The Dos and Don’ts of Smoking Cigars While Traveling: Etiquette for the Modern Traveller

Cigar smoking and travel go hand in hand for many enthusiasts, whether it’s enjoying a cigar after a long day of sightseeing or lighting one up to celebrate a special moment abroad. However, enjoying a cigar while travelling isn’t just about the enjoyment—it’s about doing so with respect and awareness of the local customs and environments. Just as you wouldn’t light up in the middle of a restaurant without considering others, the same level of courtesy is essential when travelling. This guide will help you navigate the dos and don’ts of smoking cigars on your travels, ensuring you have a pleasant experience while respecting the people and places around you.

The Dos of Smoking Cigars While Traveling

Do Check Local Smoking Laws

Before you start lighting up on your travels, the first rule is to know the rules. Every country, and even different regions within a country, have their own smoking laws. What’s allowed in one place could be entirely forbidden in another. For example, in some European countries, smoking indoors is a strict no-go, whereas in parts of the Caribbean, smoking cigars is a celebrated tradition. Always research your destination’s smoking regulations to avoid unpleasant surprises. A quick online search or asking your hotel concierge can save you from violating local laws, which might come with hefty fines or worse. Check out this link if you’re travelling as a cigar enthusiast.

Do Pack Cigars Properly for Travel

One of the most important aspects of travelling with cigars is ensuring they stay fresh and undamaged during the journey. A good travel humidor is a must-have. These portable cases are designed to keep your cigars at the ideal humidity level, preventing them from drying out or becoming too moist. When flying, it’s wise to pack your cigars in your carry-on luggage to avoid drastic temperature changes in the hold. And, of course, make sure to check your cigars when you arrive, as different climates can affect their condition.

Do Be Mindful of Your Environment

While you may be itching to light up, always be considerate of your surroundings. Many popular travel spots—whether it’s a resort, an airport lounge, or a city park—have designated areas for smoking. Seek them out and use them. This ensures that you’re respecting non-smokers and helps maintain the enjoyment of your cigar without inconveniencing others. In some places, there might even be cigar bars or lounges where you can indulge in the experience with fellow aficionados. If such spaces aren’t available, ensure you’re not smoking in areas where non-smokers or children might be present.

The Don’ts of Smoking Cigars While Traveling

Don’t Smoke in Non-Designated Areas

This is a big one. Whether you’re in a foreign country or your hometown, it’s essential never to smoke in non-designated areas. Public places, transport, and even some outdoor venues can have rules about smoking. Always look for the signs that indicate smoking zones or ask local staff where the designated areas are. Lighting up in the wrong place can lead to fines, uncomfortable situations, or worse, making you appear inconsiderate to those around you.

Don’t Leave Your Cigar Ashes Around

A key part of cigar etiquette is maintaining cleanliness. When travelling, it can be easy to forget that keeping your surroundings neat is just as important as enjoying your cigar. Never leave your cigar butts or ashes lying around, especially in public places. Always use an ashtray, or if one isn’t available, keep a small portable one handy. Many modern cigar smokers carry around travel-sized ashtrays that are both practical and discreet. By cleaning up after yourself, you show respect for the environment and the people around you.

Don’t Overwhelm Non-Smokers with Smoke

One of the biggest challenges for cigar smokers is being considerate of others who may not share the same love for cigars. Strong smoke can be unpleasant for many, so it’s important to choose your smoking spots carefully. Smoking cigars in crowded areas or near non-smokers can be intrusive. If you’re in a public space, always check to see if it’s a designated smoking area and avoid smoking around children or sensitive individuals. A little awareness can go a long way in making sure everyone around you is comfortable.

Vacation with Cigars – How to Select a Travel Humidor

Are you going on vacation and want to relax with a cigar in hand? This can sound like paradise and exactly what you need when you’ve had a stressful couple of months. Unwinding can be exactly what’s necessary to renew and refresh. But, you have to think about how you’re going to get your cigars to your destination. Most airlines and travel companies will allow you to bring some with you. However, you need to ensure they’re stored correctly if you want them to be fresh and enjoyable when you arrive. This is where a travel humidor comes in. Here’s some advice on how you can choose one.

Consider Your Habits

First of all, think about how often you’re likely to smoke cigars. This is going to help you narrow down the number you need to bring on vacation. Then, when you have a number, you can choose an appropriate travel humidor. Some are bigger than others, but they can be more expensive. So, you want to ensure you think about your habits so you don’t overspend or regret the size.

Think About the Vacation Duration

It also helps to think about how long you’re going to be away on your trip. Indeed, the longer you’re away, the more cigars you might need. It can also impact the type of travel humidor you buy. For example, you might need a more sophisticated one if you plan on keeping cigars fresh for a long time.

Understand Your Luggage

don’t forget to consider how much luggage you’re bringing in general. You want to ensure that a travel humidor is going to be compact and the right size if you have a lot of other belongings to bring on the trip.

Conclusion

Travelling with cigars is a wonderful way to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavours of the world. By following these simple dos and don’ts, you’ll not only ensure that your cigar experience is enjoyable, but you’ll also show respect for the places and people you encounter on your travels. So, whether you’re lighting up in a Cuban cigar lounge or taking a relaxing puff in the mountains, remember that good etiquette can make all the difference.