An electronic cigarette, or e cig is an electrical device that simulates the act of tobacco smoking by producing an inhaled vapour bearing the physical sensation, appearance, and often the flavour of inhaled tobacco smoke, without odour.  In particular, e cigs use rechargeable batteries, and typically using ecigs is a much cheaper smoking option over traditional smokes. E-cigarettes in Australia are a relatively new idea, and e cigs with nicotine are only available online, internationally sourced. Starter Kits for e cigs containing everything needed to switch to e cigarettes would usually cost between AUD$35 – AUD$90. Quite a cheap investment when compared to the soaring cost (and taxes!) of traditional smokes. Stores in some states of Australia can legally sell e-cigarettes without nicotine, however, e cigarettes with nicotine are presently banned from resale in Australian outlets. Safe Smoke Australia is proud to be the leading resource for all information related to the purchase of electronic cigarettes with nicotine.

Each e-cigarette has a battery, an atomizer, and a cartridge filled with a liquid nicotine solution. When you inhale, the atomizer is activated, which causes it to heat up and vaporise the liquid nicotine. The result is an odourless smoking experience coupled with the taste of tobacco or many other flavours available. Depending on the brand, the carrier for the liquid nicotine in each cartridge is either vegetable glycerine or propylene glycol. When purchasing, you can select cartridges the most appropriate nicotine level to comfortably switch to an e cig smoking experience.

The part of an e cig that is reminiscent of a traditional cigarette filter is called a cartridge (or cartomizer/cart). This is where the liquid nicotine and atomizer are held. Cartridges are available in different nicotine strengths, and a range of flavours, including menthol, vanilla, mocha and coffee. Traditionalists may prefer to stick with the more familiar tobacco flavours available. A single cartridge is equal to approximately 20 tobacco cigarettes and is easily replaced when the flavour begins to diminish. It’s worth highlighting that the value of a single cartridge is approximately AUD$5.00 – around a quarter of the price for the equivalent number of traditional smokes here in Australia. In addition, cartridges are easy to replace in e cigarettes, unlike the unpleasant cigarette butts that remain from traditional smokes.

 

The white, or long section of an e cig is the battery. Different brands have different charging times and they last different lengths of time. It is also possible to purchase them in different colours, and some consider styled batteries to be quite a fashion accessory. A flashing light indicates that the battery is low, prompting easy recharge via USB, wall charger or car chargers. On average, recharging takes about two hours.

Generally speaking, electronic cigarette cartridges are available in four different nicotine strengths;

No Nicotine – contains 0mg of nicotine per cartridge. For those who simply enjoy the act of smoking but don’t crave nicotine.

Light – contains 4.8mg nicotine per cartridge. Satisfying for light or casual smokers…roughly equivalent to a Winfield Light.

Medium – contains 10-14mg of nicotine per cartridge. Satisfying for light and medium smokers…roughly equivalent to a Winfield Blue.

Full – contains 16-24mg of nicotine per cartridge. Satisfying for heavy smokers…roughly equivalent to Winfield Red.