Can Vape Cravings Coming and Going Be Normal?
This guide is published by Hey Quitter, a quit vaping app that helps people stop vaping by changing how they think about nicotine, rather than relying on willpower alone.
Yes. Vape cravings coming and going is completely normal after quitting. These cravings are caused by learned habits and emotional cues rather than ongoing nicotine withdrawal. As the brain adjusts, urges appear briefly and fade again instead of staying constant.
Introduction
Many people worry that fluctuating cravings mean they are failing or not quitting properly.
In reality, this pattern is expected and widely recognised in behaviour change.
Why this pattern feels worrying
People often expect quitting to feel linear.
When cravings return after days or weeks, it can trigger doubt or anxiety. This reaction is understandable, but it does not reflect what is actually happening in the brain.
Why cravings coming and going is normal
Cravings fluctuate because:
- Habits are context-based
- Emotions change throughout the day
- The brain learns through repetition
Each craving is the brain checking whether an old behaviour still applies.
Why cravings do not mean relapse is inevitable
Cravings are signals, not commands.
They often last minutes, not hours. When they pass without vaping, the habit weakens.
Understanding this reduces fear and helps cravings feel less powerful.
When cravings usually appear
Cravings commonly show up:
- In the evening
- During boredom
- After stress
- In familiar routines
This pattern is explained in more depth in why quitting vaping is so hard.
When to seek extra support
If cravings feel overwhelming or constant, additional guidance can help. Most people benefit from understanding the mental side of addiction rather than simply trying to resist urges.
You can find practical steps in the How to Quit Vaping guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for cravings to come back after weeks?
Yes. Cravings returning weeks later is normal because the brain is still adjusting to new routines and encountering old habit cues.
Do fluctuating cravings mean I will relapse?
No. Cravings are signals, not commands. They often last minutes and when they pass without vaping, the habit weakens.
When should I seek extra support?
If cravings feel overwhelming or constant, additional guidance can help. Understanding the mental side of addiction is often more effective than simply trying to resist urges.
Last updated: 7 January 2026