How to Switch From Smoking to Vaping
Many adult smokers turn to vaping as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes and vape devices offer a smoke-free option with different nicotine strengths, vape juice flavours and easy-to-use pod systems. Many people also switch to avoid the strong smoke smell and tobacco stains often caused by cigarettes.
Whether you are trying vaping for the first time or looking for a better setup, we have grouped compatible products together to make online shopping easier and help you get the right products the first time without the confusion of what works together.
Not sure where to start? Browse our FAQs below for beginner vaping advice, nicotine strengths and device recommendations.
Need help picking a setup? WhatsApp Jo on 071 424 7210 — yes, an actual human replies.
What can you buy from Funky Vapers?
Our range covers four main categories. Vape devices: vape pod kits for first-time vapers, vape mod kits for bigger clouds, and disposable vapes from 6 000 right up to 55 000 puffs. Vape juice: in every common strength, from 2 mg and 3 mg freebase for sub-ohm tanks, up to 50 mg nic salts for ex-smokers who want a stronger throat hit. DIY essentials: flavour aromas in 120 ml and 60 ml, plus base liquid and nicotine shots if you mix your own. Replacement parts: coils and pods organized by brand — Vaporesso, Uwell Caliburn, GeekVape, Voopoo, Smok, Oxva, Nevoks, Airscream and Hellvape.
Not sure what fits your setup? WhatsApp us on 071 424 7210 and we’ll point you at the right thing.
Flexible Payment Options for Vape Products
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Why choose Funky Vapers for vape products in South Africa?
At Funky Vapers, we are not just another vape shop in South Africa. Many of us made the switch from smoking to vaping ourselves, so we understand how confusing it can feel in the beginning. From choosing the right nicotine strength to finding a device that suits your needs, we are here to help make the process easier with honest advice and products we trust ourselves.
We also work hard to keep our prices fair across our full range of vape devices, pods and vape juice. By building strong relationships with trusted suppliers over the years, we are able to offer quality products, reliable service and fast nationwide delivery to vapers across South Africa.
Vape Pod Starter Kits for Beginners in South Africa
Vape pod starter kits are one of the easiest ways to start vaping. Designed for beginners, these kits require no prior knowledge and are ideal for those switching from smoking or exploring vaping for the first time.
The starter kits we personally recommend use replacement pods with the coil already built into the pod. Simply fill the pod with vape liquid, wait a few minutes for the liquid to soak properly into the cotton, and you are ready to vape. If the liquid is not given enough time to absorb into the cotton before use, the pod will taste burnt and will need to be replaced.
Try not to let the pod run dry during use. Always keep some vape liquid in the pod to help prevent burning the coil and to keep the flavour tasting smooth. When the pod is finished, you simply swap it out for a new one, making vaping cleaner, easier and less confusing for everyday use.
Beginner Vape Guides
Yes, electronic cigarettes and vapes are generally the same type of product. Both are battery-powered devices that heat vape liquid to create vapour which is inhaled by the user. Unlike traditional cigarettes, there is no tobacco burning, smoke or ash.
Common Names
- Vape
- Electronic cigarette
- E-cigarette
- Vape pod
- Vape pen
- Pod system
- Vape mod
Most vaping devices, also known as electronic cigarettes or vapes, are made up of a few simple parts that work together to heat vape liquid and create vapour for inhaling.
Main Parts of a Vape Device
- Battery – Powers the device
- Coil or Atomizer – Heats the vape liquid
- Pod or Tank – Holds the vape liquid
- Mouthpiece – The part you inhale from
Choosing the right vape device depends on your vaping style, nicotine preference, and whether you are transitioning from smoking to vaping. For many beginners, simple vape pod devices are often the easiest place to start because they are compact, easy to use, and require very little setup. Pod systems are commonly paired with nicotine salts and MTL vaping, which creates a draw that feels closer to a traditional cigarette.
