It’s a dilemma for all cigar lovers: when travelling, whether for business or for pleasure, do you take some cigars with you? The problem is you may not have access to a reputable cigar shop at your destination. Or, you may not be willing to pay the excessive taxes that are levied in some places on what are classed a luxury goods.
The answer is, of course, to pack some cigars for your journey, but you should know that cigars do not necessarily travel well! Before we give you some tips on how best to carry your cigars on an aeroplane, let’s talk about the question we asked in the title: can you take your cigar cutter on a plane?
What You Can Carry on a Plane
The general rule is that a cigar cutter should be permitted on an aeroplane, although we strongly advise you check with the airline first. We also advise that if you are not sure, and you don’t want your expensive top quality cutter to be confiscated, you buy a cheap throw-away cutter for the journey.
There is often confusion in some places as to what is and is not permitted, so it is always best to include your quality cigar cutter – if you are intent on carrying it with you – in your checked luggage. This way, you are covered in the eventuality of any such confusion or local regulations.
So, now that we have established you can – in most cases – take a cigar cutter on the plane with you, what about cigars?
How To Travel with Cigars
As you will already know, fine cigars need careful handling. You will likely keep yours in a humidor when at home, so how can you travel with cigars and keep them in top condition?
First things first, never check your cigars in with your luggage. If they are put in the hold of the aircraft they will be subject to extreme temperature fluctuations. This will – most certainly – damage your cigars beyond use. Therefore, you need to protect them from being crushed in your hand luggage in the overhead locker!
There are ways you can do this; we suggest you check out a travel humidor such as this one which is designed for 5 cigars. There are others that can handle more. These are specially designed for taking cigars on the move, and are tough and durable so your cigars will stay in one piece.
If you are going on a short journey and don’t want to buy a travel humidor, a Ziplock bag will do the job but make sure you pack it in a hard outer case or it will likely be crushed. We do, however, suggest you check out travel humidors, as there are some excellent models to choose from at sensible prices.
So, here’s hoping we’ve cleared up the main question: you can travel with a cigar cutter on a plane, but make sure with the airline beforehand, and beware of local regulations. If at all possible, take a cheap cigar cutter, so if it does get confiscated, you’ve lost nothing.