Whether you're looking to switch from cigarettes or simply curious about vaping, getting started can feel confusing with so many devices, e-liquids, and terms to learn. This beginner's guide covers everything you need to know to start vaping in Canada with confidence — from choosing your first device to understanding e-liquid basics and taking your first puff.
What Is Vaping?
Vaping is the act of inhaling vapour produced by an electronic device that heats e-liquid (also called vape juice). Unlike smoking, vaping doesn't involve combustion — there's no burning tobacco, tar, or ash. The device heats a coil, which vapourises the e-liquid, and you inhale the resulting vapour. E-liquids typically contain propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerine (VG), flavouring, and optionally nicotine.
Types of Vaping Devices
Disposable Vapes
Disposables are the simplest way to start vaping. They come pre-filled with e-liquid and pre-charged — just remove from the package and inhale. When the liquid runs out or the battery dies, you dispose of the device. Disposables are ideal for trying vaping without any commitment, as there's no device to buy, no pods to fill, and no buttons to learn. Most disposables in Canada use 20mg nicotine salt for a smooth, satisfying experience. Browse disposable vapes.
Closed Pod Systems
A closed pod system is a small, rechargeable device that uses pre-filled pods. You buy the device once and then purchase replacement pods as needed. This is the natural next step from disposables — you get the same simplicity but with a rechargeable device that's more economical over time. STLTH is Canada's most popular closed pod system, with a massive variety of pod flavours available. Browse closed pod systems.
Open Pod Systems
Open pod systems use refillable pods that you fill with bottled e-liquid. This gives you access to a much wider range of flavours, nicotine strengths, and e-liquid brands. Open systems require slightly more effort — you fill the pod yourself and replace the coil when flavour diminishes — but they're the most cost-effective and customisable option. Browse open pod systems.
Sub-Ohm Devices and Mods
Sub-ohm devices are larger, more powerful setups that produce significant vapour clouds and intense flavour. They use freebase nicotine e-liquid at lower concentrations (3–6mg) and offer features like adjustable wattage and airflow. These devices are popular with experienced vapers but can feel overwhelming for beginners. If you're interested, most vapers work their way up to sub-ohm after getting comfortable with a pod system.
Understanding E-Liquid
E-liquid is what your device heats to produce vapour. Here are the key things to know:
Nicotine type: Freebase nicotine provides a traditional throat hit and is used in sub-ohm devices at low strengths (3–6mg). Nicotine salt is smoother at higher strengths (10–20mg) and is used in pod systems and disposables. For a deeper explanation, read our guide on freebase vs salt nic.
VG/PG ratio: VG (vegetable glycerine) produces thicker vapour, while PG (propylene glycol) carries flavour better and provides more throat hit. Pod system e-liquids are typically 50/50, while sub-ohm juices lean toward 70/30 or 80/20 VG/PG for bigger clouds.
Flavours: E-liquids come in virtually every flavour imaginable — fruits, menthol, desserts, candy, tobacco, and more. The best way to find your favourites is to try a few different profiles and see what appeals to your palate.
How to Take Your First Puff
Most beginner devices (disposables and pod systems) are draw-activated, meaning you simply inhale from the mouthpiece and the device fires automatically. Here are some tips for your first experience:
Take slow, gentle draws rather than hard, fast inhales. Let the vapour sit in your mouth briefly before inhaling into your lungs (this is called "mouth-to-lung" or MTL, and it mimics the way most people smoke cigarettes). Start with just a few puffs and wait a few minutes to gauge how the nicotine affects you. If you feel dizzy or light-headed, you've had enough for now — set the device down and come back later.
Vaping Etiquette and Regulations in Canada
Vaping in Canada is regulated at both the federal and provincial level. You must be of legal age in your province to purchase vaping products (19 in most provinces, 18 in Alberta). While vaping is generally permitted in fewer places than it used to be, it's good practice to follow the same courtesy as smoking — avoid vaping indoors in public spaces, near entrances, or around children and non-vapers.
Getting Started with NYX Vape
NYX Vape makes it easy to start your vaping journey. Browse our full selection of devices, e-liquids, and accessories, or start with a disposable vape to try it out risk-free. We offer free Canada-wide shipping on orders over $75 and free same-day delivery in the GTA.
