Cigars At Airports: Real Or Fake?

Cigars are a popular purchase for travellers, and many airports have duty-free shops that sell them. However, it's important to be cautious when buying cigars at airport shops, as the quality and authenticity can vary. While some airports have excellent cigar shops with a wide selection and proper humidity control, others may have overpriced or poorly maintained cigars. It's also important to be aware of any restrictions or regulations on purchasing and transporting cigars, especially when travelling internationally. In this regard, it is always good to do your research beforehand.

Cigars in airport shops are often real, but it's buyer beware

Cigars are a popular purchase for travellers, and many airports have a tobacconist or duty-free shop where you can buy them. However, it's important to be cautious when buying cigars at the airport, as the quality and authenticity of the products can vary.

Firstly, it's worth noting that duty-free cigars may not always be the bargain they appear to be. While they are tax-exempt, the base price of cigars at duty-free shops can sometimes be higher than in regular stores, so it's a good idea to research prices before you buy. Additionally, the selection of cigars at duty-free shops can be limited, and the shops themselves may be crowded and have less-than-ideal storage conditions for cigars, such as poor climate control and high humidity.

When it comes to authenticity, it's important to be wary of fake cigars, especially when purchasing Cuban cigars. Due to restrictions on importing Cuban tobacco products into certain countries, such as the United States, travellers may be tempted to buy Cuban cigars while abroad and attempt to bring them back. However, doing so carries the risk of confiscation by customs officials. Even within Cuba, it can be challenging to find authentic cigars, as vendors often sell fakes to tourists.

To ensure you're getting a genuine product, it's recommended to do your research beforehand and know what the cigars you want should look like. Inspect the cigars before purchasing, and only buy from reputable shops or downtown stores, rather than street vendors. If you're unsure about a particular shop, it's better to be cautious and look for cigars elsewhere.

Overall, while it's possible to find real cigars at airport shops, it's essential to be a cautious buyer. By doing your research, knowing what to look for, and inspecting the cigars before purchase, you can increase your chances of getting a genuine product.

You can buy duty-free cigars when leaving a country or region

If you're a cigar enthusiast, you'll know that cigars at duty-free shops in airports are often a good selection, but not always a great bargain. However, if you're only visiting one place, the prices at duty-free stores in airports are likely to be the best you'll find, even if not by a lot.

Duty-free cigars, like other duty-free goods, are products that carry no taxes. You can usually purchase these cigars only as you travel out of the country or region in which they're available to get the duty-free price. For example, if you're flying out of Amsterdam's Schipol Airport, you'll pay duty if you're staying in the Netherlands or travelling on to another European Union (EU) country. However, if you're flying out of the EU, you avoid the taxes. So, it's best to buy duty-free cigars when travelling out of the EU or a particular region.

There are exceptions to this rule, as some airports allow you to buy duty-free cigars upon entering the country. For instance, travellers have reported being able to buy about 10 Cuban cigars upon arrival at airports in Mexico. Although the prices might not be great, there are often special sales. Therefore, it's always worth asking if you can buy duty-free cigars when entering a country.

When purchasing cigars, especially Cuban ones, it's important to know what you want and what to look for. It's recommended to ask the salesperson to open the box and inspect the cigars yourself, as most salespeople in these stores know little about cigars.

Additionally, if you're travelling with cigars, it's worth noting that the number of cigars allowed per travelling adult differs for duty-free and taxed purchases. For instance, at Cigar Country, up to 50 cigars can be shipped duty-free, while travellers can carry up to 100 cigars per adult duty-free when travelling internationally.

Cigars bought duty-free entering a country may be taxed

Cigars are available at airport shops, but their authenticity may vary. It is recommended to purchase cigars from legitimate stores or duty-free shops at the airport instead of street vendors to ensure their authenticity.

When it comes to duty-free cigar purchases, it's important to note that the exemption from customs duty is specific to the country in which the duty-free shop is located. This means that if you buy cigars in a duty-free shop abroad and bring them into your destination country, you may be subject to customs duty upon entry. The same applies to duty-free purchases made in your home country; if you bring those items back into your home country from abroad, they will be subject to customs duty and taxes.

