s Guide to Vape Starter Kits.

Final Tips for a Better Vaping Experience

To make your vaping journey smooth and enjoyable:

• Start with a simple pod kit or prefilled vape.
• Choose the right nicotine strength and VG/PG ratio.
• Prime your coil and clean your device regularly.
• Take slow puffs and stay hydrated.
• Give yourself time to adjust and explore new options.

If you are ready to start, browse the latest vape starter kits and top e-liquids.