We know that lots of vape enthusiasts love disposable vapes. But although they’re fun and easy to use, it’s becoming obvious that they’re so not good for the environment. In fact, from April 2025 it looks like the UK government will ban them altogether. But don’t panic, there are plenty of alternatives out there to help you switch away from disposables and onto more environmentally friendly vape options. Take a look at our breakdown of some of the best alternatives to disposable vapes:
1. Reusable Vape Pens
Reusable vape pens are exactly what they sound like, a vape you can keep using time and time again. Great for sustainability and more economical over time too. Reusable vapes usually have a rechargeable battery and a replaceable cartridge or tank. You can refill the tanks with an e-liquid of your choice, take a look at the huge selection of e-liquids we have for sale here. Some notable benefits of reusable vapes include:
- Cheaper in the long run: Although the initial cost is a bit more than a disposable one, reusable vape pens are cheaper in the long run as you only need to buy e-liquid and occasionally replace coils.
- Customisation: You can choose from a huge variety of e-liquid flavours and strengths.
- Environmental benefits: Significantly less waste is produced compared to disposables because they don’t get thrown away after one use.
2. Pod Systems
Pod systems are small and easy to use. They sit somewhere between disposables and more advanced vape kits. They consist of a battery unit and replaceable or refillable pods. There are two main types:
- Pre-filled pod kits: Pre-filled pods that are thrown away after use. Take a look at our selection of pre-filled pod kits here.
- Refillable pod kits: These are even more environmentally friendly as they can be reused. You can easily change flavours when you refill too. Check out our selection of refillable pod kits here.
3. Mods
Mods are great for more experienced vape users because they’re fully customisable. You get lots of cool features like bigger batteries, adjustable wattage, and temperature control. Although they require a bit of experience to operate, you can customise them to provide the ultimate vaping experience. Some benefits of box mods include:
- Top-level performance: Get the vapour production and flavour you love.
- Durability: They are better made than reusables and disposables, you can count on them lasting a long time.
- Customisation: Change your power settings and your vape tanks to fine-tune your clouds.
Take a look at our selection of mods here.
4. HNB Devices
HNB, which stands for Heat Not Burn, are devices designed for use with actual tobacco. The idea is to use tobacco without as many of the negative effects of smoking it. How do they do this? They heat tobacco just enough to release a nicotine-containing vapour but not enough to burn it. Benefits include:
- Not as bad as smoking: These devices release lower levels of harmful chemicals compared to combustible cigarettes, although we would still recommend a vape over actual tobacco.
- Sustainability: Like some of the other devices we’ve discussed here, HNB kits are reusable.
- Reliable: You can get a reliable nicotine hit to satisfy your cravings.
5. Nicotine Patches/Gum/Sprays etc.
Looking to give up nicotine completely? Patches, gum and other similar options have been around for decades. You won’t get the same flavour or satisfying hit as you do with vaping, but they do help manage cravings pretty well:
- No harmful chemicals: These options are way safer than cigarettes.
- No environmental impact: An almost zero waste option.
- Easy to get: You can pick up patches, gum and sprays pretty much anywhere these days.
6. Vaporisers
These are a bit like HNB devices, but you can use them with way more than just tobacco, including aromatherapy herbs. Again, it’s all about heating things to just the right temperature to release vapours but without any burning. Just like HNB, these offer a cleaner alternative to smoking:
- Healthier: Far fewer toxins are produced than with burning.
- Lots of options: You can put loads of different herbs and plants in them.
- Sustainability: They are reusable devices so they generate less waste than disposable vapes.
7. DIY Vape Kits
Feeling adventurous? DIY vape kits might be for you. With a DIY kit you can build your own coils and customise your devices in even more detail than with box mods. The level of customisation on offer makes these ideal for the most experienced vape enthusiasts. Benefits include:
- Lower overall cost: Cheaper in the long run than most alternatives.
- Total customisation: You control everything from coil resistance to wicking material, and overall performance.
- Satisfying: Customising your experience is rewarding and satisfying.
Take a look at our customisable DIY vape selection here.
The best alternatives to disposable vapes
Switching from disposable vapes to any of these options is better for the environment and gives you way more control over your vaping experience. If you’re ready to take your vaping to the next level, take a look around our UK vape shop and try some of the amazing alternatives to disposable vapes that we have in stock today.
4 thoughts on “The best environmentally friendly alternatives to disposable vapes”
Do you have any specific brands you’d recommend for reusable vapes?
As starter kits we’d recommend the GREEN SOUND G.S EGO 2, the VAPORESSO ORCA SOLO or the SMOK VAPE PEN NORD 19 KIT.
Are reusable vapes easy to maintain? How long do they last compared to disposables
Reusable vapes are generally easy to maintain, requiring only basic upkeep like cleaning the mouthpiece and replacing or refilling the e-liquid pods. Some models also need coil replacements, but this is straightforward and usually inexpensive. Most reusable vapes come with a rechargeable battery, which can last for several hundred charges, depending on usage.
In terms of longevity, reusable vapes like the SMOK vape pen nord 19 can last for months or even years if well maintained. The coils typically need replacing every 1-2 weeks, depending on usage, while the batteries can last much longer.