What Is a Vape Kit? Complete Beginner Setup Guide

A vape kit is a complete vaping setup that includes a battery, coil, tank or pod, and charger. It’s designed to heat e-liquid into vapor and is used by both beginners and experienced vapers to replace smoking or enjoy flavored nicotine.

If you’re looking to quit smoking, save money over disposables, or finally make sense of all the jargon around pods, coils, and nicotine strengths, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re buying for yourself or someone else, knowing what vape kits are is the first step to making a confident, informed decision.

Premium eJuice has helped thousands of Canadians and Americans transition from smoking to vaping by offering only the most reliable vape kits and the best nicotine products available. With bulk savings, expert advice, and fast shipping, we make your first or next vape kit decision easy and affordable.

If you’re ready for the full breakdown of what comes in a vape kit, how it works, which type is best for your needs, and how to avoid common mistakes, keep reading. This guide covers everything you need to know to start vaping with clarity and confidence.

Vape Kits 101: What They Are and How They Work

If you’re new to vaping, understanding how a vape kit works is like learning the basics of how a car runs. You don’t need to know every part, but the essentials make a big difference when choosing the right one.

Core Components of Every Vape Kit

Every vape kit, no matter how simple or advanced, is made up of a few key parts:

• Battery: This powers your device. It can be built-in (USB-rechargeable) or removable (like 18650s used in advanced kits). Built-in batteries are easier for beginners.
• Tank or Pod: This holds the e-liquid. Pods are typically used in smaller, beginner-friendly devices, while tanks are common in larger, customizable mods.
• Coil: A small wire and cotton assembly that heats the e-liquid into vapor. Coils come in different resistances (measured in ohms), which affect vapor production, throat hit, and nicotine compatibility. They need replacing every 1–2 weeks.
• Charger and Refill Port: Most kits come with a USB-C or micro-USB charger and a fill port on the pod or tank for easy refilling.
• Optional Features: Higher-end kits may include adjustable airflow, digital screens, or buttons to customize wattage and vapor output.

Knowing these parts helps you choose the right kit, not just based on looks, but on performance, nicotine delivery, and user experience.

How a Vape Kit Actually Works

At its core, a vape kit turns liquid into vapor using heat:

1. The battery powers the coil, which heats up
2. The coil vaporizes the e-liquid in the pod or tank
3. You inhale the vapor through the mouthpiece

There are two main activation styles:

• Auto-draw: Just inhale, and the device activates automatically. Ideal for beginners who want simplicity.
• Button-activated: Press a button while inhaling. Often used in more advanced or customizable kits.

Some tech-savvy users appreciate kits with wattage control, airflow settings, or OLED screens, but for most, especially new vapers, the basics are more than enough.

Vape Kit vs Disposable: What’s the Difference?

Disposables may seem easier, but over time, vape kits offer more value and a better experience.

Cost Breakdown Over 30 Days:

• Disposables: ~$15 each × 10 = $150/month
• Refillable pod system: One-time device ~$30 + juice/coils = $50–$70/month

Flavor Variety and Satisfaction:

• Vape kits offer more flavor control, better coil options, and smoother hits
• You can choose nicotine strength, e-liquid brand, VG/PG ratio, and even temperature

Why Many Users Switch:

Disposable vapes are often reported to be overly sweet, prone to leakage, and expensive long-term. For those serious about quitting smoking or vaping consistently, starter kits give you more control, more satisfaction, and more savings, especially when you shop from a trusted source that stands behind its products.

Vape Kit Types And How to Choose the Right One

Vape kits aren’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right style depends on how you want to vape, what type of nicotine you use, and how simple or customizable you want the experience to be. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types and who they’re best for.

Pod Kits (Best for Beginners)

Pod kits are compact, low-wattage devices designed for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping, the style that most closely mimics the pull of a cigarette. They’re the go-to choice for new vapers looking to switch without the steep learning curve.

• Ideal for nicotine salt e-liquids and smoother throat hits
• Require minimal maintenance and are super portable
• Popular models include the Vaporesso Xros, Uwell Caliburn, and Geekvape Wenax
• Devices like the Eco Nano stand out for their excellent flavor and no-leak design, perfect for mess-free, on-the-go use

If you’re switching from smoking or disposables, a pod system is almost always the best place to start.

