Travelling with Shortfill E-Liquids: A Comprehensive Guide

Travelling abroad, especially to Europe, has become an exciting adventure for many vapers. With the rise of shortfill e-liquids, vapers can now enjoy their favourite flavours on the go, while still complying with local regulations. This guide will explore what shortfill e-liquids are, how they came about, and provide tips for travelling with them. We'll also highlight some popular brands, ensuring you have all the information you need for a seamless vaping experience while travelling.

Understanding Shortfill E-Liquids

Shortfill e-liquids are large bottles of nicotine-free vape juice that leave space for users to add their own nicotine shots. Typically, these bottles come in 50ml or 100ml sizes, but only filled to 80% of their capacity, hence the term "shortfill." This design allows users to customise their nicotine strength by adding nicotine shots or "nic shots" to the remaining space.

The Origin of Shortfill E-Liquids

The advent of shortfill e-liquids is closely linked to the Tobacco Products Directive (TPD) implemented by the European Union in 2016. The TPD set stringent regulations on the sale of nicotine-containing e-liquids, limiting the maximum bottle size to 10ml and capping the nicotine strength at 20mg/ml. These regulations aimed to ensure product safety and prevent nicotine misuse.

However, these limitations posed a challenge for vapers who preferred larger bottles of e-liquid for convenience and cost-effectiveness. In response, manufacturers introduced shortfill e-liquids. By selling larger bottles without nicotine, they could circumvent the TPD restrictions. Users could then add nicotine shots according to their preference, maintaining the convenience of larger bottles while complying with regulations.

Traveling with Shortfill E-Liquids

When travelling to Europe with your shortfill e-liquids, it's essential to understand the local regulations regarding nicotine products. The TPD limits the sale of nicotine-containing e-liquids to 10ml bottles, so bringing shortfill e-liquids without nicotine is a practical solution. Here’s how you can manage your vaping needs while adhering to local laws:

1. Carry Nicotine Shots Separately: Since shortfill e-liquids are nicotine-free, you can carry them in larger bottles. Bring nicotine shots in 10ml bottles to mix with your shortfill once you reach your destination. This approach ensures you comply with regulations while still enjoying your preferred nicotine strength.
2. Check Airline Regulations: Before packing your vape gear, check your airline's regulations regarding the transport of e-liquids and vaping devices. Typically, e-liquids should be carried in hand luggage, and it’s best to store them in a clear, resealable plastic bag.
3. Mixing Your E-Liquid: Once you arrive at your destination, you can mix the nicotine shot with the shortfill e-liquid to achieve your desired nicotine strength. This flexibility allows you to maintain your vaping routine without violating local laws.

How Shortfill E-Liquids Differ from Nic Salts and Disposable Vapes

Nic Salts

Nicotine salts, commonly known as nic salts, are a type of e-liquid that uses the natural form of nicotine found in tobacco leaves. This form of nicotine is absorbed more quickly by the body, providing a smoother throat hit and faster nicotine satisfaction. Nic salts are ideal for those seeking a stronger nicotine hit without the harshness often associated with high-strength freebase nicotine.

In contrast, shortfill e-liquids typically use freebase nicotine when users add nic shots. This results in a different vaping experience, with a more noticeable throat hit compared to nic salts. Shortfills offer flexibility in nicotine strength but do not provide the rapid nicotine absorption that nic salts do.

Disposable Vapes

Disposable vapes are single-use devices pre-filled with e-liquid and pre-charged with a battery. They are designed for convenience, with no need for refilling or recharging. Users simply discard the device once the e-liquid is depleted. Disposable vapes are popular for their ease of use, portability, and the variety of flavours available.

Shortfill e-liquids, on the other hand, are intended for use with refillable vape devices. They require users to manually add nicotine shots and fill their vape tanks, offering a more customizable experience. While disposable vapes cater to those seeking convenience, shortfills appeal to vapers who prefer to tailor their vaping experience to their specific preferences.

Popular Shortfill E-Liquid Brands for Travelers

Several brands have become well-known for their high-quality shortfill e-liquids. Among them are Monsta Vape and Dinner Lady.

Monsta Vape

Monsta Vape, a Malaysian brand, has made a significant impact in the vaping community with its vibrant and exotic flavours. Known for their fruit and dessert blends, Monsta Vape’s shortfill e-liquids come in 50ml bottles with a 70VG/30PG mix, ideal for sub-ohm vaping. Popular flavours include the sweet and tangy Monsta Milk, the refreshing Screamo Mango, and the indulgent Vanilla Custard.

Dinner Lady

Dinner Lady, a UK-based brand, has garnered a loyal following with its nostalgic and innovative e-liquid flavours. Their Lemon Tart, a zesty and sweet dessert flavour, has become iconic in the vaping world. Dinner Lady offers a wide range of shortfill e-liquids, including dessert, fruit, ice, and tobacco flavours. Each 50ml bottle is designed for sub-ohm vaping, providing a premium experience for vapers.

Expert Comment

Henry Bishop from Shisha Vibe commented on the popularity of shortfill e-liquids, stating, "Shortfill e-liquids have revolutionised the vaping market by providing users with the flexibility to customise their nicotine levels while enjoying the convenience of larger bottles. Brands like Monsta Vape and Dinner Lady have excelled in offering high-quality, flavourful options that appeal to a wide range of vapers. At Shisha Vibe, we are committed to providing a diverse selection of shortfill e-liquids to cater to our customers' evolving preferences, especially for those who love to travel."

Conclusion

Shortfill e-liquids have become a staple in the vaping community, offering a unique blend of convenience and customization. Born out of necessity due to TPD regulations, these nicotine-free e-liquids allow users to tailor their nicotine intake by adding nic shots. Unlike nic salts, which provide a smoother and faster nicotine hit, or disposable vapes, which offer maximum convenience, shortfills cater to vapers who prefer a more hands-on and personalised vaping experience.

With popular brands like Monsta Vape and Dinner Lady leading the charge, shortfill e-liquids continue to captivate vapers with their diverse and high-quality flavours. As the vaping industry evolves, shortfill e-liquids remain a versatile and popular choice, providing vapers with the best of both worlds—convenience and customization. For those looking to explore the world of shortfill e-liquids, especially when travelling abroad, Shisha Vibe offers a comprehensive selection to suit every preference and need.