How Much Does Vaping Cost? UK Running Costs Explained

18th Apr 2024

Vaping products are for adult smokers and existing vapers only. Vaping is not risk-free. Not suitable for non-smokers or anyone under 18.

The cost of vaping depends on the type of device you choose, how much you vape and the e-liquid you use. This guide breaks down the one-off and regular costs, so you know what to expect before you buy.

The Device

Your first purchase is the device itself. A refillable and rechargeable starter kit usually comes with everything you need to begin: the device, a pod or tank, a coil and a charging cable. A well-made device should last between 3 and 12 months, depending on how carefully it is looked after and its build quality. After that first outlay, the regular costs are e-liquid, coils and replacement pods or tanks.

E-Liquids

Multiple E-liquids with Vaping Device E-liquid is the main ongoing cost. A 10ml bottle will fill a 2ml tank or pod, the maximum size allowed in the UK, five times. How long a bottle lasts depends on how much you vape and on your device, as larger, more powerful devices use e-liquid faster than small pod kits.

Shortfill e-liquids come in larger 50ml and 100ml bottles with no nicotine. You can vape them nicotine-free or add a nicotine shot for a low nicotine strength.

Since 1 October 2026, e-liquids sold in the UK carry Vaping Products Duty of £2.20 per 10ml, plus VAT.

Coils

The coil is the part of your vape that heats up to turn e-liquid into vapour. On average a coil needs replacing every week or two, though this varies with how often you vape and the type of device. Coils are usually sold in packs, and priming a new coil properly before use helps it last. You will know it is time to change it when the flavour fades or tastes burnt. See our coils range for compatible options.

Pods or Tanks

A pod or tank holds the e-liquid and the coil. Under UK rules, no tank or pod can hold more than 2ml of e-liquid. Many pod kits use replacement pods with a built-in coil, so the pod is replaced as a whole, while tanks use separate replaceable coils and can last much longer.

Batteries and Charging

Most modern devices have a built-in battery that you charge with a USB-C cable. Devices that use removable batteries will need a new battery from time to time, typically every few months for smaller devices and longer for higher-quality models.

Keeping Running Costs Down

Choose a refillable device, so you only replace e-liquid, coils and pods.
Look after your coils by priming them and not running the tank dry.
Pick a device that suits how you vape. Pod kits typically use less e-liquid than sub-ohm kits, so they usually cost less to run.