Checklist: What Stuff Do You Need for Hookah?

Getting into hookah requires a specific set of gear. Think of this guide as your Ultimate Hookah Shopping List. We will cover exactly what to buy to build a pro-level setup, focusing on materials and quality.

Already have your gear? If you have bought everything and are ready to smoke, switch over to our How to Set Up a Hookah Guide for step-by-step assembly instructions.

The Essential Hookah Shopping List - Hardware (One-Time Buy):

• [ ] Hookah Pipe (Stem, Base, Tray)

• [ ] Hose (Washable Silicone recommended)

• [ ] Bowl (Phunnel style recommended)

• [ ] Tongs (Long metal tongs)

• [ ] Electric Burner (1100W Coil Burner)

Consumables (Recurring Buy):

• [ ] Shisha Tobacco (Blonde or Dark Leaf)

• [ ] Natural Coconut Coals (Cubed or Flats)

• [ ] Aluminum Foil (Heavy Duty) OR HMD (Heat Management Device)

• [ ] Mouth Tips (If sharing with friends)

So what do you need for a hookah set?

Before diving into the extras, the centerpiece of your setup is, of course, the hookah pipe itself. A complete hookah set typically includes the base, stem, downstem, hose port(s), and a standard bowl. When choosing your hookah, consider factors like size, material, and the number of hoses you desire. Ensure all hookah parts are in good condition and fit snugly to create an airtight seal, which is crucial for optimal smoke production.

How much does a hookah setup cost?

The Hookah Tobacco (Shisha)

What to Buy: Instead of just grabbing a random tin, you need to choose between Blonde Leaf and Dark Leaf tobacco based on your tolerance.

• Blonde Leaf (Recommended for Beginners): This is washed tobacco with lower nicotine (0.05%). It is lighter, sweeter, and easier to handle. Look for brands like Adalya, Al Fakher, or Starbuzz.

• Dark Leaf (For Experts): Unwashed tobacco with high nicotine content. It provides a heavy "head buzz" and robust tobacco notes. Brands like Tangiers and MustHave fall into this category.

• Storage Tip: Buy airtight containers. Shisha is moist; if it dries out, the flavor dies.

The Hookah Coal

What to Buy: The single biggest mistake beginners make is buying "Quick Light" coals (the round tablets). Do not buy these. They add a chemical taste to your session.

• The Standard: Buy Natural Coconut Charcoal (cubes or flats). They are odorless, tasteless, and burn for up to 60 minutes.

• The Requirement: Natural coals do not light with a lighter. You must purchase an Electric Coil Burner (1100W) to heat them properly.

Hookah Tongs

What to Buy: Don't settle for the tiny, flimsy tongs that come free in the box.

• Look for Length: Get tongs that are at least 8-10 inches long to keep your fingers away from the heat.

• Look for Grip: "Poker" style tongs are good for poking holes, but "Sawtooth" or "Hammer" style tongs are better for gripping square coconut cubes securely so you don't drop burning coal on your floor.

Hookah Bowl

What to Buy: Most hookah sets come with a standard "Egyptian Clay Bowl" (holes in the bottom). We highly recommend upgrading immediately to a Phunnel Bowl.

• Why Phunnel? A Phunnel bowl has a single raised spire in the center. This design traps the molasses inside the bowl, preventing it from dripping down your stem. This keeps your shisha juicy for longer and produces thicker clouds.

• Material: Look for high-quality clay or stoneware (like Alpaca or HookahJohn bowls) rather than silicone or thin ceramic.

Heat Management Device (HMD)

What to Buy: While you can use aluminum foil, an HMD is the single best upgrade for a modern setup.

• The Benefit: Devices like the AOT Provost or Kaloud Lotus sit on top of your bowl. They regulate airflow and protect your tobacco from direct contact with the coal, making it much harder to accidentally burn your shisha.

• The Verdict: If you have the budget, skip the foil and buy an HMD.

Mouthpiece

What to Buy: Hygiene is key, especially in group settings.

• Disposable Tips: Buy a bag of 50 or 100 plastic tips if you plan on hosting parties.

• Personal Lanyards: For a premium feel, invest in a reusable Resin or Metal Mouthpiece on a lanyard. This is "your" tip that you carry with you to lounges or friends' houses.

Hookah Hose

What to Buy: Many traditional hookahs come with non-washable leather hoses. Replace this immediately.

• The Golden Rule: Only buy a Soft-Touch Silicone Hose.

• Why? Silicone is 100% washable. If you smoke "Double Apple" today and "Mint" tomorrow, you can rinse a silicone hose with hot water to remove the ghosted flavor. Traditional hoses will retain old flavors forever and eventually rust inside.

Hookah Accessories (Nice-to-Haves)

Once you have the essentials, these upgrades will make your life easier:

• Hose Spring: Prevents your silicone hose from kinking and blocking airflow.

• Cleaning Kit: You need a Base Brush (large) for the glass and a Stem Brush (long and thin) to scrub the metal pipe.

• Diffuser: A small attachment for the bottom of your stem. It breaks large bubbles into tiny ones, making your hookah whisper-quiet and the draw much smoother.

Where to Buy Your Hookah Supplies

You can find most of these hookah supplies at various locations:

1. Dedicated Hookah Shops: These are your best bet for a wide selection, expert advice, and often unique or premium items.

2. Tobacco Stores: Many tobacco stores carry basic hookah sets, hookah tobacco, and hookah coals.

3. Online Retailers: The internet offers a vast marketplace for all your hookah needs, often with competitive pricing and a wider selection than local hookah stores.You can find everything from complete hookahs to specific hookah parts and a plethora of hookah flavors.

4. Hookah Bars: While primarily for smoking, some hookah bars also sell hookah accessories and hookah tobacco.

By ensuring you have all the items on this checklist, you'll be well-equipped to enjoy countless relaxing and flavorful hookah sessions. From the hookah pipe itself to the essential hookah charcoals and your favorite hookah tobacco, each component plays a vital role in the overall experience. So, gather your hookah supplies, choose your best hookah flavors, and get ready to savor the rich tradition of hookah smoking. Remember to always purchase your tobacco for hookah and other supplies from reputable sources to ensure quality and safety.

Once you have checked off this list, follow our step-by-step Hookah Setup Guide to get smoking.