When you pick up a vaping device you instantly recognize the familiar sight of a small cartridge or tank filled with “juice” – a liquid blend of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavoring agents, and often nicotine. For many users, that liquid is the sole purpose of the device, yet a growing number of vapers ask the question, what can you put in a vape instead of juice? The answer is surprisingly nuanced, because the answer depends on the type of device you own, the legal framework of your jurisdiction, the health considerations you are willing to accept, and the sensory experience you are after.
Below is a comprehensive, step‑by‑step guide that explores every viable alternative to conventional e‑juice, explains how each alternative works, outlines the safety and regulatory issues, and offers practical advice for implementation. By the end of this article you will be equipped to make an informed decision about what to fill your vape with – whether you are looking for a nicotine‑free hobby, a therapeutic cannabinoid experience, or a cost‑effective DIY solution.
1. Why Look for an Alternative?
1.1 Cost Considerations
Premium pre‑filled e‑liquids from well‑known brands can cost anywhere from AU$20 to AU$40 for a 30 ml bottle. Heavy daily vapers can burn through that amount in a matter of weeks, which translates into a significant recurring expense. DIY alternatives such as bulk PG/VG bases, nicotine salts purchased in larger quantities, or even homemade flavor extracts can reduce the per‑mL cost dramatically.
1.2 Flavor Fatigue & Customization
Most commercial juices come in fixed flavor profiles. As your palate evolves you may crave more exotic, seasonal, or custom blends that are not available on store shelves. By switching to a DIY base or a different delivery medium (e.g., wax, shatter, dry herbs) you unlock the ability to mix, match, and experiment far beyond the constraints of pre‑made juices.
1.3 Health & Nicotine Reduction
Vapers who are trying to wean themselves off nicotine often look for nicotine‑free alternatives. Some also wish to avoid PG because of reported throat irritation, or VG because of throat “thickness”. The ability to control the exact PG/VG ratio, or to replace them entirely with other carriers, can be a valuable tool for fine‑tuning the inhalation experience.
1.4 Legal & Regulatory Shifts
In Australia, the Prescription Nicotine Vaping Scheme (PNVS) defines who may legally obtain nicotine‑containing vaping products, and many states impose restrictions on the sale of e‑liquids containing nicotine. For users who cannot access nicotine legally, or who wish to comply with regulations while still using a device, alternatives such as nicotine‑free concentrates, CBD oil, or even herbal blends become attractive options.
2. The Chemistry of a Traditional Vape Juice
Understanding what makes a conventional e‑juice work is essential before you deviate from it. The standard formulation consists of three core components:
| Component | Typical Function | Common Ratio (PG:VG) | Safety Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Propylene Glycol (PG) | Thin carrier, enhances flavor “throat hit”, good wicking | 30‑70% | Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) but can cause irritation in sensitive users |
| Vegetable Glycerin (VG) | Thick carrier, creates vapor, smoother on throat | 30‑70% | Also GRAS; high VG can cause “gunky” coil buildup |
| Flavorings (Food‑grade) | Provide taste and aroma | 5‑15% | Must be vapor‑grade; some (diacetyl, acetyl propionyl) are linked to “popcorn lung” and should be avoided |
| Nicotine (optional) | Provides hit and satisfaction | 0‑24 mg/ml (or higher in salt form) | Highly addictive; in Australia only available via prescription or from overseas with a prescription exemption |
A typical “juice” is thus a homogeneous mixture where PG and VG act as solvents that keep the nicotine and flavorings in solution while also providing the right viscosity for the atomizer. Any alternative you consider must either be compatible with the atomizer’s wicking properties or be used in a device specifically designed for that medium.
3. Categories of Vape‑Compatible Substitutes
Below is a taxonomy of permissible substitutes, grouped by the delivery method and the base carrier. Each category includes a description, device compatibility, preparation steps, pros & cons, and safety considerations.
3.1 Alternative Liquid Carriers
3.1.1 Pure Propylene Glycol (PG) or Pure Vegetable Glycerin (VG)
- What it is: 100 % PG or 100 % VG, without nicotine or flavorings.
