Smoking is a habit that many people in Pakistan have. It is common to see people smoking cigarettes in markets, offices, and even at home. However, smoking is not only harmful to health but also expensive. Many smokers are now looking for alternatives, and one of them is vaping. But is vaping really a cheaper option? Let us find out.
The Cost of Smoking in Pakistan
Smoking cigarettes is costly. The price of a single cigarette pack depends on the brand. A well-known brand can cost around PKR 500 to PKR 700 per pack. If a person smokes one pack a day, they will spend around PKR 15,000 to PKR 21,000 per month. This means that in a year, a smoker could spend more than PKR 180,000 to PKR 252,000 just on cigarettes.
Some people smoke more than one pack a day, which increases their spending even more. In addition, the government has been increasing taxes on cigarettes. This makes smoking even more expensive over time.
The Cost of Vaping in Pakistan
Vaping is another way for people to get their nicotine. A vape is an electronic device that turns e-liquid into vapor, which a person inhales. The price of a vape device varies depending on the brand and features. A basic vape device can cost between PKR 3,000 to PKR 10,000, while more advanced ones can be PKR 15,000 or more.
The e-liquid used in vaping also has a cost. A 30ml bottle of e-liquid costs between PKR 1,500 to PKR 3,000, depending on the brand and flavor. One bottle of e-liquid can last for about one to two weeks, depending on usage. This means a person may need two to four bottles per month, costing between PKR 3,000 to PKR 12,000 per month.
If we calculate for a whole year, a person who vapes may spend around PKR 36,000 to PKR 144,000, including the cost of buying a new device occasionally and other accessories like coils and pods.
Comparing Smoking and Vaping Costs
When we compare smoking and vaping, we can see that smoking is much more expensive in the long run.
- A heavy smoker can spend more than PKR 252,000 per year.
- A vaper may spend between PKR 36,000 to PKR 144,000 per year.
Even though the initial cost of buying a vape device is high, the long-term cost is much lower than smoking. Over time, vaping can save a person a lot of money.
Why Do People Switch to Vaping?
There are many reasons why people in Pakistan are switching to vaping:
- Cost Savings – As we saw earlier, vaping can be more affordable than smoking.
- Less Harmful Chemicals – Cigarettes contain thousands of harmful chemicals that can cause serious diseases. Vaping does not contain tar and other toxic substances found in cigarette smoke.
- Less Smell – Smoking leaves a strong smell on clothes, hands, and even in rooms. Vaping has different flavors, and most do not have a strong, unpleasant smell.
- More Flavors – Unlike cigarettes, vaping comes in many flavors like fruit, mint, coffee, and desserts.
- Social Acceptance – Many public places in Pakistan do not allow smoking, but vaping is sometimes more acceptable.
Long-Term Savings with Vaping
If a person switches to vaping, they can save a significant amount of money in the long run. Let us take an example:
- A person who smokes spends PKR 252,000 per year.
- If they switch to vaping, they may spend only PKR 72,000 per year (on average).
- This means they could save PKR 180,000 per year!
These savings could be used for important things like family expenses, education, or even a vacation.
Conclusion: Should You Switch to Vaping?
Vaping can be a more affordable alternative to smoking in Pakistan. While the initial cost of a vape device may seem high, the monthly and yearly costs are much lower than smoking. Many people switch to vaping to save money, reduce health risks, and enjoy different flavors.
If you are thinking about switching, you should first check the vape price in Pakistan and compare different options. Start with a simple device and see if it works for you. If you are unsure, you can also talk to people who have switched from smoking to vaping.
Remember, whether you smoke or vape, quitting completely is the best option for your health and finances. But if you are looking for a cheaper and less harmful alternative, vaping could be a good choice for you.
