Before I was a youtube cigar reviewer, I traveled a lot for business – 50 to 60 round trip flights every year for fifteen years. I learned a lot about traveling and a lot about traveling with cigars (much of it by trial and error).
These tips combine the latest TSA rules as well as some practical tips I’ve learned along the way.
Cutters: There is no formal ban on cutters, and it’s 100% okay to bring them in checked luggage. If you do carry on with a cutter, note that TSA officers have complete discretion to prohibit any item at screening that they feel presents a security threat.
Lighters: As of October 2023, the only types of lighter permitted in a carry-on or “on your person” as TSA says, are a sealed soft flame BIC-type disposable lighter or a Zippo-type lighter WITH NO WET FUEL. There is an exception though for both Zippo lighters containing fuel and butane torch lighters. You may bring ONE lighter in your carry-on/on your person – NOT in checked baggage – if it is contained in a DOT special permit container. Those are easy to get, check online to find sources.
The video also talks about ways to protect your cigars from damage, maintain proper humidity, and finding a place to smoke at your destination.
