Disposable vapes might be easy – but they’re not the end goal. If you’ve started your smoke-free journey with disposables, the next smart step is moving over to a refillable vape kit. It’s cheaper, creates less waste and gives you far more control over how you vape.
In this guide we’ll break down why the switch makes sense, what you actually need, and how to choose a refillable device that still feels simple and familiar.
Why Move Away from Disposables?
1. Cost: Refills Beat Single-Use
With disposables you’re paying for a whole new device every time – battery, casing, coil and all. With a refillable kit you only replace e-liquid and coils/pods, which works out far cheaper once you’re vaping regularly.
Most people moving from disposables to a refillable pod kit find that the device pays for itself very quickly.
See our full range of salt liquids here: Nicotine Salts at Vapour Central.
2. Less Waste, Better Choice
Disposable vapes create a lot of plastic and lithium battery waste for a very short period of use. Refillable devices significantly reduce that footprint because you keep the same kit and simply top up your tank or pod.
On top of that you’re no longer stuck with the same handful of flavours. With a refillable kit you can choose from hundreds of e-liquids, including brands that mimic disposable flavours, classic tobacco, menthols and dessert options.
3. Control Over Nicotine Strength
Disposables are usually fixed at high strengths. When you switch to refillables you can:
- Start at a similar nicotine level to what you’re used to.
- Gradually step down the strength when you’re ready.
- Choose between smoother nicotine salts or traditional freebase liquids.
4. Better Performance and Consistency
Disposable coils are not designed to last. A good refillable pod kit offers more consistent flavour, smoother draw and better battery life. You can also tailor your vape a little – tighter draw for a cigarette-like feel, or airier if you prefer a looser pull.
What Do You Need to Swap to a Refillable Vape?
The basic set-up is surprisingly simple:
- A refillable vape kit – usually a pod system or small kit. See: Starter & Pod Kits.
- Coils or replacement pods – check what fits your device. See: Replacement Coils & Pods.
- E-liquid – nicotine salt liquids work brilliantly for ex-disposable users. See: Nic Salt E-Liquids.
- USB-C charger – most modern kits use this; some include a cable.
If you’re local, you can always pop into one of our Essex stores and we’ll help you choose a set-up that matches your favourite disposable flavours and nicotine strength: Leigh • Westcliff • Rayleigh.
Choosing the Right Refillable Kit if You’re Coming from Disposables
Look for a Tight, “Cigarette-Like” Draw
If you prefer a cigarette-style inhale (mouth-to-lung), choose a small pod kit with adjustable airflow or a naturally tighter draw. These feel familiar if you’ve been using slim disposables.
Stick with Nic Salts at First
Most disposables use nicotine salt in the background. To keep the experience similar, start with 10–20 mg nic salt liquids in flavours you already like – fruits, ice, berry blends and so on.
Match Flavours You Already Enjoy
We stock plenty of ranges inspired by popular disposable profiles – fruity ice mixes, sweet drinks and classics like blue raspberry. Ask in store or message us and we can point you toward liquids that feel familiar.
How to Switch from Disposable/Prefilled to Refillable – Step by Step
- Pick a simple pod kit – nothing overly technical; one-button or draw-activated is ideal.
- Choose 1–3 liquids you’re genuinely excited to use, in a nicotine strength close to your current disposable.
- Set a date where you’ll stop buying disposables and only use your refillable kit.
- Keep it with you – treat it like your old disposable, but now you just refill instead of binning it.
- Review after a week – if cravings are strong, you may need either a higher nicotine strength or to vape a little more often at first.
Remember: the aim is to make your life easier, not harder. If something doesn’t feel right – flavour, strength, device – we can help you adjust it.
Common Questions About Switching
Is a refillable vape harder to use than a disposable?
There’s one extra step – filling the pod – but most modern kits are designed to be as straightforward as possible. Once you’ve done it a couple of times, it becomes automatic.
How often will I need to change the coil or pod?
That depends on how you vape, but many people get around a week or more from a coil when using salt liquids. You’ll know it’s time to change it when the flavour drops off or tastes burnt.
Can I reduce my nicotine over time with a refillable kit?
Yes. One of the biggest advantages of refillables is being able to step down gradually – for example from 20 mg to 10 mg, then to lower strengths if and when you feel ready.
Is this for non-smokers?
No. Vapes and e-liquids at Vapour Central are intended for existing adult smokers and vapers aged 18+. They’re not for non-smokers, never-smokers or anyone under 18.
The Bottom Line
Disposables and prefilled devices are a stepping stone. If you’re serious about staying smoke-free, moving to a refillable kit is the logical next move. You get more choice, lower running costs, less waste and better control over how you vape.
If you’re unsure where to start, drop into one of our stores in Essex or browse our curated online selection – we’ve already done the hard work of picking kits that are beginner-friendly but still perform well.
Shop Refillable Vape Kits at Vapour Central
Vapour Central supports smoke-free choices for adults only. 18+ only. Please vape responsibly.
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