Pen Kits (For Simplicity and Portability)

Vape pens offer a slightly more traditional look and feel, with a slim, cylindrical design and a single-button operation.

• Best for 10–12mg freebase nicotine or low-strength nic salts
• Great for stealth vaping due to their discreet form factor
• Often include fixed wattage and refillable tanks

Pen kits are a solid choice if you want something a bit more powerful than a pod kit, but still easy to use.

Sub-Ohm Kits (For Hobbyists and Cloud Chasers)

Sub-ohm vape kits are built for performance. They’re larger, more powerful, and designed to produce bigger clouds and more intense flavor.

• Use freebase nicotine, usually 3mg or lower
• Come with adjustable wattage, airflow, and advanced settings
• Perfect for experienced vapers or those interested in customizing their experience

These kits are better suited for those who’ve already tried vaping and want more control, vapor, and cloud production.

MTL, DTL, and RDL Explained Simply

If you’ve been browsing vape kits, you’ve probably seen these acronyms everywhere. Here’s what they mean:

• Mouth-to-Lung (MTL): You draw vapor into your mouth, then inhale. Closest to how you smoke a cigarette. Works well with higher nicotine and nic salts.
• Direct-to-Lung (DTL): Inhale vapor straight to your lungs. Produces more vapor, smoother hits. Requires low-nic, high-VG e-liquid.
• Restricted DTL (RDL): A hybrid between MTL and DTL. Tighter airflow than full DTL, but looser than MTL. Ideal for switchers who want more vapor but aren’t ready for full sub-ohm setups.

What’s Inside the Box? What You Actually Need to Buy

Knowing what comes with your vape kit, and what doesn’t, is key to avoiding surprise trips back to the vape shop (or shipping delays).

What’s Included in a Vape Kit

Most starter vape kits come with the essentials:

• The device itself (pod or pen-style)
• One or two pods or coils to get started
• USB charging cable (usually USB-C or Micro-USB)
• User manual with setup and safety info

Important: Many kits don’t include e-liquid or vape juice, so you’ll need to purchase that separately based on your nicotine preference and the type of device you choose.

What Else You’ll Need

Beyond the starter kit, here’s what you’ll want to pick up:

• E-liquid: Make sure you choose the right type.
  • Pod kits: nic salts or 50/50 freebase
  • Sub-ohm kits: high VG (70/30 or 80/20) freebase
• Spare coils or pods: Coils need replacing every 5–14 days, depending on use.
• Optional backup device: Some vapers keep a second kit charged and ready to go so they’re never caught without.

Vape Kit Lifespan: How Long Do They Last?

A vape kit isn’t something you need to replace every week, but like any device, it comes with its own lifespan. How long your kit lasts depends on how well you maintain it, how often you vape, and whether you’re using the right type of e-liquid.

Device Longevity

• Pod Kits: Typically last 6 to 12 months with regular use and proper care. They’re designed for simplicity but are surprisingly durable when kept clean and charged properly.
• Mods (Advanced Kits): Often last 1 to 2 years, thanks to more robust hardware. They require more maintenance but reward you with longer performance.

What shortens device life?

• Overcharging the battery
• Leaving e-liquid sitting in the pod/tank for too long
• Not cleaning the contacts or airflow channels regularly

Coil and Pod Lifespan

Coils and pods are consumables, meant to be replaced, not reused endlessly. Their lifespan depends on:

• The type of e-liquid: Sweeter or high-VG juices gunk up coils faster
• Your usage habits: Heavier vapers may need to replace coils every 5–7 days; light users can go up to 14 days

When to replace a coil or pod:

• Flavor tastes burnt or metallic
• Vapor production drops significantly
• The draw feels tighter or less satisfying

Tip: Always prime your coil (soak it with e-liquid) before first use by adding a few drops of e-liquid directly onto the cotton and letting it soak for a few minutes. This prevents dry hits and extends coil life.

Battery Maintenance Tips

A little battery care goes a long way, especially for devices with built-in power sources.

