Travel Cigar Humidor: Best Affordable Options

Travel humidors are a must-have for cigar enthusiasts who want to bring their favourite cigars on their travels. They are designed to maintain optimal conditions for cigars, ensuring they stay fresh at around 70% RH (relative humidity) and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. When choosing a travel humidor, it is important to consider factors such as capacity, price, and features like being waterproof, crushproof, and airtight.

One of the most popular travel humidor models is the Xikar Travel Humidor, known for its durability and compact design. It is made from crushproof ABS-molded plastic, with a stainless steel hinge, and heavy-duty latches, ensuring an airtight and watertight environment. The Xikar Travel Humidor also includes a small humidifier or a Boveda pack to maintain the desired humidity levels.

For those seeking a more affordable option, the Boveda One-Year Humidor Bag offers a versatile and effective solution. These bags are made from barrier-laminated plastic and provide a year's worth of humidity control when used correctly. They are lightweight and easy to fit into luggage, making them a convenient choice for travellers.

Other notable travel humidors include the CiTree Travel Humidor, known for its stylish leather exterior and Spanish cedar lining, and the Cigar Caddy 40, a sturdy and secure option that is waterproof, crushproof, and airtight.

When preparing a travel humidor for use, it is important to season it by adding a humidification solution or distilled water to the humidifier. This ensures that the desired humidity levels are maintained during your travels, keeping your cigars fresh and ready to smoke.

How to choose the best travel humidor

When choosing a travel humidor, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Capacity

How many cigars do you typically want to travel with? Travel humidors come in various sizes, ranging from those that hold just a few cigars to larger ones that can accommodate up to 50 or more. Consider your usual smoking habits and the duration of your trips to determine the ideal capacity.

Price

Travel humidors cater to a wide range of budgets, from affordable options to premium, luxury choices. Determine how much you are willing to spend, keeping in mind that a higher price doesn't always guarantee better quality.

Durability and Protection

Look for a travel humidor that offers adequate protection for your cigars. Consider features such as waterproof, crushproof, and airtight properties. ABS moulded plastic is a common material choice for its durability and lightweight nature. Some humidors also include foam padding or liners to prevent cigars from rolling around and provide additional cushioning.

Portability

The size and weight of the travel humidor will impact its portability. If you plan to carry it in your backpack or briefcase, opt for a more compact and lightweight option. Consider the ease of transport, especially if you travel frequently or engage in outdoor activities like hiking or camping.

Humidification

Maintaining the right humidity levels is crucial for keeping your cigars fresh. Look for travel humidors that come with built-in humidifiers or include Boveda packs, which are known for their two-way humidity control. Alternatively, you can opt for a travel humidor that allows you to use your preferred humidification method, such as propylene glycol solution or distilled water.

Aesthetics

While functionality is essential, you may also want to consider the style and design of the travel humidor. Leather or fabric exteriors can add a touch of elegance, making your humidor a sophisticated accessory when attending social events.

Additional Features

Some travel humidors offer extra features like hygrometers, which help monitor humidity levels, or safety valves for air travel. Consider your specific needs and whether these additional features will enhance your overall experience.

Brand Reputation

Opt for reputable brands known for their quality and durability. Reading reviews from fellow cigar enthusiasts can also provide valuable insights into the performance and longevity of different travel humidors.

Pros and cons of travel humidors

Travel humidors are designed to safely hold your cigars while you're on the move. They are lightweight, robust, and can be a stylish accessory when carrying your cigars to social events. However, they are not ideal for long-term storage, as they are designed for short periods of transit. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if a travel humidor is right for you:

Pros:

• Portability: Travel humidors are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for commuting, plane travel, or outdoor activities like hiking.
• Protection: These humidors protect your cigars from damage caused by changes in humidity or temperature, ensuring they stay fresh and tasty.
• Airtight Seal: A good travel humidor will have an airtight seal to maintain the necessary interior environment and retain moisture.
• Crush-proof and Waterproof: Superior travel humidors are crush-proof and waterproof, providing extra protection for your cigars during travel.
• Strong Latches: Travel humidors have strong latches to prevent accidental openings when carried in your luggage or by hand.
• Safety Valves: Some advanced travel humidors feature safety valves for air travel, preventing the box from breaking under low pressure.
• Fashionable Accessory: Travel humidors can be a stylish and swanky accessory, especially when attending social events or meetings.

