Finding a specialist vape store with a knowledgeable person can make a big difference. They probably know what it’s like to switch to vaping, so don’t be intimidated by the look of the store. If you have any questions as you get used to vaping and your device, go back and check in with them.

When you think of vaping you probably think of big clouds. Well don’t. Those generally come from low nicotine e-liquid and the large tank style device. They are not suited to people who are starting to quit smoking.

You want a high nicotine, discreet pod or pen style, designed to help quit smoking. Ask if they have starter kits.

It can take a bit of time finding the right device, nicotine strength e-liquid, and flavour. Give yourself a chance to find what is right for you.

Freebase nicotine, nicotine salts, high strength, low strength. What does it all mean? Part of a smooth transition is understanding e-liquids.

A lot of success in switching from smoking to vaping relies on the first two weeks. This time can be tough, but it’s worth giving it a really good go.

Vaping can be a lot like smoking, from a routine point of view. But there are some things you might find different.

Be kind to yourself. A lot of people say the biggest hurdle to quitting is believing you can do it. These feelings are normal, and talking to others who’ve been through it can help.

There are free quit coaches at Quitline and local stop smoking services. These are qualified people, often ex-smokers themselves, and can help you put a plan in place, and pass on lots of advice and support. With a quit coach you’ve got a much better chance of quitting for good. Learn more about how a Quit Coach can help you at QuitStrong.nz.

It’s good to know that lots of people take two to three months to fully stop smoking and consider themselves a vaper. And that’s ok.

If you’ve got a bigger goal to stop vaping too, many vapers find they get to this stage around the 12-month mark. Don’t rush it. You have a choice of reducing your frequency of vaping over time, and reducing the strength of nicotine in your e-liquid. Only reduce when you feel you won’t go back to smoking, and won’t have to puff more to compensate.