If you prefer a smaller device with discreet vapour production and smoother nicotine delivery, a pod system or starter kit is usually the most suitable option. Adult smokers moving away from cigarettes often begin with nicotine salt vape juice or 12mg MTL vape juice in a low-powered pod device for a more familiar experience.
More advanced vape kits and sub-ohm devices are designed for DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping, where the vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs for larger clouds and increased vapour production. These devices typically use lower nicotine strengths and higher wattage settings and are not generally recommended for nicotine salts in high-powered setups.
At Funky Vapers, we understand that starting vaping for the first time can feel confusing with so many devices, pods, coils, and vape juice options available. Our goal is to help make the process easier by helping customers choose the right setup based on their vaping style, nicotine preference, and overall vaping experience. For beginners looking for a reliable and user-friendly option, we often recommend the Vaporesso range due to its ease of use, pod variety, flavour performance, and beginner-friendly designs. If you are new to vaping, have a look at our vape starter kits for a simpler way to begin your vaping journey.
Vape pod devices have become one of the most popular choices for beginners because they are simple to use, compact, and far less intimidating than larger vape mods. Most pod systems are designed with convenience in mind, requiring very little setup or technical knowledge to get started.
Many pod devices use refillable or replaceable pods that easily click into place, making daily use straightforward for new vapers. They are also smaller and more portable, allowing users to carry them comfortably throughout the day without dealing with bulky tanks or complicated settings.
Another reason beginners prefer pod systems is the cigarette-style inhale they provide through MTL (mouth-to-lung) vaping. This creates a more familiar vaping experience for adult smokers transitioning away from cigarettes, especially when paired with nicotine salts or 12mg MTL vape juice.
Modern vape pod devices are also designed to be lower maintenance compared to advanced vape kits. Many newer devices automatically adjust wattage settings based on the installed pod or coil, helping reduce the risk of burnt coils and making vaping feel easier for first-time users. For beginners looking for a reliable and user-friendly option, the Vaporesso range has become a popular choice due to its flavour performance, pod variety, battery life, and beginner-friendly designs.
Vape Juice & Nicotine Guides
For adult smokers moving away from cigarettes, higher nicotine strengths are often more comfortable during the switch to vaping. Many ex-smokers prefer nicotine salts or MTL vape liquids because they provide a smoother nicotine experience in smaller pod devices.
In our experience, 12mg MTL vape liquid is often one of the best starting points for ex-smokers looking for a balanced throat hit and nicotine satisfaction without moving straight to very high nicotine strengths.
For heavier smokers, nicotine salts in strengths like 20mg, 25mg, 30mg or higher may feel more satisfying, especially when used in pod systems designed for MTL vaping.
Nicotine salts are designed for low-powered MTL (mouth-to-lung) pod systems and starter kits. They should not be used in high-powered vape mods or sub-ohm devices, as the higher vapor output can deliver too much nicotine too quickly and create an unpleasant vaping experience.
Vape liquid and nic salts are both used in vape devices, but they are designed for different vaping styles and nicotine preferences. Standard vape liquid usually contains freebase nicotine and is commonly used in lower nicotine strengths. It is often preferred by vapers using sub-ohm or DTL (direct-to-lung) devices for larger cloud production, increased airflow, and lower nicotine intake.
Nicotine salts, commonly known as nic salts, are designed to deliver nicotine more quickly and smoothly compared to traditional freebase vape liquid. Because of the way nic salts are formulated, the nicotine is absorbed into the body faster, helping provide quicker nicotine satisfaction that many adult smokers find closer to the experience of smoking a cigarette.
Another noticeable difference is the smoother throat hit at higher nicotine strengths. While stronger freebase nicotine can sometimes feel harsh, nic salts are generally smoother to vape, even at higher strengths such as 20mg, 25mg, 30mg, 40mg, and up to 50mg. This is one of the reasons nic salts have become a popular choice for pod systems and MTL vaping devices.
The biggest difference is how the two are used. Standard vape liquid is usually chosen by vapers looking for lower nicotine strengths and larger vapour production, while nic salts are better suited to low-powered MTL devices that provide a tighter, more cigarette-like draw. Nicotine salts are best suited for MTL devices and are not recommended for use in high-powered vape mods or sub-ohm devices.
