In an age where every penny counts, smokers are increasingly scrutinizing the financial impact of their habits. With cigarette prices on the rise, many are seeking alternatives, and vaping emerges as a popular and potentially less expensive option. Let’s explore whether vaping can indeed be lighter on the wallet compared to traditional smoking.
The Rising Cost of Smoking
Between 2009 and 2020, the cost of smoking cigarettes has surged by 48%, significantly outpacing the 8% growth in household disposable income. This makes tobacco products 27% less affordable than they were a decade ago. Given the escalating expenses associated with daily life, the financial strain of smoking is now more pronounced than ever.
The Challenge of Quitting
Quitting smoking is notoriously difficult. Many smokers have tried various methods from reading self-help books like those by Alan Carr, to using nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) such as patches and sprays, or even attempting to quit cold turkey. However, these methods often prove inadequate in overcoming the addiction.
Vaping as a Cost-Effective Alternative
Vaping is not only a viable alternative for quitting smoking but also a more budget-friendly option. Here’s a breakdown of the potential savings when switching from smoking to vaping, based on average consumption patterns:
Cost Comparison: Smoking vs. Vaping
Smoking Costs:
- 10 cigarettes per day: An average smoker consumes about 182 packs of 20 cigarettes each year. With a packet costing approximately £11.20, this amounts to an annual expense of £2,038.
- 20 cigarettes per day: This doubles the cost to £4,088 annually.
Vaping Costs:
- E-liquids: An average vaper uses about three 10ml bottles of premium e-liquid weekly, costing £4.99 each, totaling £778 per year.
- Hardware: Initial investment in a vape pen starter kit (e.g., S17 vape pen) is £26.99, with additional expenses for coil changes amounting to £103.90 yearly.
Annual Savings:
- For a 10-a-day smoker: Switching to vaping can save approximately £1,130 per year.
- For a 20-a-day smoker: Savings can escalate to about £3,179 per year.
Conclusion: Is Vaping Cheaper?
The numbers speak for themselves. Vaping can significantly reduce the financial burden of nicotine addiction. It’s not just about the cheaper cost of supplies; the initial investment in vaping hardware also pays off quickly compared to the ongoing expense of cigarette packs. For those looking to quit smoking, vaping offers a dual benefit: it’s easier on the wallet and potentially less challenging to stick with compared to other quitting methods.
Switching to vaping could be a smart financial and health decision for many smokers struggling with the high cost and health implications of their habit. If you’re considering this switch, try using a Vape Cost Calculator to see exactly how much you could save based on your specific smoking habits.
By understanding these costs and savings, smokers can make more informed decisions about how to manage their habits, both financially and health-wise.
