The convenience and intense flavour of disposable vapes were a major reason for their popularity. However, for a long time, vapers had to choose between the simplicity of a disposable and the long-term affordability and sustainability of a refillable device. Thankfully, a new category of e-liquids has emerged that offers the best of both worlds: disposable-style e-liquids. These specially formulated juices are designed to replicate the signature flavours of your favourite disposable bars, allowing you to enjoy the same great taste while using a more economical and eco-friendly refillable kit.
This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect disposable style e-liquid, from understanding nicotine and VG/PG ratios to exploring the top brands on the market today. By the end, you'll be equipped to make the smart switch without compromising on flavour.
Understanding Nicotine, VG/PG, and Vaping Style
Making the switch from disposables to a refillable kit is much simpler once you understand the fundamentals of what makes these e-liquids tick.
Nicotine Strengths
Disposable vapes contain nicotine salts, or nic salts, which provide a much smoother throat hit than traditional freebase nicotine. This allows manufacturers to use higher nicotine concentrations without the harshness. Disposable style e-liquids use the same nic salt formula. To choose the right strength, think about your current usage. For those who used 20mg disposables, sticking with a 20mg nic salt e-liquid is a good starting point. If you were a more moderate vaper, a 10mg strength might be a better fit, and a few brands even offer 5mg for those who want a lower dose.
VG/PG Ratios
The liquid in your vape is made up of two main ingredients: Vegetable Glycerin (VG) and Propylene Glycol (PG). VG is responsible for vapour production, while PG carries the flavour and provides the throat hit. Disposable-style e-liquids are expertly balanced, with most using a 50VG:50PG ratio. This blend is the perfect middle ground, ensuring you get a robust flavour from the PG and a smooth, satisfying vape from the VG. This ratio is also perfectly suited for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping, which is the tight, cigarette-like draw that most people are used to from disposables.
Flavour Profiles
The primary appeal of disposable style e-liquids is the flavour. Unlike many standard e-liquids, these are created with a double-concentrated recipe to deliver the same bold, punchy taste that makes disposables so popular. The good news is that almost every flavour found in a disposable vape (from fruity concoctions like Watermelon Ice and Blue Razz Lemonade to more traditional tastes like Cream Tobacco) is now available in a bottled nic salt format.
Disposable-Style E-Liquids Product Spotlight
Several top brands have stepped up to meet the demand for high-quality disposable-inspired e-liquids. Here are some of the best options, all available on Vaping 101, designed to deliver that unmistakable disposable taste.
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Bar Juice 5000 Nic Salts: A true pioneer in the market, Bar Juice 5000 offers an impressive selection of over 40 flavours, all replicating the taste of popular disposable bars. Known for their quality ingredients and a variety of VG:PG ratios, they are a fantastic eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative.
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Elux Legend Nic Salts: Crafted by the makers of the legendary Elux disposables, the Elux Legend nic salts deliver rich, authentic flavours with a premium formula. They are perfect for fast nicotine absorption and work seamlessly with all mouth-to-lung kits and low-wattage devices, ensuring a consistently high-quality vape.
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Elfliq Nic Salts: Made by Elf Bar, the company that set the standard for disposables, Elfliq provides the exact same flavours you know and love in a convenient 10ml bottle. With a balanced 50VG:50PG ratio and multiple nicotine strengths (including 5mg), they are a perfect match for any MTL pod or starter kit.
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OXVA OX Passion Nic Salts: Expertly blended by the well-respected brand OXVA, the OXVA OX Passion nic salts are designed to mimic the flavours of top-tier disposables like Elf Bar and Lost Mary. A single bottle offers the equivalent of up to five disposables, making them an incredibly economical choice. They are available in both 10mg and 20mg strengths.
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SKE Crystal Original Salts v2: Building on the success of their popular disposables, SKE's updated Version 2 nic salts deliver an authentic and balanced vaping experience. With a 50VG:50PG blend and available in a range of core flavours, these are a reliable and cost-effective way to enjoy your favourite SKE Crystal tastes.
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Mix Labs Nic Salts: This user-friendly option is meticulously formulated to echo the most popular disposable flavours. With a balanced 50% VG ratio and available in 10mg and 20mg strengths, Mix Labs’ nic salts are a smooth, consistent, and sustainable alternative to single-use vapes.
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Zeus Juice Bar Liq: A great value, UK-made option from Zeus Juice. These e-liquids feature a double-concentrated recipe for a bolder, more intense flavour. With a smooth nic salt formula and a balanced 50/50 blend, Zeus Juice’s Bar Liq salts are a perfect entry point for anyone looking to transition from disposables.
Most of these options are available in our popular 4 for £9.50 multi-buy deal, allowing you to stock up on your favourite flavours for an even more affordable price.
Making the Switch
Ready to make the change? It's easier than you think. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to get you started:
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Select your preferred e-liquid flavour and nicotine strength from one of the brands listed above.
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Choose a simple refillable pod kit or starter kit that is compatible with nic salts and designed for MTL vaping.
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Fill your device's pod or tank with your new disposable style e-liquid. Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks.
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For new coils, it is essential to let the e-liquid soak in for at least 5-10 minutes before your first puff. This is called priming your coil, and it prevents a burnt taste.
If you encounter any issues, remember that a burnt taste is often a sign that you need to replace your coil/pod, while leaks can often be solved by ensuring your pod or tank is properly sealed.
The Best of Both Worlds
Switching to a refillable kit with disposable style e-liquids is a fantastic choice for any vaper. You get to enjoy the bold, intense flavours you love, all while saving a significant amount of money and reducing your environmental footprint. It’s a win-win situation that proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste or convenience for long-term value.
Explore our full range of disposable style e-liquids and refillable kits today and take the next step in your vaping journey.