Cons:

• Limited Storage: Travel humidors often have limited storage space compared to their size due to the foam cushioning inside. This can result in overfilling, which may crush the cigars.
• Not Airtight: Many travel humidors on the market do not have truly airtight seals, which can lead to underperformance and a quicker loss of moisture.
• Bulkier than Small Cases: While travel humidors are more robust and spacious than small cases, they are still bulkier and may not be as convenient for very short trips.
• High-maintenance: Travel humidors require regular maintenance, such as calibrating the hygrometer and hydrating the humidifier.
• Not Suitable for Long-term Storage: Travel humidors are designed for short-term storage and transportation, and may not be suitable for long-term cigar storage.

How to use a travel humidor

Travel humidors are a great way to transport your cigars safely and keep them fresh and ready to smoke. Here's a guide on how to use a travel humidor:

Choosing the Right Travel Humidor

First, determine your needs. If you travel often and for long periods, or if you smoke cigars during your trips, consider a small travel humidor that can hold 10-15 cigars. If you usually buy a lot of cigars during your travels, opt for a larger cigar case that can accommodate up to 50 cigars. Also, check if the humidor has space to store your lighter and cutter. Look for travel cigar humidors made of reinforced plastic, like the Cigar Caddy, which are shock-resistant and provide adequate protection.

Seasoning and Preparing Your Travel Humidor

If your travel humidor is made of wood, especially cedar, it will require seasoning. Seasoning helps to ensure that the wood can absorb humidity and maintain a consistent level. Place a humidifier or Boveda pack inside the humidor and close it for a day or two to allow the wood to absorb moisture. If using a humidifier, charge it with propylene glycol solution or distilled water. Avoid using tap or bottled water as they can introduce mould to your cigars. Ensure the humidity level reaches and maintains 70% RH for a few days before placing your cigars inside.

Packing and Storing Cigars in the Travel Humidor

When packing cigars in the travel humidor, ensure the separators inside are correctly positioned to keep the cigars in place and prevent their wrappers from touching or getting damaged. Most travel humidors have foam lining to prevent the cigars from rolling around. If using Boveda packs, choose the appropriate humidity level (62%-72% RH) and use enough packs to cover the number of cigars you're storing. A single 60-gram pack is enough for 25 cigars, while smaller 8-gram packs are suitable for smaller quantities.

Maintaining and Caring for Your Travel Humidor

Regularly clean all surfaces of your travel humidor to avoid dust accumulation. When travelling with your humidor, avoid exposure to direct sunlight and keep it in a cool, dry place. Use distilled water to fill the reservoir and maintain a humidity level of around 70% RH. If travelling for extended periods, recharge the humidifier with distilled water as needed.

Travel humidor maintenance

Travel humidors are a great way to transport your cigars safely and keep them fresh. Here are some tips on how to maintain your travel humidor to ensure optimal performance and keep your cigars in the best condition:

