Travel Humidors: How Do They Keep Cigars Fresh?

Travel humidors are designed to maintain optimal conditions for cigars while travelling. They are compact, durable, and prevent cigars from rolling around, getting crushed or damaged. They are typically airtight and watertight, and often include foam lining. Travel humidors are designed to maintain a relative humidity of 70% RH and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can be made from a range of materials, including metal, wood, leather, or plastic, and come in various sizes, with the largest fitting upwards of 80 cigars. They rely on various humidifying elements like humidity packs, pillows, gel beads, and solutions, and some include a built-in hygrometer to monitor relative humidity levels.

Travel humidors vs cigar cases

Travel humidors and cigar cases are both designed to protect your cigars when you're on the move. But there are some key differences between the two.

Travel Humidors

Travel humidors are designed to keep your cigars at their optimal humidity level while you're travelling. They are usually made from hard plastics, leather, or fine woods such as mahogany, cherry or maple, and can hold anywhere from a single cigar up to 40 or more. They often feature foam inserts to protect your cigars from bumps and knocks, and some are even waterproof and crushproof.

Travel humidors are typically used for short periods of transit or stays away from home. They are not usually suitable for long-term storage, as they tend to offer little storage space relative to their size.

When choosing a travel humidor, consider how many cigars you want to carry, your travel conditions (are you going on outdoor adventures or business trips?), and what features you want, such as waterproofing or crushproofing.

Cigar Cases

Cigar cases are more like wallets or passport cases, and are designed to hold a few cigars for shorter excursions. They are often made from luxury leather and are intended to be elegant and convenient, freeing up room in your briefcase, handbag or pockets.

When choosing a cigar case, look for features such as a durable metal zipper, room to store cigar accessories, and smart add-ons like a pocket for business cards.

Travel humidors and cigar cases serve a similar purpose, but travel humidors tend to be more functional and durable, while cigar cases are more stylish and convenient. Most cigar aficionados invest in both, as there is room in your life for the two.

Humidification methods

Travel humidors are designed to maintain optimal conditions for cigars, typically around 70% relative humidity and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The humidification method used in a travel humidor depends on its design and materials.

Some travel humidors feature a humidifier in the lid of the case, while others rely on disposable humidifying elements like Boveda packs, pillows, gel beads, or solutions. Boveda packs, in particular, are a popular choice as they are low-maintenance, effective, and safe to touch cigars. They also come in different humidity levels, ranging from 62% to 72% RH, and can last for several months.

For travel humidors with a built-in humidifier, it is important to use distilled water or propylene glycol solution to prevent the introduction of mold to the cigars. Soaking the humidifier in distilled water or using a small amount of propylene glycol solution without creating a puddle inside the humidor is recommended.

The position of the humidifier within the travel humidor is also crucial. In standard travel humidors, the humidifier is often located in the lid, which can lead to uneven humidification. To improve this, stick humidifiers can be placed next to the cigars with the evaporation surface pointing towards the lid, increasing the distance between the cigars and the evaporation source. Additionally, storing cigars in aluminium tubes or inserting a piece of cedar veneer between the humidifier and the cigars can help regulate moisture levels.

For travel humidors with a cradle system, the same principles apply – maintaining distance between the humidifier and cigars and using tubes or cedar veneers to regulate moisture.

Overall, the key to effective humidification in a travel humidor is finding the right balance between the number of cigars, the position of the humidifier, and the use of appropriate humidifying elements or solutions.

Travel humidor features

Travel humidors are designed to maintain optimal conditions for keeping cigars fresh, typically at around 70% relative humidity and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They are usually compact and made of durable materials to prevent cigars from getting damaged or crushed in transit. Many travel humidors include a foam lining to prevent cigars from rolling around.

Types of Travel Humidors

Standard Travel Humidors

Standard travel humidors are essentially mini humidors that can be made from a variety of materials, such as metal, wood, leather, or plastic. The interior is often lined with Spanish cedar, and the exterior can be decorative. However, standard travel humidors may not effectively prevent cigars from moving around during travel, and the positioning of the humidifier can lead to uneven humidification.

Travel Humidors with Cradles

Travel humidors with concave grooves or cradles are a more effective design for securing cigars during travel. These cradles prevent cigars from sliding or moving around, even in the event of heavy impact. However, the positioning of the humidifier in these humidors can still be problematic, and additional measures may be needed to maintain proper humidity levels.