• Charge before it’s fully drained: Deep discharges reduce battery health over time
• Avoid overcharging overnight: Once it’s full, unplug to prevent long-term damage
• Use the right charger: Stick with the USB cable provided or a safe, regulated wall adapter
• Carry spare external batteries in a case: If you’re using a mod with 18650 batteries, never toss them loose in your bag or pocket. Use a silicone case for safety

Choosing the Right Vape Kit to Quit Smoking

Switching from cigarettes to vaping can feel like a big leap, but choosing the right vape kit makes all the difference. The goal is to make the transition as smooth and satisfying as possible, so you’re not tempted to go back.

What Vapers Say Works Best

While experiences vary, there’s a clear consensus among experts and long-time users:

• Start with a pod system that uses nicotine salts
• If you’re in Canada, go with 20mg nic salts; in the U.S., you may see 30mg to 50mg available
• Avoid overly sweet disposables, as they often lead to cravings rather than satisfaction

Instead, focus on tobacco or menthol e-liquids if you’re trying to replicate the experience of smoking. These offer the throat hit and taste familiarity that make quitting easier.

Starter Kit Recommendations

If you’re ready to get started, these kits consistently top the list for first-time vapers:

• Vaporesso Eco Nano: Exceptional flavor, zero-leak design, ultra-simple to use
• Uwell Caliburn G4: Balanced draw, long-lasting coils, USB-C charging
• Geekvape Wenax Q: Adjustable airflow, solid build, great for MTL vaping

Each of these kits offers:

• Low maintenance
• Refillable pods
• Strong flavor delivery
• A draw that mimics the feel of smoking

Mistakes to Avoid

You don’t need to be an expert on day one, but avoiding a few common traps can save you time, money, and frustration:

• Buying a high-powered mod too early: These devices are great for clouds but can feel overwhelming. Many new users experience lightheadedness or coughing when jumping into sub-ohm vaping too soon.
• Choosing the wrong e-liquid: Nicotine salt e-liquid is designed for low-wattage devices. Using freebase e-liquid in a pod kit can feel harsh and unsatisfying.

If you’re unsure which kit or juice to choose, stick with a reputable supplier that can help match your needs, not just push product.

Where Should You Buy Your Vape Kit? Why Premium eJuice Is Different

Choosing the right vape kit is only part of the equation. Where you buy it from matters just as much. You want a supplier that backs their products, offers genuine guidance, and helps you get the most from your investment. That’s where Premium eJuice stands apart.

Trusted by Vapers for Over a Decade

Premium eJuice has been a trusted name in the vaping space since 2013. With a carefully curated selection of over 60 global brands, including many not available anywhere else in Canada, they offer products that are hand-picked for quality, reliability, and real-world performance.

• Based in Canada, but also serves U.S. customers
• Provides access to brands that may be FDA-restricted in the U.S., like Plus Pods
• Known for sourcing authentic, guaranteed hardware and coils, no knockoffs, ever

Savings Without the Gimmicks

Budget-conscious? Premium eJuice delivers real value, not just flashy promos.

• Mix-and-match discounts up to 20% across e-liquids and kits
• Flat $4.99 shipping anywhere in Canada
• Disposable cartons are discounted by 20%, making bulk buying more affordable than ever

You save more not just once, but every time you shop.

Genuine Support from Experienced Vapers

What makes the difference between a one-time order and a lifelong customer? Support that actually helps.

• Recommendations are based on hands-on use, not generic specs
• No rushed service or upselling, just honest guidance tailored to your needs
• 60-day warranty on hardware and a guarantee on coils and pods, something most shops simply don’t offer

Whether you’re replacing your first pod or dialing in your perfect setup, we are here for you.

Bonus for Beginners

New to vaping? Premium eJuice has your back.

• Educational resources and product guides that break it all down without the fluff
• Refill reminders so you’re never left without juice or coils
• A zero-pressure experience that respects your pace, budget, and journey

Everything is built around helping you succeed with vaping, without the overwhelm.

Your First Vape Kit Should Make Life Easier, Not Harder

Whether you’re quitting cigarettes, exploring vaping for the first time, or helping someone you care about make the switch, the right vape kit can make all the difference.

When you choose trusted brands, proven setups, and genuine support, like what you’ll find at Premium eJuice, vaping becomes simple, satisfying, and safe.

You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Start with the right kit, and let confidence carry you the rest of the way.