• Seasoning: Before using a new travel humidor, it is important to season it. Seasoning allows the wood inside the humidor to absorb moisture, creating the optimal environment for storing cigars. Different approaches to seasoning include using a new sponge with distilled water to wipe the inside of the humidor or placing a small dish of distilled water inside and waiting a few days. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions to determine the best method for your specific humidor.
• Maintain Humidity Levels: It is crucial to maintain the right humidity levels in your travel humidor. The ideal relative humidity for cigars is between 65-75% RH. Check the humidity levels regularly, especially before storing your cigars. If the humidity drops below 65%, add distilled water or a specialty solution to the humidor. Avoid using tap water as it can contain minerals and chlorine that can clog your humidifier.
• Monitor Temperature: In addition to humidity, temperature also plays a vital role in maintaining your travel humidor. Keep your humidor in a cool, dry place, ideally with a temperature between 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid direct sunlight as it can cause the temperature to rise, potentially damaging your cigars.
• Use a Hygrometer: Consider investing in a hygrometer to accurately monitor the humidity levels in your travel humidor. This device will help you keep your cigars in their optimal condition and alert you when adjustments are needed.
• Regular Cleaning: Clean your travel humidor regularly to prevent the build-up of dust and stains. Use a microfiber towel or soft cotton cloth to gently wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning solutions, especially on satin-finished humidors, as they can damage the finish.
• Prevent Warping: To prevent the lid of your travel humidor from warping, avoid placing it under direct sunlight or spot lighting. Also, ensure that your humidor is not subjected to drastic temperature changes, as this can affect the integrity of the wood.
• Protect from Insects: Maintain the right humidity and temperature levels to prevent tobacco beetle infestations. These pests can hatch if the conditions are too warm and humid. Infestations can destroy your cigars, so it is crucial to monitor the environment inside your travel humidor regularly.
• Use a Humidification Device: Consider using a humidification device, such as a Boveda pack or a Prometheus Optima Mini Humidifier, to maintain the desired humidity levels in your travel humidor. These devices are designed to release moisture when needed and absorb excess moisture to prevent over-humidification.
• Monitor Cigar Placement: Ensure that your cigars do not block the vents inside your travel humidor. Proper airflow is essential to maintain the right humidity and temperature levels.
• Recharge Humidifier: If you are travelling for an extended period, remember to recharge your humidifier with distilled water to maintain the desired humidity levels.
• Choose the Right Storage: When not in use, store your travel humidor in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ensure that the cigars are not exposed to extreme temperatures, as this can affect their quality.

Best travel humidor brands

Travel humidors are a great way to transport cigars safely and keep them fresh. They are usually compact and made of durable materials to prevent damage and crushing. Most include a foam lining to prevent the cigars from rolling around.

Xikar

Xikar is a reputable brand in the cigar industry, and its travel humidors are highly regarded. The Xikar Travel Humidor is one of the most popular models, with a crushproof ABS-moulded plastic exterior, a stainless steel back hinge, and heavy-duty front latches. It has a small humidifier and is available in 5, 10, or 15-cigar capacity.

Boveda

Boveda is known for its humidity packs and bags, which are versatile and effective solutions for cigar storage. The Boveda Humidor Bag is lightweight and easy to fit in luggage, and it provides the same protection as a plastic container. The small version can hold three to four cigars, while the larger bags can fit several boxes.

CiTree

The CiTree Travel Humidor is an excellent choice for those looking for a fashionable case. It has a refined leather-clad exterior and is lined with Spanish cedar, ensuring optimal smoking conditions. It includes a metal cigar cutter and a triple-jet lighter, each with its own leather pocket. The CiTree humidor typically costs around $70.

Davidoff

Davidoff offers a luxurious Italian-made travel humidor constructed from knitted Jacquard fabric and leather, welded together for an airtight seal. It features a pull-out tray with a flexible wave design to protect each cigar and a hidden magnetic clasp. The Davidoff travel humidor typically costs around $280.

Colibri

Colibri offers a range of premium travel humidors, including the Colibri Explorer, a reasonably-sized case made from Saffiano leather. It can hold up to 12 Churchill cigars and offers a superior seal. The Colibri Explorer typically costs around $290.

Amancy

Amancy offers a stylish and functional travel humidor set. The exterior is made of thick cedar wood with a brown faux leather finish, while the interior is lined with cedar. It includes a refillable 2-jet flame lighter, a premium cigar cutter, and a dropper. The Amancy travel humidor typically costs around $23.

These brands provide a range of options in terms of style, capacity, and price, ensuring that you can find the perfect travel humidor to suit your needs.

Frequently asked questions