The cost of vaping is set to become a bigger consideration for UK consumers. The Government’s planned Vaping Products Duty is due to apply from October 2026, adding a flat duty of £2.20 per 10ml of vaping liquid. Once VAT is accounted for, the real difference at the checkout could be noticeable, especially for people who use larger bottles of e-liquid.
At the same time, the UK disposable vape ban has already changed how many vapers buy and use their devices. Disposable products were convenient, but frequent replacements could make them one of the more expensive ways to vape over time. As a result, more people are looking at refillable kits, larger e-liquid formats and better-value shopping habits.
Cutting vaping costs does not need to mean buying low-quality products or using unsuitable equipment. It is usually about choosing a setup that matches your consumption, understanding bottle sizes and avoiding unnecessary repeat purchases.
Below are six practical ways UK vapers are keeping spending under control as the new vape tax approaches.
| Rank | Cost-Cutting Method | Best For | Key Benefits |
| 1 | Switching to refillable pod kits | Former disposable vape users | Lower ongoing costs, reusable device, simple operation |
| 2 | Buying larger e-liquid bottles | Regular vapers | Better cost per ml and fewer repeat orders |
| 3 | Using shortfills and nicotine shots | Sub-ohm and higher-volume users | Flexible nicotine strength and economical larger bottles |
| 4 | Choosing coils carefully | Pod and tank users | Avoids wasted pods, coils and e-liquid |
| 5 | Shopping multipacks and bundles | Vapers with established preferences | Lower unit prices and convenient restocking |
| 6 | Buying from a specialist vape retailer | Anyone looking for value and choice | Better product range, compatible accessories and informed purchasing |
1. Switch From Disposables to a Refillable Pod Kit
For many people, replacing disposable vapes with a refillable pod kit is the most significant cost-saving move. Disposables may have felt straightforward because they required no refilling or charging, but the need to buy a completely new device every time the battery or e-liquid ran out made costs add up quickly.
A refillable pod system uses one rechargeable device and replaceable or refillable pods. Instead of paying for a battery, casing and mouthpiece every time, users simply top up their chosen e-liquid or replace the pod when it reaches the end of its lifespan. This can reduce the amount spent on vaping hardware over the course of a month.
Pod kits are particularly suitable for people who prefer a mouth-to-lung inhale similar to a cigarette or classic disposable vape. Many are compact, simple to operate and designed for nicotine salts or 50/50 e-liquids.
Key Features
- Rechargeable battery rather than single-use power
- Refillable or replaceable pods
- Compatible with commonly available e-liquids
- Often available with easy draw-activated operation
- A practical alternative following the disposable vape ban
Why Choose This Approach
A refillable pod kit gives former disposable users a familiar vaping experience without the repeated cost of replacing a whole device. There is a small upfront purchase, but ongoing spending is normally focused on e-liquid and occasional pods or coils rather than a constant stream of new devices.
2. Buy E-Liquid in Larger Bottle Sizes Where Suitable
Small 10ml nicotine e-liquid bottles are useful for trying flavours and carrying a backup when travelling. However, vapers who have found flavours they use regularly may spend less per millilitre by choosing larger bottles where appropriate.
Shortfill e-liquids, commonly supplied in 50ml or 100ml bottles with space for nicotine shots, are a popular option for people using refillable devices. They are generally intended for lower-resistance, higher-output kits, although suitability depends on the VG/PG ratio and the coil being used.
The new vape tax makes the amount of e-liquid bought more important than ever. As duty is set per 10ml, buying more liquid does not remove the tax liability, but larger formats can still offer better base product value, reduce packaging and make reordering easier. The key is to buy only what you will realistically use before flavour quality declines.
Key Features
- Larger quantities for regular users
- Often available in a wider range of flavours
- Can offer a lower base cost per ml
- Less frequent need to place orders
- Suitable for compatible refillable vape kits
Why Choose This Approach
Larger bottles make most sense for vapers who have settled on a preferred flavour profile and use enough e-liquid to avoid waste. It is not a reason to overbuy, but it can be a sensible way to make routine vaping purchases more efficient.