- Device Compatibility: Works in any standard tank or pod that accepts e‑juice, as long as the coil can handle the viscosity. Pure PG is thin and ideal for sub‑ohm builds, while pure VG is thick and may require a larger‑bore coil or a “wet‑cook” device.
- Pros:
- Zero nicotine, zero flavor chemicals – pure carrier.
- Simple to source; food‑grade PG/VG is inexpensive in bulk.
- Allows you to control your own flavoring addition later.
- Cons:
- Pure PG can cause throat irritation for some users.
- Pure VG may lead to dry‑hits if the coil is not designed for high‑viscosity liquids.
- Safety Tips: Use pharmaceutical‑grade PG or food‑grade VG, store in airtight containers away from heat.
3.1.2 PG/VG with Natural Extracts (DIY Flavors)
- What it is: A base of PG/VG mixed with natural extracts such as fruit essential oils, herbal tinctures, or culinary extracts (e.g., vanilla bean, cinnamon).
- Device Compatibility: Same as regular e‑juice, but ensure the extracts are water‑soluble and do not contain non‑vaporizable carrier oils.
- Pros:
- Full control over flavor strength and mix.
- Can avoid synthetic flavor chemicals that some users find undesirable.
- Cons:
- Many natural extracts are oil‑based and can clog coils.
- Requires careful measurement; too much extract can alter the vapor density.
- Safety Tips: Only use extracts specifically labeled as “vape‑safe” or “food‑grade, water‑soluble”. Perform a small‑batch test before committing to larger volumes.
3.1.3 Nicotine Salts in a PG/VG Base (Non‑Juice “Salt” Formulations)
- What it is: Nicotine salts are nicotine molecules bound to an organic acid (commonly benzoic acid) that reduces the harshness of nicotine at higher concentrations.
- Device Compatibility: Ideal for low‑power, pod‑style devices, but can also be used in sub‑ohm tanks if the coil can handle the concentration.
- Pros:
- Smoother throat hit, allowing higher nicotine percentages without the “bite” of free‑base nicotine.
- Faster nicotine absorption, mimicking the experience of traditional cigarettes.
- Cons:
- In Australia, nicotine salts are regulated in the same way as regular nicotine; only accessible with a prescription.
- High concentrations can lead to nicotine poisoning if mishandled.
- Safety Tips: Purchase from reputable manufacturers, wear gloves when handling concentrates, and maintain accurate milligram calculations.
3.2 Non‑Liquid Vaporizable Substances
3.2.1 Cannabis‑Derived Concentrates (THC / CBD Oil)
- What they are: Extracts from the cannabis plant containing either THC (psychoactive) or CBD (non‑psychoactive). Usually supplied in a thick oil, wax, or shatter form.
- Device Compatibility: Requires a dedicated “dab” pen, wax atomizer, or a tank with a ceramic coil designed for high‑viscosity concentrates. Traditional e‑cigarettes are not suitable.
- Pros:
- Provides therapeutic benefits (pain relief, anxiety reduction) via inhalation.
- Strong flavor and rapid onset.
- Cons:
- In most Australian states, THC is illegal without a medical prescription; CBD is legal only with low‑dose, therapeutic‑grade products.
- Concentrates can degrade if not stored properly (light, heat).
- Safety Tips: Use only products tested for residual solvents, pesticides, and heavy metals. Start with a low wattage (5‑10 W) to avoid “burnt” taste and lung irritation.
3.2.2 Terpene‑Only “Flavor” Vapes
- What they are: 100 % pure terpenes—aromatic compounds derived from plants (e.g., limonene, myrcene). Typically sold as flavor‑only liquids without PG/VG or nicotine.
- Device Compatibility: Must be diluted in a carrier (PG/VG) because pure terpenes are too viscous and can damage coils. Some modern devices have a “mix‑in” chamber for terpene drops.
- Pros:
- Provides a robust aromatic experience without nicotine or synthetic flavor chemicals.
- Can be combined with low‑PG or low‑VG bases for a custom vapor profile.
- Cons:
- High terpene concentration can be harsh on the throat or cause coughing.
- Not a complete replacement for e‑juice; still requires a carrier.
- Safety Tips: Dilute terpenes to a maximum of 10 % of the total liquid, and always test on a low‑power setting first.