MTL vaping, short for mouth-to-lung vaping, is a vaping style that closely resembles the way many people used to smoke traditional cigarettes. The vapour is first drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs, creating a smoother and more controlled inhale.
MTL devices are typically used with higher nicotine strengths and nicotine salts, making them a popular option for adult smokers transitioning to vaping. They usually operate at lower wattages, use less vape juice, and provide a tighter airflow compared to larger sub-ohm devices. Many vapers in South Africa prefer MTL vaping for its discreet vapour production, efficient nicotine delivery, and cigarette-like draw.
For adult smokers moving away from cigarettes, 12mg MTL vape juice is often considered a suitable starting point, offering a balanced nicotine strength with a more familiar smoking-style experience. At Funky Vapers, these options are available in both 60ml and 120ml longfill flavour aroma formats, giving vapers more flexibility when choosing their preferred bottle size and setup.
Longfill aromas are not ready to vape directly from the bottle. They are flavour concentrates created to be mixed with a VG base and optional nicotine shot before use. After mixing, the liquid becomes ready to vape and can be customized to suit your preferred nicotine strength and vaping style. Longfill aromas have become a popular choice in South Africa for vapers looking for better value, larger bottle sizes, and more control over their vape juice setup.
To make the process easier, we have grouped the required additives together with the flavour aromas, helping simplify shopping for both new and experienced vapers. Starting out with DIY vape juice mixing can feel overwhelming at first, so these grouped options make it more convenient to get everything needed in one place.
Vape Device Settings & Maintenance
Airflow on a vape device controls the amount of air that passes through the device while vaping. Adjusting the airflow changes how tight or airy the inhale feels, while also affecting vapour production, flavour intensity, and throat hit.
A tighter airflow is commonly preferred for MTL vaping, creating a draw that feels closer to a traditional cigarette with stronger flavour concentration and a smoother inhale. A more open airflow is typically used for DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping, producing larger clouds and a cooler, airier vape.
Many modern vape devices include adjustable airflow settings, allowing users to customise their vaping experience based on personal preference. The airflow control is commonly located on the side of the device or along one of the front edges, depending on the design and model. Finding the right airflow balance can improve flavour performance, vapour consistency, and overall device comfort.
Not every vape device allows you to adjust the wattage manually. Many beginner pod systems and smaller vape devices use preset power levels that automatically work with the installed pod or coil. These devices are built to keep vaping straightforward and easy to use, especially for adult smokers switching to vaping.
More advanced vape kits and pod mods often include adjustable wattage settings, giving users more control over flavour, vapour production, inhale warmth, and throat hit. Lower wattages are usually better suited to MTL vaping and nicotine salts, while higher wattages are commonly used for DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping, where the vapour is inhaled directly into the lungs for larger cloud production. DTL vaping is generally used with lower nicotine vape juice and is not recommended for nicotine salts in high-powered devices.
Many newer vape devices now include smart wattage technology that detects the coil resistance and selects a suitable power output automatically. This can help improve coil lifespan, prevent burnt coils, and create a smoother overall vaping experience.
Your vape coil or pod replacement will usually show clear signs when it needs changing. One of the most common indicators is a burnt or harsh taste while vaping, even when there is enough vape juice in the pod or tank. You may also notice weaker flavour, reduced vapour production, leaking, gurgling sounds, or the device struggling to deliver a smooth and consistent inhale.
For vape devices that use replaceable pod systems, the entire pod replacement may need changing once the built-in coil starts losing flavour or performance. Devices with replaceable coils may only require the coil itself to be changed while keeping the same pod or tank.
Coil and pod lifespan can vary depending on how often you vape, the type of vape juice used, and your vaping style. Sweeter vape juices, higher wattage settings, and frequent chain vaping can all reduce coil lifespan due to residue building up on the coil material more quickly.
