Your First Vape – Welcome!
This beginners guide to vaping is designed specifically for those of you who have never used an e-cigarette (vape) before. Perhaps you have a friend or family member who began vaping and was able to successfully quit smoking cigarettes. If you’ve seen people using small, sleek devices emitting clouds of vapour, you might have wondered what vaping is all about. Whether you’re a smoker seeking a less harmful alternative or simply curious about this growing trend, this guide is designed for you.
Who This Guide Is For
- Adult smokers or ex-smokers looking for a less harmful and more customizable alternative to smoking.
- People interested in learning how vaping works, how to select the right device, and how to vape responsibly.
Anyone seeking a step-by-step breakdown of starting a vaping journey safely, economically, and with minimal confusion.
I’ll begin by stating that vaping has a bit of a learning curve – they will never feel exactly like smoking a cigarette. Putting plastic, glass, or metal in your mouth instead of paper, learning how to refill your tanks, recharging batteries, adjusting voltages, etc. will all be new experiences for you. Don’t worry – it will be worth your time! Like anything you try for the first time, after some practice using your vape, it will become second nature to you.
Second note – E-cigarettes are designed to provide smokers with an alternative to tobacco cigarettes. They are not for children or teenagers, nor are they for non-smokers or pregnant women. At Canada Vapes we take this very seriously and require ID checks for anyone purchasing products from our Online Vape Shop.
1. What Is Vaping—and How Does It Work?
Vaping is the process of inhaling vapourized liquid, known as e-liquid or vape juice, through a battery-powered device. The e-liquid contains a blend of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavourings, and optional nicotine.
How It Works
- Battery Activation: A lithium-ion battery provides the necessary power to the device.
- Coil Heating: The power activates a heating element (coil), which heats the e-liquid.
- Vapour Production: The liquid turns into vapour.
- Inhalation: The user inhales this vapour, which delivers nicotine and flavour without combustion.
Unlike smoking, vaping does not burn tobacco. This eliminates thousands of harmful chemicals typically released through smoke, making vaping a less harmful option, according to studies by Public Health England and other research bodies.
2. Why Some Smokers Switch to Vaping
Thousands of Canadians make the switch from cigarettes to vaping each year. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Reduced Harm: Vaping avoids combustion, which is responsible for the majority of the toxins in cigarettes. Without tar or carbon monoxide, vaping presents a much lower health risk.
- Lower Cost: The average Canadian smoker spends over $300 a month on cigarettes. Vaping, after an initial investment in a starter kit, often costs less than $200/month.
- No Lingering Odour: Vaping doesn’t produce the same lingering smell. Most e-liquids leave behind pleasant scents like fruit, mint, or dessert flavours.
- Flavour Variety: With hundreds of flavours to choose from, vaping offers far more variety and personalization than cigarettes ever could.
- Gradual Nicotine Reduction: Vapers can start at a high nicotine level and gradually reduce it over time, which can assist in quitting nicotine entirely.
- Improved Health and Energy: Many switchers report improved breathing, better taste and smell senses, and increased energy levels within a few weeks of quitting smoking.
3. Understanding Canadian Regulations
Canada has implemented comprehensive vaping regulations to protect public health, especially among youth, while allowing adult smokers access to a potentially safer alternative.
- Nicotine Strength Limits: Health Canada restricts nicotine levels in vape products to a maximum of 20 mg/mL to reduce addiction potential.
- Product Packaging: Vape devices and e-liquids must have child-resistant packaging, clear warning labels, and avoid designs that appeal to minors.
- Age Restrictions: The legal age to purchase vape products varies by province (18 or 19 years old). Vendors must enforce strict age verification procedures both in-store and online.
- Advertising Restrictions: Vape ads are not allowed in public spaces where they could reach minors. Promotion is limited to factual, non-glamorous content.