3.2.3 Nicotine‑Free “Flavour‑Only” Concentrates
- What they are: Commercially prepared concentrates containing only flavor chemicals, no PG, VG, or nicotine. Often sold as “flavour drops” for DIY use.
- Device Compatibility: Must be mixed with a PG/VG base. Some DIY enthusiasts create a “super‑high VG” mix (e.g., 95 % VG) to create dense clouds while retaining the pure flavor.
- Pros:
- Full freedom to create a nicotine‑free experience.
- Enables very low‑PG formulations for smoother throat.
- Cons:
- Requires careful measurement; errors can lead to “dry‑hit” or “gunky” builds.
- Safety Tips: Use calibrated syringes or dropper bottles for accurate dosing. Keep records of each batch for repeatability.
3.3 Dry‑Herb & Botanical Vaporizers
3.3.1 Traditional Dry‑Herb Vaporizers
- What they are: Devices that heat raw plant material (e.g., dried tobacco, mint, chamomile) to a temperature that releases volatile compounds without combustion.
- Device Compatibility: Completely separate from e‑liquid tanks; they use a herb chamber and a heating element (conduction or convection).
- Pros:
- No need for liquids or cartridges.
- Allows natural plant flavors and therapeutic compounds.
- Cons:
- Requires regular cleaning; herb buildup can cause residue.
- Battery life can be shorter due to higher power draw.
- Safety Tips: Keep the heating temperature below the combustion point (typically 180‑210 °C) to avoid producing harmful by‑products.
3.3.2 Hybrid “Herb‑Plus‑Oil” Devices
- What they are: Some modern devices incorporate a small e‑liquid cartridge beside a dry‑herb chamber, allowing simultaneous inhalation of both vaporised oil and herb.
- Device Compatibility: Must be purchased as a single system; you cannot retrofit a standard e‑cigarette with a herb chamber.
- Pros:
- Provides a layered flavor experience (e.g., a mint leaf with a citrus oil).
- Reduces the need for high‑strength nicotine concentrations.
- Cons:
- More complex to clean; cross‑contamination can affect taste.
- Safety Tips: Follow manufacturer instructions for cleaning cycles, and never mix non‑vape‑grade oils with dry herb.
3.4 “Non‑Vape” Alternatives (Why Some Users Choose Them)
Although not used inside a traditional vaping device, the following alternatives satisfy the “instead of juice” curiosity for people who are either looking to quit vaping entirely or who want a nicotine‑free inhalation experience.
- Nicotine Pouches (e.g., ZYN, On!): Small, discreet pouches placed under the lip that deliver nicotine through the oral mucosa. No vapor, no device.
- Snus (Swedish Moist Snuff): Similar to nicotine pouches, but traditionally contains tobacco leaf. Legal in Australia only with a prescription.
- Inhalers (Prescription or OTC): Medicated inhalers for asthma or nicotine replacement (e.g., nicotine inhaler “Nicorette”). Provide controlled dosing without a battery.
These options do not involve a vaping device, but they are often mentioned by people searching for alternatives to e‑juice because they still address the nicotine craving or oral fixation.