For many vapers, coils or pod replacements may last anywhere from a few days to around two weeks before performance starts dropping. Replacing coils or pod replacements regularly helps maintain flavour quality, smoother vaping, and overall device performance.
To help extend coil life, it is recommended to keep vape juice covering the cotton inside the coil or pod replacement as much as possible and avoid letting the pod run dry. When using a new coil or pod replacement for the first time, allow it to soak for at least a minute before vaping to help the cotton absorb the vape juice properly and reduce the risk of burning the coil too early.
Leaving vape juice in a hot car for long periods is not recommended, especially in the South African heat where temperatures inside a vehicle can rise very quickly. Excessive heat and direct sunlight can affect both the quality of the vape juice and the performance of your vape device.
High temperatures can cause vape juice to become thinner, which may lead to leaking, flooding inside pods or tanks, and reduced coil performance. Heat can also affect the flavour over time, causing the vape juice to taste dull, harsh, or slightly different from its original profile. Nicotine strength and consistency may also gradually degrade when exposed to prolonged heat and sunlight.
If a vape device or pod is left in a hot car, the battery can overheat and the internal pressure inside pods or tanks may increase, sometimes forcing vape juice out through the airflow or coil area. Constant heat exposure can also shorten battery lifespan and affect overall device performance.
For best results, vape juice should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Allowing overheated vape juice or a vape device to cool down before use can help protect coil life, battery performance, and flavour quality.
The lifespan of a vape pod device can vary based on the brand, build quality, vaping habits, and how well the device is looked after. In many cases, a good quality pod device can last from several months to well over a year with proper care. The main battery section is designed for ongoing daily use, while the pods and coils are consumable parts that will need replacing regularly.
Most modern pod systems use rechargeable batteries built to handle repeated charging over long periods. However, constant heavy use, accidental drops, dust buildup, overcharging, and exposure to excessive heat can gradually reduce battery performance and overall device lifespan.
Pods and coils naturally wear out much faster than the device itself. Depending on the type of vape juice used and how frequently you vape, a coil or pod may last anywhere from a few days to around two weeks before flavour quality and vapour production start declining. Sweeter vape juices and higher power settings can shorten coil life due to residue building up on the coil.
Simple maintenance can help keep a vape pod device performing better for longer. Keeping the device clean, charging it correctly, and using recommended wattage settings can all help improve coil longevity and battery performance. Pod devices remain one of the most popular vaping options in South Africa thanks to their ease of use, portability, and beginner-friendly design for adult smokers moving away from cigarettes.
Vaping while your vape device is charging is generally not recommended, especially with smaller pod systems and beginner-friendly devices. Although some vape devices include pass-through charging technology that allows them to be used while plugged in, charging and vaping at the same time can place additional strain on the battery and internal components.
When a vape device charges, the battery naturally generates heat. Using the device during charging can increase this heat even further, which may affect battery performance over time and place unnecessary stress on the coil. Excess heat can also cause coils to burn out faster, leading to reduced flavour quality, shorter pod lifespan, and more frequent pod or coil replacements.
For better battery care and coil longevity, it is usually recommended to allow the device to finish charging and cool down before vaping again. This can help maintain more stable performance, improve pod lifespan, and reduce the chances of overheating or burnt coil issues.
Using the correct charging cable and avoiding overnight charging can also help protect the long-term health of your vape device battery.
Trusted South African Vape Shop With Nationwide Delivery
At Funky Vapers, we’re proud to be more than just a vape shop in South Africa — we provide personalized support and reliable service to help you find the right products for your needs. From vape devices and pods to vape liquids and accessories, our focus is on making your vaping experience simple and enjoyable.
Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re committed to delivering a smooth and dependable experience with fast nationwide delivery.
Funky Vapers (registered as Funky Vapers Vape Juice Pty Ltd Founded 2021) is an independent South African vape retailer founded by Yvonne Hill in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, South Africa. This business operates a physical shop in Zandspruit Boulevard and an online store that delivers nationwide and is known for hands-on customer support – all enquiries are answered personally via email or on WhatsApp.