3. Consider Shortfills and Nicotine Shots
Shortfill e-liquid is sold in an oversized bottle containing nicotine-free e-liquid, leaving room to add one or more nicotine shots. This allows users to create a nicotine-containing liquid at home within the limits of the product and their device requirements.
For example, adding a 10ml 18mg nicotine shot to a 50ml shortfill usually creates 60ml of e-liquid at approximately 3mg nicotine strength. The final strength varies depending on the size of the bottle, the amount of e-liquid already inside and the nicotine shot used, so it is worth checking the manufacturer’s guidance before mixing.
This approach is often used by sub-ohm vapers who consume more e-liquid and generally prefer lower nicotine strengths. It is less suitable for someone who needs a higher nicotine strength or uses a basic pod kit designed for 10mg or 20mg nicotine salt liquids.
Key Features
- Commonly available in 50ml and 100ml formats
- Lets users add nicotine to suit a preferred lower strength
- Often designed for direct-to-lung and sub-ohm vaping
- Wide choice of flavour styles
- Can be practical for higher-volume use
Why Choose This Approach
Shortfills offer flexibility and can be a cost-conscious route for experienced vapers who use larger quantities of e-liquid. They are best for people who understand their preferred nicotine level, use suitable equipment and are happy to mix a nicotine shot carefully before use.
4. Make Pods and Coils Last Longer With the Right E-Liquid
Replacing pods and coils too frequently is an easy way to increase the running cost of a refillable vape. While coils are consumable items and will eventually need changing, choosing the right e-liquid and maintaining the device properly can help prevent premature burning, leaking and loss of flavour.
Sweetened e-liquids can leave residue on a coil more quickly, particularly in high-powered sub-ohm tanks. Chain vaping can also overheat the coil, while using e-liquid with an unsuitable thickness may cause poor wicking. A high-VG liquid, for instance, is usually better suited to a low-resistance sub-ohm coil than a small pod with narrow wicking ports.
Priming a new coil is another basic but important step. Before vaping, fill the tank or pod and allow the e-liquid to soak into the cotton for several minutes. Starting at a lower wattage and increasing gradually, where the device allows, can also help protect the coil.
Key Features
- Match the e-liquid ratio to the pod or coil
- Prime new coils before vaping
- Avoid running the pod or tank fully dry
- Do not exceed the recommended wattage range
- Replace coils when flavour drops or tastes burnt
Why Choose This Approach
Good coil care will not eliminate replacement costs, but it can reduce avoidable waste. It also improves flavour consistency and helps ensure that money spent on e-liquid is not lost to a burnt coil after only a short period of use.
5. Use Multipacks, Bundles and Planned Restocking
Buying a single replacement pod, coil or bottle every time you run out can be convenient, but it is not always the best-value approach. Once a vaper knows which equipment and flavours work for them, multipacks can bring down the individual price of pods, coils and accessories.
Many brands sell replacement pods and coils in packs rather than individually. This is useful for people who already know the exact pod or coil resistance needed for their device. It also helps avoid the inconvenience of running out unexpectedly and having to make a rushed purchase from a limited local selection.
Bundles can also be worthwhile when they include products you would have bought anyway, such as a starter kit with compatible pods or e-liquid. The important point is to compare the total price with buying items separately, rather than assuming every bundle represents a saving.
Key Features
- Multipacks for compatible coils and pods
- Potential lower unit cost
- Easier to keep essential spares on hand
- Bundles may suit new kit buyers
- Useful for established vaping routines
Why Choose This Approach
Planned restocking is a simple way to avoid paying more for last-minute replacements. It works best once you are confident in your preferred device, pod resistance and e-liquid type. Avoid stocking up heavily on unfamiliar flavours or products that may not suit your setup.
6. Buy From a Specialist Vape Retailer With a Broad Range
Price matters, but buying the wrong e-liquid, incompatible pod or unsuitable coil can cost more than choosing a retailer with a slightly broader product range and clearer product information. A specialist vape retailer makes it easier to compare devices, replacement parts, bottle sizes and nicotine options in one place.