4. How to Choose the Right Alternative for Your Situation
4.1 Identify Your Primary Goal
| Goal | Most Suitable Alternative(s) | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Cost reduction | Bulk PG/VG + DIY flavor drops; high‑VG “cloud‑chaser” mixes | Cheap raw materials, no expensive cartridges |
| Nicotine cessation | Nicotine‑free PG/VG, terpene‑only mixes, nicotine pouches (non‑vape) | Eliminates nicotine while preserving ritual |
| Therapeutic cannabinoids | CBD oil (THC‑free), herbal dry‑herb vaporizer (e.g., chamomile) | Legal in Australia for low‑dose CBD; therapeutic benefit |
| Maximum flavor experimentation | Pure natural extracts + custom PG/VG ratios; terpene‑only drops | Unlimited flavor combinations |
| High‑density clouds | High‑VG base (90‑95 % VG) + low‑PG flavor concentrates | VG produces large vapor volume |
| Smooth throat hit | High‑PG base (70‑80 % PG) or nicotine salts with low wattage | PG enhances throat sensation; salts reduce harshness |
| Regulatory compliance | Nicotine‑free liquids, prescription‑only nicotine salts, legal CBD | Aligns with Australian TGO 110 and PNVS rules |
4.2 Match the Alternative to Your Device
| Device Type | Compatible Alternatives | Incompatible Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Sub‑Ohm Tank | PG/VG blends, DIY flavor drops, nicotine salts (low‑strength) | Pure wax/shatter, dry‑herb, thick terpene‑only without carrier |
| Pod‑Style Device | Nicotine salts (15‑30 mg/ml), high‑PG e‑juice, nicotine‑free PG/VG cartridge | High‑VG (viscosity too thick), wax or oil concentrates |
| Wax/Dab Pen | THC/CBD wax, shatter, oil concentrates, terpene‑rich dab oil | Any water‑based e‑juice, dry herb |
| Dry‑Herb Vaporizer | Ground botanical material (tobacco, mint, sage) | Any liquid, wax, or oil |
| Hybrid Herb‑Oil Device | Small e‑liquid cartridge + dry herb chamber | Pure oil without a dedicated chamber, high‑viscosity wax not supported |
5. DIY Guide: Creating a Custom Non‑Juice Liquid
Below is a step‑by‑step protocol for making a nicotine‑free, low‑PG, high‑VG blend that can serve as a base for any flavor you wish to add. The same principle applies when you decide to incorporate nicotine salts later (provided you have a prescription).
5.1 Materials & Tools
- Food‑grade VG (vegetable glycerin) – 500 ml bottle, stored at room temperature.
- Food‑grade PG (propylene glycol) – 250 ml bottle, same storage conditions.
- Flavor concentrate (vape‑safe) – 10‑15 ml bottle of your chosen flavor.
- Precision syringe or graduated dropper – 0.5 ml increments for accurate dosing.
- Digital scale (optional) – 0.01 g accuracy if you prefer weight‑based calculation.
- Glass mixing bottle (30‑60 ml) – With a narrow neck for easy swirling.
- Gloves and safety glasses – To protect skin and eyes from accidental spillage.
- Labeling stickers – For batch identification (date, flavor ratio, PG/VG %).
5.2 Calculating the Ratio
For a 90 % VG / 10 % PG base (great for dense clouds with a mild throat hit):
- Total volume: 30 ml (adjust as needed)
- VG required: 27 ml (90 % of 30 ml)
- PG required: 3 ml (10 % of 30 ml)
If you want 5 % flavor, subtract that from the total before calculating VG/PG:
- Flavor: 1.5 ml (5 % of 30 ml)
- Remaining volume: 28.5 ml
- VG (90 % of remaining): 25.65 ml
- PG (10 % of remaining): 2.85 ml
5.3 Mixing Procedure
- Prepare the workspace – Clean the surface, wear gloves, and have all tools within reach.
- Measure VG – Using the syringe or scale, draw 25.65 ml of VG into the mixing bottle.
- Add PG – Measure 2.85 ml of PG and add it to the bottle.
- Add Flavor – Add 1.5 ml of the flavor concentrate.
- Seal and Shake – Close the bottle tightly and shake vigorously for 30‑45 seconds.
- Steeping (optional) – Let the mixture sit for 24‑48 hours in a cool, dark place; shake once a day. Steeping allows flavor molecules to integrate fully with the PG/VG matrix.
- Test – Fill a small amount into your tank, set the device to a low wattage (≈5 W), and take a few slow puffs. Adjust flavor intensity by adding more drops (if required) and re‑shake.