- Ongoing Review and Enforcement: Health Canada and provincial health agencies monitor vaping trends, inspect retailers, and enforce compliance with the Tobacco and Vaping Products Act (TVPA).
- As of July 2025, a new Federal Tax on vaping will be adopted by Alberta, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Yukon, Ontario, Quebec, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Learn more about new Federal Vape Tax.
Being aware of these regulations ensures you’re vaping legally and responsibly while supporting efforts to keep vaping out of the hands of non-smokers and youth.
Check out our in-depth article to learn more about vaping laws and regulations in All 13 Canadian provinces.
4. A Closer Look: Components of Every Vape Device
Before buying your first vape, it’s important to understand the parts that make it work.
a. Battery
- The power source of your device.
- Measured in milliamp-hours (mAh) – the higher the number, the longer it lasts between charges.
- Some are integrated, while others are removable and require external chargers.
b. Coil
- The heating element that turns liquid into vapour.
- Comes in various resistances: higher ohm coils for mouth-to-lung (MTL), lower ohm coils for direct lung (DL) vaping.
- Needs replacement every 5–10 days, depending on usage and liquid type.
c. Tank or Pod
- The container that holds your e-liquid.
- Pods are usually pre-filled or refillable and easy to swap out.
- Tanks are larger and used on advanced devices.
d. Airflow Control
- Adjusts how much air mixes with the vapour.
- Tighter airflow mimics the pull of a cigarette.
- Looser airflow produces bigger clouds and cooler vapour.
e. Firing Mechanism
- Either draw-activated (automatic) or button-activated.
- Some devices offer both for convenience.
f. Displays and Controls
- More advanced devices have screens showing battery level, wattage, and coil resistance.
- Others keep it simple for beginners.
5. Choosing Your First Vaping Device
Option 1: Disposable Vapes
- Pre-charged and pre-filled.
- Modern disposables boast a Puff Count in ranges from 5K to 50K
- No maintenance, but higher cost per puff.
- Great if you are always on the go and travel a lot.
Option 2: Refillable Pod Systems
- Refillable and rechargeable.
- Use replaceable coils and last longer.
- Popular options include the Vaporesso XROS, SMOK Nord, and Uwell Caliburn series.
- Balance between ease of use and customization.
Option 3: Advanced Box Mods
- High power, full customization.
- Ideal for experienced users who want big clouds and complex flavours.
- Requires understanding of battery safety and coil building (if using rebuildables).
Start with a refillable pod kit if you’re a beginner. It offers excellent value, good performance, and a smooth transition from smoking.
6. What to Look For in Your Device
| Feature | Explanation |
| Ease of Use | Beginners should seek auto-draw or single-button systems. |
| Battery Life | A 1000mAh battery can last most of the day for moderate users. |
| Refillable vs. Pre-filled | Refillable pods are cost-effective and eco-friendly. |
| Coil Life | Devices with easy coil swaps save time and money. |
| Airflow Options | Adjustable airflow means better control over your inhale experience. |
| Portability | Small devices are discreet and fit in pockets or purses. |
7. E-Liquid Choices: Strength & flavour
Choosing Nicotine Strength
| Smoking Habit | Suggested Strength |
| Light (<5 cigs/day) | 3–6 mg/mL |
| Moderate (5–10/day) | 6–12 mg/mL |
| Heavy (10+/day) | 12–20 mg/mL |
Always start a little lower if unsure. Too much nicotine can cause dizziness, nausea, or a sore throat.
What Flavour of E-liquid Should I Use?
Asking this is like asking someone what song should I listen to. E-liquid taste is very subjective, and although I do my best to describe the flavours on the site, everyone has different taste preferences. What I recommend to my customers is to read through the reviews on the website and see what other customers are saying about the e-liquid. Our top 5 most popular tobacco flavours are:
- Canadian Smooth – This e-liquid is a mild and smooth ‘all day vape’ – It has a mild tobacco base with a hint of sweetness. We have sold over 10,000 bottles of Canadian smooth e-liquid across Canada since 2010. Definitely a winner!