For a practical place to start, Washington Vapes offers a range of vape kits, e-liquids, replacement pods, coils and accessories. This can be particularly useful for vapers moving away from disposables and trying to build a lower-cost refillable setup, as they can select a device alongside compatible consumables rather than buying products separately without checking fit.
The best retailer for an individual will depend on their preferred brands, budget and delivery requirements. However, choosing an established vape-focused shop can make it easier to find compliant UK products, compare options and avoid buying unnecessary equipment.
Key Features
- Vape kits for different experience levels
- E-liquids in varied nicotine strengths and formats
- Replacement pods, coils and accessories
- Easier compatibility checking
- One-stop ordering for regular consumables
Why Choose This Approach
A specialist retailer can help make vaping purchases more deliberate. Rather than repeatedly picking up whatever is available, users can choose a compatible kit, buy the right e-liquid and keep suitable replacement parts in reserve. For many UK vapers, that is a more sustainable way to manage costs ahead of the vape tax.
How to Keep Vaping Costs Down: What to Consider Before You Buy
The first step is to work out how much e-liquid you actually use. Someone who only vapes occasionally may be perfectly happy with 10ml bottles and a simple pod kit. A heavier vaper using several millilitres each day may find that a larger refillable device and shortfill e-liquid better suit their budget and routine.
It is also important to choose a device that fits your nicotine needs. High-strength nicotine salts, including 10mg and 20mg options, are commonly used in low-power pod kits. These users may consume less liquid than a sub-ohm vaper, but they should still account for the cost of pods and 10ml e-liquid bottles. Conversely, sub-ohm devices generally use more liquid but can be paired with larger, lower-strength shortfill bottles.
Do not choose a kit on price alone. An inexpensive device with difficult-to-find pods or coils can become costly and inconvenient. Before buying, check that replacement consumables are readily available, understand their likely lifespan and make sure you are comfortable with the refill method.
Vapers should also be cautious about buying more than they can use. It may be tempting to stock up before the Vaping Products Duty begins in October 2026, but e-liquid has a shelf life and flavours can change over time after opening. Store e-liquid in a cool, dark place, keep it away from children and pets, and buy a sensible amount based on normal use.
Finally, only purchase UK-compliant products from reputable sellers. In the UK, nicotine-containing e-liquid is generally limited to 20mg/ml and 10ml refill containers, while nicotine vape tanks and pods have a 2ml capacity limit. Products that appear unusually cheap or make unclear claims may not offer the savings they first appear to provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new UK vape tax start?
The planned Vaping Products Duty is due to begin on 1 October 2026. It is set at £2.20 per 10ml of vaping liquid, with VAT also affecting the final retail price.
Will the vape tax make all vaping products more expensive?
The duty is based on the volume of vaping liquid, so the biggest impact is expected to be on e-liquids and prefilled vaping products containing liquid. Retail prices may also vary depending on the retailer, brand and existing product costs.
Are refillable vapes cheaper than disposables?
For many regular users, refillable pod kits can cost less over time because the battery and main device are reused. Ongoing costs are limited to e-liquid and replacement pods or coils, rather than purchasing a complete device repeatedly.
Are shortfills cheaper than 10ml e-liquids?
Shortfills can offer better value per ml before tax considerations, particularly for people who use larger amounts of low-strength e-liquid. They are usually most suitable for sub-ohm devices and may require nicotine shots if nicotine is wanted.
How often should I replace a vape coil or pod?
It depends on the device, e-liquid and how often you vape. A coil or pod should usually be replaced when flavour becomes muted, the vapour production drops, leaking occurs or you notice a persistent burnt taste.
What is the most affordable vape setup for former disposable users?
A simple refillable pod kit paired with compatible nicotine salt e-liquid is often a sensible starting point. It keeps the setup straightforward while reducing the need to replace an entire device each time the e-liquid runs out.