5.4 Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Dry‑hit / burnt taste | Coil not saturated; too much VG or too high power. | Lower wattage, increase PG ratio, or let the coil “prime” longer before vaping. |
| Excessive throat irritation | Too much PG or a harsh flavor concentrate (e.g., menthol). | Reduce PG percentage, dilute flavor, or choose a milder flavor. |
| Coil gunk / residue | High VG causing buildup. | Clean coil regularly, or switch to a lower VG blend (e.g., 70 % VG). |
| Weak flavor | Insufficient flavor concentration. | Add extra flavor drops (up to 15 % total) and re‑steep. |
| Clouds too thin | Low VG content. | Increase VG to 80‑90 % and ensure coil can handle the viscosity. |
6. Safety & Health Considerations for Each Alternative
| Alternative | Primary Risks | Mitigation Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Pure PG / VG | PG‑related throat irritation; allergic reaction (rare). | Start with a low PG ratio, monitor for irritation, keep a water bottle handy. |
| Natural Extracts | Oil‑based extracts can clog coils, cause lipid pneumonia if inhaled. | Use only water‑soluble extracts, filter through a fine mesh before mixing. |
| Nicotine Salts | Over‑dose risk, especially at high concentrations; regulatory violation if unprescribed. | Obtain prescription, use gloves, store in child‑proof containers, keep dosage logs. |
| Cannabis Concentrates | Potential for lung irritation if vaporized at too high a temperature; legal ramifications. | Start at low wattage (5‑10 W), use reputable lab‑tested products, respect local laws. |
| Terpene‑Only Drops | High terpene concentration can cause coughing, bronchial irritation. | Dilute to ≤10 % of total volume, avoid repeated deep inhalations. |
| Dry‑Herb Vaporization | Over‑heating can produce harmful by‑products (pyrolytic compounds). | Keep temperature below combustion (≤210 °C), clean chamber regularly. |
| Nicotine‑Free Flavour Concentrates | Mis‑labelled “vape‑safe” chemicals may contain diacetyl. | Verify COA (certificate of analysis) from supplier, avoid unverified brands. |
7. Legal Landscape in Australia (2025)
Australia’s approach to vaping is among the most regulated globally. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) classifies nicotine as a Schedule 8 (controlled) substance, meaning that any product containing nicotine must be either prescribed by a medical professional or imported with a valid Personal Use Importation Scheme (PUIS) permit.
- Nicotine‑free liquids: Free to purchase and ship within Australia. Brands such as IGET and ALIBARBAR, sold through the IGET & ALIBARBAR VAPE Australia store, provide a broad range of nicotine‑free options that comply with TGA standards.
- Nicotine salts & free‑base nicotine: Accessible only via prescription (PNVS) or the PUIS pathway. The IGET & ALIBARBAR store can ship nicotine‑containing products to customers with a valid prescription, ensuring compliance with the Therapeutic Goods (Prescription Nicotine Vaping) Regulations 2021.
- Cannabinoid products: Low‑dose CBD (≤150 mg per day) is legal if sourced from a TGA‑approved manufacturer. THC‑containing products remain illegal without a specific medical exemption.
- Herbal blends: Dry herbs that do not contain nicotine or controlled substances are generally legal to possess and vaporise, but the device must not be marketed as a “cigarette alternative” without proper registration.
Vapers should always check the latest state and territory legislation, as some jurisdictions (e.g., Queensland) enforce stricter advertising bans and age‑verification protocols.
8. Practical Recommendations for IGET & ALIBARBAR VAPE Customers
-
Starter Kit for Beginners
- Device: IGET Bar Plus (up to 6000 puffs, disposable, high‑VG-friendly).
- Liquid: Choose a nicotine‑free, high‑VG pre‑filled cartridge from the IGET flavour line (e.g., Mango Banana Ice). This offers a hassle‑free experience while you experiment with DIY mixes later.
-
Transition to DIY
- Base: Purchase bulk PG/VG from the IGET & ALIBARBAR store’s “DIY Supplies” section.
- Flavor Drops: Select from the “Flavor Concentrates” range – start with a mild fruit blend (e.g., Passionfruit Ice) and follow the mixing protocol in Section 5.
- Device Compatibility: Move to a refillable pod system such as the ALIBARBAR Mini Pod, which accepts both low‑PG and high‑VG liquids.
-
For Cannabinoid Enthusiasts
- Device: ALIBARBAR Wax Pen (ceramic coil, 3 ml wax tank).
- Product: Legally sourced CBD isolate oil (≤150 mg per day) from a TGA‑approved manufacturer.
- Safety: Start at 5 W, keep a log of daily intake, and store in a cool, dark place.
-
Nicotine Salt Users
- Prescription: Obtain a PNVS prescription from your GP.
- Product: Order Nicotine Salt cartridges (15 mg/ml) from the IGET & ALIBARBAR online portal – they ship only to verified prescription holders.