- Menthol – We melt pure menthol crystals in our menthol e-liquid. Menthol is a very distinct flavour and is loved by thousands of Canadian vapers.
- Watermelon – Our watermelon e-liquid is a great e-liquid for anyone with a bit of a sweet tooth. Sweet and refreshing watermelon taste will be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth as you vape.
- French Vanilla – Another sweet e-liquid, French Vanilla as smooth and creamy. Not too powerful, just enough to give you that satisfying smooth flavour.
Earl Grey and Double Double – As you can guess, Earl Grey is a very popular tea e-liquid. You can really taste the tea leaves when you vape – a nice, relaxing vape experience. Double Double is our version of the most popular Canadian drink (after beer) – Coffee! This creamy sweet coffee e-liquid will have you relaxing in no time!
8. Frequently Asked Questions
How long will e-liquid last me?
This is another tricky question. Every different model of e-cigarette uses e-liquid at a slightly different rate. The size and length of your draws, and of course, how often you use your e-cigarette, will be big factors in how long the e-liquid lasts. On average, customers have reported using between 2-5ml of e-liquid per day. This means a 30ml bottle should last anywhere from 6-15 days. We offer both 30ml and 120ml e-liquid bottle sizes, with 120ml being a better value price-wise. If you currently smoke a lot — expect a bottle to last about a week. If you smoke less often, a bottle may last several weeks or more!
Will I save money by switching from smoking to vaping?
Absolutely! Despite the new Federal Taxes, vaping is still cheaper than smoking. We have a detailed breakdown on how vaping is still cheaper than smoking in 2025.
Q: How long does a bottle of e-liquid last?
A 60mL bottle generally lasts 15-30 days, depending on device power and frequency of use.
Q: How is vaping different from smoking?
Vaping produces vapour through heat, not combustion. There’s no tar, no ash, and fewer toxins involved.
Q: What’s a good nicotine level to start with?
If you smoke a pack a day, start at 12–20 mg/mL. You can reduce gradually once cravings ease.
Q: Will it help me quit smoking?
Many people have used vaping to successfully quit smoking. Consistency and proper setup are key.
09. Safety Tips for Beginners
- Always charge with the provided cable.
- Keep e-liquids away from children and pets.
- Replace coils every 1–2 weeks to avoid a burnt taste.
- Never leave your device charging overnight.
- Store liquids at room temperature, out of sunlight.
- Use trusted Canadian vape retailers for safe, tested products.
10. First-Time Setup Checklist
- Purchase a beginner-friendly starter kit.
- Select a nicotine strength that matches your needs.
- Charge the device fully before first use.
- Fill your pod or tank carefully (don’t overfill).
- Let your device sit for 10 minutes before vaping.
- Take slow, gentle puffs to avoid coughing.
- Monitor the taste – replace coils when flavour fades.
- Contact support if you’re unsure about anything.
11. Canada Vapes Is Here to Help
Since 2010, Canada Vapes has been a trusted partner for both new and experienced vapers. We offer:
- Toll-Free Support Line: 1-844-286-VAPE
- Quick Email Support: We answer within one business day
- Comprehensive Guides: Learn online anytime through our Blog
- Starter Bundle Deals: Everything you need to get started
We’re not just a store—we’re your community, offering personalized help at every stage of your vaping journey.
12. Final Thoughts
Vaping can be a rewarding switch for adult smokers looking to escape the grip of combustible tobacco. With the right device, e-liquid, and mindset, you can reduce harm, improve your wellbeing, and enjoy a more flavourful and customizable alternative to smoking.
Take your time, experiment, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your journey to a smoke-free future starts here.
Need help getting started? Contact us today or visit CanadaVapes.com to explore our beginner-friendly vape kits and e-liquids. We’re here to help you succeed—one puff at a time.