For example, in the United States, returning residents are allowed to import tobacco products in limited quantities. For cigars, the limit is 100 cigars per adult, and any quantities exceeding the personal exemption are subject to detention, seizure, penalties, abandonment, and destruction. Similarly, in France, there are restrictions on the amount of tobacco that can be brought into the country. Returning residents to France can bring a maximum of 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars without incurring customs duties.

It's important to be mindful of the specific regulations and restrictions of the country you are entering when carrying duty-free cigars. To avoid any issues, it is recommended to declare your purchases and be prepared to pay any applicable taxes or duties.

Cigars are allowed in carry-on luggage, but not cigar cutters

Cigars are allowed in carry-on luggage but not cigar cutters. This is because cigar cutters are considered sharp objects and can pose a security threat. While cigar cutters are generally permitted, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends packing them in checked baggage. Ultimately, the decision rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint, who has the discretion to prohibit any item they believe could be dangerous.

When travelling with cigars, it is important to invest in a sturdy and robust travel humidor or travel case to protect your cigars from damage. The case should also be lightweight to avoid impacting your weight allowance. Additionally, it is recommended to get a case with some capacity for maintaining humidity to counteract the dryness of pressurised cabin air, which can negatively affect cigars, especially on long flights.

In terms of lighters, soft-flame lighters are typically allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage, while torch lighters are prohibited on planes, even when empty. Butane cans are also forbidden, but boxes of matches are generally permitted. It is advisable to carry a less expensive cutter and lighter when travelling to avoid the risk of confiscation by security.

When it comes to purchasing cigars, it is important to be cautious, especially when buying from street vendors or in destinations known for counterfeit products. To ensure the authenticity of cigars, it is recommended to buy from legitimate stores or duty-free shops.

Cigar cutters and cigars should be stored separately

It is unclear whether the cigars sold at airport shops are authentic. Some travellers have reported that cigars purchased from duty-free shops at airports are "a little overpriced" compared to buying them in Europe, but they are genuine. In contrast, others have warned against purchasing cigars from street vendors, as they are likely to be fake.

Now, let's discuss the importance of storing cigar cutters and cigars separately:

Maintaining the Quality of Cigars and Cutters:

The primary reason for storing cigar cutters separately from cigars is to preserve the quality of both the cigars and the cutter. Cigars are sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature, and they require careful storage in a humidor to maintain optimal conditions. On the other hand, cigar cutters, especially those made of metal, are susceptible to rust and corrosion if exposed to excessive moisture. Therefore, by storing them separately, you can ensure that the cigars receive the necessary humidity while keeping the cutter dry.

Preventing Rust and Corrosion:

Moisture is the enemy of metal, and cigar cutters with metal blades can quickly become damaged if exposed to humid environments. Storing them separately from cigars helps prevent rust and corrosion on the cutter's blades. This is crucial for maintaining the sharpness and precision of the cutter, as rusted or corroded blades can affect the quality of the cut and, consequently, the smoking experience.

Avoiding Contamination:

Cigars are known to absorb surrounding scents and flavours, and they can be easily affected by the presence of strong odours or chemicals. Storing cigar cutters separately helps prevent the transfer of any unwanted odours or substances from the cutter to the cigars. This is especially important if the cutter has been used and may have traces of tobacco or other substances on its blades.

Convenience and Accessibility:

Storing cigar cutters and cigars separately also offers practical benefits. By dedicating specific storage spaces for each, you can create a more organised setup. This makes it easier to locate and access your cigars and cutters when needed. Additionally, storing cutters separately can help prevent accidents or damage caused by knocking over a cutter stored within a humidor.

Preserving the Integrity of the Humidor:

Humidors are designed to maintain a consistent humidity level to preserve the freshness and quality of cigars. By storing the cigar cutter separately, you avoid introducing foreign objects that could disrupt the delicate balance of humidity within the humidor. This helps maintain the integrity of the humidor's environment, ensuring that your cigars age gracefully and maintain their optimal flavour and aroma.

In conclusion, storing cigar cutters and cigars separately is essential for several reasons. It helps preserve the quality of both the cigars and the cutter, prevents rust and corrosion, avoids contamination, offers convenience and accessibility, and maintains the integrity of the humidor's environment. By following these storage practices, cigar enthusiasts can ensure the optimal condition and enjoyment of their cigars and accessories.

Frequently asked questions