Storing cigars properly is an absolute necessity to preserve their texture, flavor, aroma, and burn. Too dry and cigars suffer from a loss of moisture. Too wet and you risk damaging them with improper burning or mold.

The good news is Boveda Packs make it incredibly easy to maintain optimum humidity for cigars. These packs offer two-way humidity control and can be used in a wooden humidor, air tight containers, cigar cases, and other forms of cigar storage.

Whether you're still learning how to store cigars in your humidor or want to make simple adjustments to your current setup, knowing how to use Boveda Packs correctly helps you get better results.

What Are Boveda Packs?

Boveda packs are moisture control packets that work to keep a steady relative humidity (RH) in your humidor by using a unique two-way humidity control system. Contrary to many other humidification systems, these packs both add and take away moisture as needed to keep a steady RH.

When it comes to cigar storage, you can choose from a variety of Boveda RH levels to suit different cigars and personal preferences. Additionally, Boveda recommends using the proper amount of packs for your container size.

One thing to note is that Boveda strongly advises against mixing different RH levels in the same storage container. Boveda also recommends not using their packs alongside other forms of humidification as they can cancel each other out.

How to Use Boveda Packs in a Cigar Humidor

Using Boveda is straightforward, but a few simple steps can make a difference.

Step 1: Choose the Right RH Level

Start by selecting an RH level suitable for your cigars and storage setup. Your choice may depend on your preferred cigar profile, the type of container you use, and the surrounding environment.

If you are unsure which humidity level is appropriate, a digital hygrometer can help you monitor the conditions inside your humidor.

For new cigar enthusiasts, investing in reliable cigar Humidifiers & Hygrometers can make it easier to understand and maintain the environment where your cigars are stored.

RH Selection Guide for Cigars: 

Choosing the right relative humidity (RH) level is an important part of using Boveda Packs. While personal preference and cigar type can influence the choice, this simple guide can help beginners select an appropriate starting point:

RH Level Best For What to Expect
62% RH Firmer cigar storage and drier smoking preference Can help maintain a slightly drier environment
65% RH Everyday cigar storage and a drier smoking preference Often chosen by smokers who prefer an easier draw and burn
69% RH General-purpose cigar storage A popular middle-ground option for maintaining cigars
72% RH Drier environments or cigars that need more moisture Provides a higher humidity level for storage
75% RH Higher-humidity storage requirements Generally used when a higher RH environment is specifically desired

 

Which RH should you choose? If you are new to cigar storage, 65% or 69% RH can be a practical starting point. Your ideal level may vary based on your cigars, humidor, climate, and smoking preference. Use a reliable hygrometer to monitor the actual RH inside your humidor rather than relying only on the rating of the humidity pack.

Important: Use only one RH level at a time in the same storage container. Mixing different RH levels can interfere with the humidity balance.

Step 2: Remove the Outer Wrapper

If your Boveda packet comes individually wrapped, remove the clear outer plastic before placing it inside the storage container.

Do not cut, puncture, or open the actual humidity-control packet. The internal membrane is designed to regulate moisture without exposing its contents.

Step 3: Place the Pack Inside Your Humidor

Place the pack inside your Cigar Cabinet Humidor where air can circulate around it. Depending on your setup, it can be positioned under a tray, on top of the cigars, or inside a compatible holder.

Boveda states that its packs are safe to touch cigars directly. The important point is to allow moisture to circulate effectively throughout the storage space.

Step 4: Close the Humidor

Once the pack is in position, close your humidor and allow it to work.

Avoid repeatedly opening the lid simply to check the pack. Frequent opening introduces outside air and can make it harder for your humidor to maintain a stable environment.

Your hygrometer can help you monitor the RH level over time. If you do not already have one, adding dependable Cigar Humidifiers & Hygrometers to your cigar setup can give you a clearer picture of your storage conditions.

Step 5: Use the Correct Number of Packs

The number of packs required depends on the size and capacity of your container. For example, Boveda recommends one Size 60 pack for every 25 cigars a container can hold. Larger storage spaces may require larger packs or multiple packs.

Using too few packs may make it difficult to maintain consistent humidity, particularly in larger or less airtight containers.

Can You Use Boveda in a Travel Humidor?

Yes. Boveda packs can be used in a Travel Humidor, cigar case, humidor bag and other compact storage solutions. Their small size and simple operation make them convenient when you need to protect cigars while, from home.

 

When traveling make sure your case is properly closed and avoid leaving it exposed to heat or direct sunlight. A good travel setup combines a sealed case with an appropriately sized humidity-control pack.

For more practical travel advice, read our guide: How to Travel with Cigars: TSA Rules and Storage Tips.

When Should You Replace a Boveda Pack?

Boveda packs do not last forever. As Boveda packs release and absorb moisture they slowly become firmer. When a Boveda pack has become mostly hard or soft and flexible it is usually time to replace it.

Boveda recommends replacing Boveda packs every three months but the real life span can differ based on the surroundings, the container and how often the container is opened.

For a more detailed explanation, see When Should You Replace Boveda Packs? Signs, Lifespan, and Storage Tips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Boveda is simple, but cigar owners sometimes make a few avoidable mistakes:

  • Opening the actual packet: Remove only the outer wrapper. Never cut or open the humidity-control membrane.

  • Mixing RH levels: Use one RH level within the same storage container rather than combining different levels.

  • Combining humidification systems: Do not use Boveda alongside another humidification product in the same container.

  • Ignoring the hygrometer: Check your RH regularly so you know what is happening inside your storage environment.

  • Waiting too long to replace packs: Replace packs when they become hard or according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule.

  • Using the wrong pack size: Match the quantity and size of the packs to your storage capacity.

Build a Better Cigar Storage Setup

Building the perfect cigar storage setup starts with the right environment. Your quality humidor provides the foundation while proper humidity control keeps your cigars safe and secure. From a small humidor for home use to a large collection of cigars, choosing the right storage accessories makes a world of difference.

 

At 1st Class Cigar Humidors, we carry a large selection of premium cigar humidors and cigar storage accessories to help cigar lovers protect their collections. No matter if you're looking for a traditional wooden humidor, travel humidor, or cigar storage accessory we have the perfect storage solution to keep your cigars safe.

Explore Our Collection


Frequently Asked Question

 

1. How do you use Boveda Packs in a cigar humidor?
Place the appropriate Boveda Pack inside your cigar humidor after removing its outer plastic wrapper. Do not open or puncture the pack. Choose one RH level, use the recommended number of packs for your humidor capacity, and monitor humidity with a reliable hygrometer.
2. What RH level should I use for cigars?
The ideal RH level depends on your cigars, storage conditions, and smoking preference. Common options include 62%, 65%, 69%, 72%, and 75% RH. For beginners, 65% or 69% RH can be a practical starting point. Avoid mixing different RH levels in the same container.
3. How many Boveda Packs do I need for my humidor?
The number of Boveda Packs depends on the size and capacity of your storage container. As a general guideline, Boveda recommends one Size 60 pack for every 25 cigars the container can hold. Larger humidors may require additional packs.
4. Can you use Boveda Packs in a travel humidor?
Yes, Boveda Packs can be used in a travel humidor, cigar case, or other sealed travel storage. Select a pack suitable for the size of the container and keep the case closed as much as possible to maintain stable humidity.
5. How often should Boveda Packs be replaced?
Boveda Packs generally need to be replaced approximately every three months, although their lifespan can vary depending on the container, environment, and how frequently it is opened. A pack that has become mostly hard instead of soft and pliable is a sign that it should be replaced.