Yes, you can vape without a driptip. I find it a little less satisfying, but it can be done. Sorry to hear about your issue with the driptip. If funds are an issue, Fasttech sells plenty of driptips in many styles, though you may have to wait a little while to get it. Just check out the diameters and whether it will fit your tank, but really you don't have to have an "authentic" driptip, I switch mine out all the time....
Good luck,
Anna