Vape Juices: The Complete Guide to E-Liquids, Flavours, Nicotine Types, and Buying the Best Vape Juice 

Introduction to Vape Juices

Vape juices, also known as e-liquids or vape liquids, are the core element of every vaping experience. Without vape juice, even the most advanced vape device would be useless. From flavour intensity and vapour production to throat hit and nicotine satisfaction, the quality of vape juice directly determines how enjoyable vaping feels.

As vaping continues to grow globally and across the UK, vape juices have evolved into a highly refined product category. Today’s vape juices offer advanced flavour layering, smoother nicotine delivery, cleaner formulations, and compatibility with a wide range of vape devices—from pod systems to high-powered sub-ohm mods.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about vape juices, including ingredients, flavour types, nicotine options, safety considerations, and how to choose the best vape juice for your needs.

What Are Vape Juices?

Vape juice is a liquid used in electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. When heated by a coil, the liquid turns into vapour that users inhale. Vape juices are specifically formulated to vaporise efficiently while delivering flavour and nicotine smoothly.

A standard vape juice consists of four primary components:

• Vegetable Glycerin (VG)

• Propylene Glycol (PG)

• Flavour concentrates

• Nicotine (optional)

Each component plays a vital role in how the vape juice performs.

Key Ingredients in Vape Juices Explained

Vegetable Glycerin (VG)

VG is a thick, slightly sweet liquid derived from vegetable oils. It is responsible for vapour production and smooth inhalation.

Benefits of VG:

• Produces dense clouds

• Smooth throat hit

• Ideal for sub-ohm vaping

High-VG vape juices are popular among cloud chasers and direct-to-lung (DTL) vapers.

Propylene Glycol (PG)

PG is a thinner liquid that carries flavour effectively and provides a stronger throat hit.

Benefits of PG:

• Enhances flavour clarity

• Mimics cigarette throat hit

• Suitable for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping

PG-heavy vape juices are commonly used in pod systems and starter kits.

Flavourings

Vape juice flavourings are food-grade concentrates designed specifically for inhalation. These are responsible for the wide variety of flavour profiles available today.

Common flavour categories include:

• Fruit

• Dessert

• Menthol & ice

• Tobacco

• Beverage blends

Nicotine (Optional)

Nicotine in vape juices comes in different strengths and forms, allowing users to customise their intake.

Nicotine-free vape juices are also widely available for flavour-only vaping.

Types of Vape Juices by VG/PG Ratio

Understanding VG/PG ratios helps users select the right vape juice for their device.

50/50 Vape Juices

• Balanced VG and PG

• Best for pod systems and MTL tanks

• Smooth flavour with moderate vapour

High VG Vape Juices (70/30 or higher)

• Thick consistency

• Designed for sub-ohm tanks

• Massive vapour production

High PG Vape Juices

• Strong throat hit

• Excellent flavour delivery

• Less common in modern vaping

Nicotine Types in Vape Juices

Freebase Nicotine

Freebase nicotine is the traditional form of nicotine used in vape juices.

Best for:

• Sub-ohm vaping

• Lower nicotine strengths

• Smooth long-term vaping

Nicotine Salt (Nic Salt)

Nicotine salts are smoother at higher strengths and absorb faster into the bloodstream.

Best for:

• Pod systems

• Ex-smokers

• Low-wattage devices

Nic salt vape juices are widely used in the UK due to their smooth delivery and effectiveness.

Popular Vape Juice Flavour Categories

Fruit Vape Juices

Fruity vape juices remain the most popular category due to their refreshing taste and wide variety.

Examples include:

• Strawberry

• Mango

• Blueberry

• Watermelon

• Mixed berry blends

Dessert Vape Juices

Dessert flavours replicate sweet treats and baked goods.

Popular options include:

• Vanilla custard

• Caramel

• Doughnut

• Chocolate blends

Menthol & Ice Vape Juices

These vape juices provide a cooling sensation and crisp inhale.

Common flavours:

• Menthol

• Ice mint

• Fruit ice combinations

Tobacco Vape Juices

Designed for former smokers seeking a familiar taste.

Available styles:

• Classic tobacco

• Sweet tobacco

• RY4 blends

Vape Juices for Different Devices

Vape Juices for Pod Systems

• 50/50 VG/PG

• Nicotine salts

• Lower wattage compatibility

Vape Juices for Sub-Ohm Tanks

• High VG

• Freebase nicotine

• Larger flavour profiles

Vape Juices for MTL Tanks

• Balanced ratios

• Strong flavour focus

• Smooth throat hit

How to Choose the Best Vape Juice

When selecting vape juice, consider:

• Device compatibility

• Preferred nicotine strength

• Flavour preference

• VG/PG ratio

• Brand reputation

Choosing the wrong vape juice can result in coil burnout, leaking, or poor flavour.

Are Vape Juices Safe?

Vape juices sold in the UK must comply with TPD regulations, including:

• Ingredient transparency

• Nicotine strength limits

• Child-resistant packaging

While vaping is not risk-free, regulated vape juices are considered a reduced-harm alternative to smoking for adult users.

Storage and Shelf Life of Vape Juices

Proper storage ensures freshness and flavour longevity.

Best practices:

• Store in a cool, dark place

• Keep bottles sealed

• Avoid heat and sunlight

Most vape juices last 1–2 years when stored correctly.