How to Switch to Vaping
For many, stopping smoking is the big change that they want to see for themselves, however, with so many temptations around it’s easy to slip back into bad habits. The NHS have previously endorsed e-cigarettes, highlighting their benefits as an alternative to smoking traditional cigarettes. If you’re planning on living without cigarettes, vaping could be the key to staying on the right track.
If you’re looking for a reason to start vaping, here’s what you need to know.
What is an e-cigarette?
An e-cigarette is a device that allows you to inhale nicotine through vapour production, rather than through smoke. There is a wide range of e-cigarette models available, from starter kits to more advanced devices. They work by heating a liquid made up of nicotine, flavourings and propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine.
Is it going to be like smoking my usual cigarettes?
An e-cigarette is as close as you will get to the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. Everything from the design of the e-cig, to the routine of ‘taking a hit’ through the mouth, is designed to replicate the feel of a real cigarette. Thanks to the wide range of e-liquids available, you can even find a liquid that matches what you would normally smoke. From tobacco and menthol flavours to more adventurous fruit and sweeter liquids, there’s something to suit all tastes.
Is vaping really that much better for me?
The vapour that you smoke through an e-cigarette does not contain any tar or carbon monoxide, two of the most harmful elements of traditional cigarette smoking. Although we cannot say that e-cigarettes are harm free, vaping carries a small fraction of the risk and can help you on the way to becoming nicotine free.
How do I get started?
We advise picking up an e-cig starter kit that contains everything you need to start vaping. It’s important to choose an e-liquid that closely matches how much you smoke when using traditional cigarettes. Nicotine levels go from 0 mg to around 18 mg, if you were a heavy smoker and looking to use vaping as a way to help you quit, a higher nicotine level is recommended. For lighter smokers we recommend the lowest strength, moving up if you need more of a ‘hit’. Keep your e-cigarette charged and have a spare battery on hand if you find yourself caught short when you’re out and about. Having this backup will ensure you don’t slip into old habits! Follow the instructions on your vape kit and try and mimic your normal smoking routine as much as possible. Whether this means only vaping on assigned work breaks and lunchtimes or vaping throughout the day - you will know what’s right for you.
Will I save money if I switch to vaping?
Alongside health concerns, one of the biggest reasons for quitting smoking at this time of year is the money you can save. Typically, when you consider the average cost of vaping versus smoking traditional cigarettes, e-cigarettes come out the cheapest. To work out how you can save, take a look at the NHS Cost Calculator.
If I switch, can I vape anywhere?
Although the restrictions in place for vaping aren’t as strict as those for smoking cigarettes, there are places in the UK where vaping is prohibited. Most transport providers have banned the use of e-cigarettes, including trains and planes. The majority of hospitals and sports stadiums have also introduced a ban on vaping. There are some exceptions to the rules if you’re not 100% you should always double check before you start vaping.
Taking the first step is always the hardest, but with over 2.9 million vapers in the UK and smoking numbers at a record low, vaping could offer the support you need to quit for good.