- Device: Use the IGET Bar Plus (pod‑compatible) for optimal salt performance.
-
Dry‑Herb Vapers
- Device: ALIBARBAR Dry‑Herb Vaporizer (convection heating).
- Herb: Choose dried botanical blends such as Mint + Eucalyptus for a refreshing throat sensation.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I use essential oils (e.g., lavender oil) in my vape tank?
A1. Most essential oils are oil‑based and contain compounds that are not vaporised safely. Inhaling them can deposit lipid residues in the lungs, potentially leading to lipid pneumonia. Only use essential‑oil‑derived flavorings that are explicitly labeled as “vape‑safe” and water‑soluble.
Q2. Is it legal to buy nicotine‑free e‑juice from overseas?
A2. Yes. Nicotine‑free e‑juice is not a controlled substance in Australia, so you may import it for personal use. However, ensure the product complies with Australian safety standards (e.g., ISO 9001, TGO 110).
Q3. How long does a DIY e‑juice last before it degrades?
A3. Properly stored (cool, dark place, sealed container) a DIY blend can retain its flavor for 6‑12 months. Moisture ingress or exposure to heat can cause flavor breakdown or microbial growth.
Q4. Can I vape CBD oil directly in a standard e‑cigarette?
A4. Only if the CBD oil is formulated for vaping (i.e., dissolved in a PG/VG base). Pure CBD isolate oil is too viscous and can coil‑burn. Use a device designed for high‑viscosity liquids or dilute the CBD oil with PG/VG.
Q5. What is the safest wattage for vaporising dry herbs?
A5. For most herbs, a temperature range of 180‑210 °C (≈300‑380 °F) is sufficient. In wattage terms, this usually translates to 5‑10 W on a conduction heater or 10‑15 W on a convection system.
10. Maintenance & Longevity Tips for Non‑Juice Devices
- Coil Cleaning – Even with nicotine‑free liquids, residue can accumulate. Soak coils in a PG solution for 30 minutes weekly, then rinse and dry.
- Battery Care – Use only the manufacturer‑recommended chargers; avoid over‑charging which can degrade battery capacity and increase fire risk.
- Storage – Keep all liquids (including DIY mixes) in amber glass bottles to protect from UV light, which can degrade flavor compounds.
- Device Firmware – For firmware‑upgradable devices (e.g., some ALIBARBAR models), install updates that improve temperature control and safety cutoffs.
11. The Future of Vaping Alternatives
Industry analysts predict that by 2027 the market share of non‑nicotine vaping products will exceed 30 % in Australia, driven by health‑conscious consumers and tighter nicotine regulations. Innovations on the horizon include:
- Water‑based herbal aerosols where plant extracts are encapsulated in a PG‑free, water‑soluble matrix, producing a “steam‑like” inhalation without PG/VG.
- Nano‑emulsion CBD e‑liquids that achieve higher bioavailability while requiring far less carrier liquid.
- Smart‑Pod systems with integrated UV‑sterilization chambers that continuously purify the liquid, reducing microbial risks.
Staying informed about these emerging technologies will allow vapers to make choices that align with both personal preferences and evolving legal standards.
12. Closing Thoughts
The phrase “instead of juice” encompasses a broad spectrum of possibilities, ranging from simple changes in the PG/VG ratio to entirely different inhalation mediums such as cannabis concentrates or dry herbs. By understanding the chemistry behind each option, matching it to the right device, respecting the legal framework, and following sound safety practices, you can confidently explore alternatives that meet your budget, health goals, and flavor cravings.
Whether you are a newcomer seeking a nicotine‑free initiation, an experienced cloud‑chaser experimenting with high‑VG blends, or a therapeutic user looking for CBD vapor, the options outlined above provide a solid foundation. The IGET & ALIBARBAR VAPE Australia store offers a curated selection of devices, bases, and flavorings that make this experimentation straightforward, safe, and compliant with Australian regulations.
Take the information, apply the step‑by‑step recipes, and enjoy a personalized vaping experience that goes beyond the standard “juice” paradigm. Your next cloud, your next flavor, and your next health‑focused decision are just a few thoughtful choices away.