For cigar lovers, proper storage is key. As a fellow aficionado, you get that cigars absorb and release moisture from their environment. This humidity dance is crucial for keeping your cigar’s flavor, aroma, and smokability on point.
You’ve probably heard whispers about humidors – those swanky, cedarwood cribs that keep your favorite smokes living their best life. But let’s keep it real, they can be a wallet buster. If you’re new to the cigar game or watching your bills, you might be thinking “there’s gotta be another way.” That’s where tupperdors come in – the budget-friendly MVP that’s been making waves among savvy cigar collectors like you.
The Humidor: Timeless Quality and Nuanced Aging
Humidors are straight up alluring. These Spanish cedar or hardwood beauties ooze class and make any pad look fly. But it’s not just about the flex. Cedarwood is like a natural aging spa for your cigars, dropping essential oils that level up the flavor over time.
If you’re a serious cigar head with the cash to splash, a humidor is a solid investment. They come in all sizes, from desktop models for your personal stock to baller walk-in setups for the ultimate aficionado.
But before you start shopping for your dream humidor, let’s talk money. Quality humidors can cost you a pretty penny, from a couple hundred to grail-level pieces in the thousands. It’s a big commitment, especially if you’re just starting out or on a tight budget.
There’s also the upkeep. Humidors need some love and attention to keep the humidity on lock. We’re talking humidifiers, hygrometers, and distilled water. As a busy cigar lover, you might not have the time or energy for all that.
And let’s not even talk about the stakes. Humidity ups and downs can make your precious cigars crack, split, or get straight up soggy. It’s a cigar lover’s worst nightmare.
The Tupperdor: A Savvy and Functional Choice
Now let’s talk about the tupperdor – the budget-friendly, low-maintenance hero that’s been winning over practical cigar lovers like you.
A tupperdor is basically a repurposed airtight plastic container, usually a Tupperware (hence the slick name). It might not win a beauty contest, but it’s affordability and functionality are unmatched.
Setting up a tupperdor is stupid easy, even if you’re a total noob. Grab a container, a hygrometer to keep tabs on humidity, and some humidity control packs like Boveda. These little miracle workers have a salt solution that keeps the humidity steady without any extra gadgets or fuss.
If you’re just getting into cigars or have a modest collection, a tupperdor is a genius move. You can try out different sticks without going broke. Heading out on a cigar-fueled adventure? Tupperdors are light and tough, perfect for taking your smokes on the road.
Now let’s address the obvious. Tupperdors aren’t winning any style awards. They’re all about function over form. If you’re dreaming of a showpiece humidor, a tupperdor might leave you feeling meh. Tupperdors are also better for short to mid-term storage, not the slow flavor evolution you get with a cedarwood humidor.
So, Tupperdor or Humidor? You Do You
| Feature | Tupperdor | Humidor |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Cheap (often under $20 for setup) | Affordable to bougie |
| Maintenance | Minimal, especially with humidity packs | Needs seasoning, regular humidity checks |
| Aging | Good for short to mid-term storage | The gold standard for long-term aging, cedar boosts flavor |
| Aesthetics | Pure function | A classy addition to your space |
| Expandability | Easy to add more containers | Less flexible, especially desktop models |
| Portability | Light and rugged for travel | Less portable, especially bigger models |
Picking the right cigar crib is about protecting your investment and making sure every smoke is a banger. As a discerning cigar lover, you’ll want to weigh a few key things:
Budget – The Money Talk
Let’s not sugarcoat it. If you’re balling on a budget, a tupperdor is your best friend. You can make a humidor-like setup with stuff you have around the house and trusty humidity packs. Your wallet will thank you.
On the flip side, if you’ve got some dough to drop and want to invest in your passion, a humidor is the natural choice. Just be ready for the higher price tag, especially if you’ve got your eye on a top-shelf model.
Collection Size and Value – Quantity vs. Rarity
Take a hard look at your cigar stash. Are you a casual smoker with a modest lineup, or are you hoarding a treasure trove of premium, aged gems?
If you’ve got a smaller squad that you plan to burn through relatively soon, a tupperdor will do you right. It’s practical and gets the job done.
But if you’ve got a collection of rare and pricey sticks that demand the royal treatment, a humidor is the way to go. It’s a more secure and specialized home for your prized possessions.
Aging Goals – Short-Term Storage vs. Long-Term Maturation
Think about your storage timeline. Are you cool with keeping your cigars fresh for a few months to a couple years, or are you trying to age them for the long haul?
Tupperdors are the MVPs of short to mid-term storage. They’ll keep your cigars in fighting shape for a good while.
But if you’re dreaming of savoring a perfectly aged cigar that’s been chillin’ for years, a humidor is your wingman. Spanish cedar, with its gentle aroma and moisture mastery, will slowly draw out new layers of flavor and complexity as your cigars snooze.
Aesthetics and Experience – Practicality vs. Ritual
Think about how the cigar crib itself shapes your smoking experience. For some aficionados, a tricked-out humidor is a key part of the cigar lifestyle. It’s a symbol of swag and a nod to tradition. Every time you grab a cigar, you’re part of a sacred ritual.
Tupperdors, while undeniably practical, don’t have that same emotional punch. They’re the utilitarian sidekick, happy to put in work without the fanfare.
If the pomp and circumstance of a classic humidor gets you hyped, don’t settle. Do what makes you happy.
Maintenance – Effort vs. Ease
Let’s talk TLC. Humidors, as fly as they are, need some love and attention. You’ve got to season the cedarwood, keep an eye on your hygrometer, and top off your humidifier now and then. It’s not a crazy time suck, but it does take some regular check-ins.
If you’re the type who digs these little acts of cigar care, you might vibe with the hands-on nature of a humidor. It’s a labor of love.
But if you’re all about keeping it simple and easy, a tupperdor is hard to beat. With Boveda packs in your corner, you can pretty much set it and forget it. It’s the low-effort pick for the cigar lover on the go.
Making the Call
At the end of the day, picking between a tupperdor and humidor isn’t about right or wrong. It’s about knowing what works for you.
If you’re just getting into cigars, a tupperdor is a smart way to dip your toes in without dropping major cash. You can always level up to a humidor later if the mood strikes.
If you’re a seasoned cigar head with a growing collection and a taste for the finer things, a humidor will probably bring you more joy in the long run. It’s a worthwhile splurge for the true aficionado.
And hey, who says you have to choose? Plenty of cigar lovers rock a tupperdor for everyday smokes and a smaller humidor for special occasion sticks. It’s the best of both worlds.
The key is to keep it real with yourself about your budget, your stash, your goals, and what makes you happy. Weigh it out and you’ll find the cigar home that fits you like a Cuban-seed wrapper.
As you blaze your own cigar trail, remember that the most important thing is to savor the ride. Whether you’re pulling your cigar from a baller humidor or a ride-or-die tupperdor, what matters most is the bliss you get from it. So make your pick, kick back, and let it rip. You’ve earned it.
jay
Self proclaimed cigar expert. I've been smoking since 2010. I've practically lived at a cigar lounge from 10am to 10pm and trying every new cigar that came out for years.