Proper Travel Humidors

Proper travel humidors, often made of aluminium or ABS plastic, may not be aesthetically pleasing, but they offer superior protection for cigars. These humidors are highly durable, with odourless foam cradles that securely hold cigars in place. However, the positioning of the humidifier in the lid can lead to over-humidification of the top layer of cigars.

Humidification Methods for Travel Humidors

Boveda Packs

Boveda packs are a popular and convenient option for travel humidors. They maintain a predetermined relative humidity level and can be placed directly with the cigars without causing any harm. Boveda packs last for several months and are available in different sizes to accommodate varying quantities of cigars.

Propylene Glycol and Distilled Water

Some travel humidors come with a humidification unit that can be charged with propylene glycol solution or distilled water. It is important to use distilled water to avoid introducing mould to the cigars. The humidifier should be soaked or filled without creating excess moisture inside the humidor. Monitoring humidity levels with a hygrometer is recommended but may not be feasible due to space constraints.

Additional Considerations for Travel Humidors

Cigar Protection

When choosing a travel humidor, consider the level of protection it offers against physical damage. Some humidors feature locked compartments, indestructible casings, or waterproof and airtight seals. For added protection, choose a humidor with a cradle or foam padding to secure cigars in place.

Humidification Elements

Different travel humidors utilise various humidification elements, such as humidity packs, pillows, gel beads, or solutions. Ensure you follow the recommended cigar-to-humidor-pack ratios and have extra packs on hand, especially for extended travel.

Size and Portability

Travel humidors vary in size, from small cases that hold a few cigars to larger ones that can accommodate upwards of 80 cigars. Consider your travel needs and the level of portability required. Smaller cases are more convenient for short trips, while larger humidors are ideal for long-term travel and storing a larger collection.

Cigar protection

Travel humidors maintain optimal conditions for cigars by keeping them fresh at around 70% relative humidity and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This prevents cigars from becoming dry or losing their flavour and integrity.

To ensure cigars remain in optimal condition, travel humidors should be airtight and watertight. They should also be made of robust materials that can withstand shocks and crushing. Strong latches and locking mechanisms also help to keep cigars secure during transport.

When choosing a travel humidor, it is important to consider the size and capacity, as well as the type of humidifier and sealing system. A well-designed travel humidor will have a constant relative humidity level, protect cigars from damage, and be suitable for transporting a range of cigar formats.

Overall, travel humidors provide essential protection for cigars during travel, ensuring they remain fresh and undamaged.

Cigar accessories

Cigars are one of life's greatest pleasures, and the right accessories can elevate the experience to new heights. Here are some essential cigar accessories to enhance your smoking experience:

Cigar Cutters

A good cigar cutter is an essential tool for any cigar enthusiast. It allows you to cut the end of the cigar cleanly and precisely, enhancing the smoking experience. Cigar cutters come in various styles, such as guillotine cutters, V-cutters, and classical stainless steel scissors. Choose one that fits your style and budget.

Cigar Lighters

A reliable cigar lighter is crucial for an enjoyable smoke. Torch lighters, such as those offered by Xikar, Colibri, Jetline, and Lotus, are popular choices for their beautiful design, powerful flames, and functional components. These lighters ensure a consistent and even light, enhancing the flavour and aroma of your cigar.

Cigar Ashtrays

A stylish and functional cigar ashtray is a must-have accessory. Available in various shapes, sizes, and materials, a well-designed ashtray enhances the aesthetics and overall smoking experience. Look for ashtrays made from premium materials that complement your smoking environment.

Cigar Cases

When travelling, a cigar case is essential for protecting your cigars. Look for a durable case with a crushproof design and a foam lining to prevent your cigars from rolling around. The Xikar Travel Humidor is a popular option, offering different capacities and featuring an airtight and watertight seal.

Cigar Humidors

Cigar humidors are essential for maintaining the optimal conditions for your cigars. They regulate humidity and temperature to keep your cigars fresh and preserve their integrity and flavour. Travel humidors, such as the Xikar and Colibri models, are designed to be compact and durable, making them ideal for taking your favourite cigars on vacation.

Boveda Packs

Boveda packs are an easy and convenient way to maintain the desired humidity level in your travel humidor. These packs last for several months and ensure a consistent relative humidity (RH) between 62% and 72%. They are low-maintenance and eliminate the need for frequent monitoring and maintenance.

With the right cigar accessories, you can elevate your smoking experience, impress your company, and savour the flavour and aroma of your favourite cigars. These accessories not only enhance the enjoyment of your cigars but also add a touch of sophistication and ritual to your smoking ritual.

Frequently asked questions