Choosing the right cigar travel case

By Gary Korb

Most avid cigar smokers won't leave home without taking some of their favorite cigars with them. But before you board that plane, train or automobile, you'll need a portable storage case that will keep your precious cargo out of harm's way. Travel cases come in practically every style and material you can imagine. Whether it's a travel humidor or a simple, two-fingered leather case, it must do at least two things: 1) protect your cigars, and 2) keep them fresh. Just as important is selecting a case that will properly hold the cigar size and style you smoke.

Let's start with pocket cigar cases. Telescoping "finger" cases are good for long cigars, but fingered cases can cause problems if you're toting cigars with different ring gauges. Most telescoping fingered cases are designed to hold a wide range of ring sizes, but are better suited for cigars of similar ring gauge since they tend not to be very flexible. When selecting a fingered case, be sure to choose the size best suited for the cigar size you smoke.

Fortunately, there are also many pocket cigar cases that come without fingers. But because there are no "fingers" (slots) to hold the cigars separately, unless, the fit is snug, or the case is completely filled, the cigars may slide around a little.

Be sure the case slides open easily and that the inside is smooth, especially if you're looking at leather cases, which can also add a leathery taste to your smokes. Another drawback to leather cases is, unless the cigars are kept in their cellos, the leather may suck some of the moisture out of your cigars if left in the case too long. However, there are some pocket cases that include small humidifiers to ensure your cigars will stay fresh.

An alternative to the leather case would be a wooden or metal tube style case. Moreover, the latter type can often keep your cigars fresh for up to three days. The trade-off is these types of cases can be heavier, which doesn't make them practical as true pocket cases.

Travel cigar humidor cases come in a variety of sizes, materials and price ranges, too. The better cases come with a humidification device and are lined with cedar and foam insulation to maintain a "home humidor" environment and protect the cigars from damage. These are great for extended trips. Some manufacturers also sell accessory kits for customizing your travel humidor. Note that some cases come with pre-formed slots to hold your cigars firmly in-place, Cases without slots may cause your cigars to roll around if they get jostled.

So, before you decide which case is right for your particular travel needs, kick the tires; inspect the case for size, quality of materials, and functionality. The rule of "caveat emptor" greatly applies here. You've invested good money in your cigars. Protect them properly and they'll love you back.

Finally, don't forget to put any un-smoked cigars back in your humidor when you return home from your trip.   (_[ca]__{{{

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For questions about any of the cigar travel cases sold at Famous Smoke Shop, please call customer service at 800-672-5544 and they'll help you choose the right case for you.