82% Of Brits Are Already Stockpiling Disposable Vapes Ahead Of The UK’s Single-Use Ban

With the UK’s disposable vape ban fast approaching, a wave of stockpiling is already underway and experts are warning it could spark more than just panic buying. From fire risks linked to poor storage of devices and confusion over safer alternatives, the rush to hoard disposable vapes is quickly becoming a public safety concern.

New research from Haypp reveals a staggering 82% of current vape users plan to stock up ahead of the 1 June 2025 ban, with 37% planning to buy a three-month supply, and 28% admitting they’ll purchase enough to last more than six months. 16% say they’ll stock up for one month, and 18% for up to six months, signalling a widespread rush to hoard products before they disappear from shelves.

The behaviour spans every demographic, but it’s 45–54-year-olds leading the trend, with 89% saying they’ll stock up, compared to 82% of 18–24s, 79% of 25–34s, and 77% of 35–44s. Even among those aged 55 and over, 73% say they intend to stockpile. 84% of women who are disposable vape users say they will stockpile compared with 79% of men.

But this stockpiling could have serious safety implications. The sealed lithium-ion batteries inside disposable vapes can become unstable when exposed to heat, moisture, or physical damage, especially if stored in unsuitable conditions. In some cases, this can trigger what’s known as thermal runaway — a reaction that can lead to fires, toxic gas release, or even explosions. Fire services warn that storing vapes in confined or unventilated spaces, like under stairs or in cupboards, could make these risks worse. While such incidents are rare, the risk increases significantly when devices are mishandled or stockpiled without care.

Disposable vapes typically have a shelf life of 12 to 24 months, but poor storage conditions can shorten that dramatically. To reduce the risk, experts recommend keeping vapes in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. They should never be crushed, punctured, or stockpiled in bulk. With so many users planning to buy ahead of the ban, simple safety steps like ventilation and proper handling can make all the difference.

At the same time, online sales are playing a major role in shaping these behaviours. 57% of respondents say all their vape purchases happen online, and their reasons are clear: price (68%), bulk-buying options (46%), and direct delivery (41%). If you are considering bulk ordering disposable vapes, it’s important to be fully educated on the safety risks of these products before purchasing.

There is also a clear sense of resistance to the ban from disposable vape users. 78% oppose the disposable ban, and 77% believe the government should not have the right to introduce product bans like this. Worryingly, over a third (34%) would consider buying illegal disposable vapes, with interest highest among 18–24s (39%) and over-55s (40%).

When the ban hits, 43% of vapers plan to switch to pre-filled pod kits, products designed to replicate the disposable vape experience, but are reusable. For many, the goal is familiarity. Nearly half (47%) say the most important factor when choosing a new device is how closely it mirrors their current vape, while 41% will prioritise finding the same flavour, regardless of brand. A further 28% say they’ll actively seek out the same brand they already use, underscoring just how strongly habit and taste drive behaviour. Even among those exploring other formats, such as nicotine pouches, heated tobacco or cigarettes, 31% will seek out the product most similar to their current vape experience, while 44% will prioritise convenience, and 13% will be guided by price.

All of this paints a troubling picture. Without clear public guidance on alternatives, safe battery storage, and smoking cessation support, the upcoming ban could backfire, pushing users to hoard devices unsafely, use black market products, and increasing the likelihood of switching back to smoking cigarettes.

As the countdown to the ban continues, health experts are urging consumers not to panic, but to plan safely and seek support. Whether you’re thinking about quitting altogether or switching to a different device, there are trusted, regulated alternatives and free stop-smoking services available across the UK. From nicotine pouches to behavioural support, help is at hand to make the transition smoother and safer. Stockpiling may feel like a quick fix, but the real long-term gain comes from making informed choices for your health, your safety, and those around you.