Whether you’re new to cigars or a seasoned aficionado, you already know this fact: a premium cigar is only as good as its storage. Without the right humidity, even the finest cigar can lose its magic and become a poor smoking experience. With just a standard cigar box and an Integra Boost humidity pack you can create a temporary humidor that protects your cigars and protects their freshness until you’re ready to enjoy them.
What Is An Integra Boost Pack
Unlike traditional one way humidifiers, Integra Boost packs are two way humidity regulators. This means they don’t just release moisture, they also absorb excess humidity when needed. The result is a clean, consistent environment for your cigars with no mess, no leaks, and no guessing.
Each Integra Pack is:
- Food safe and salt free
- Chemical free and odorless
- Designed with a smart indicator card to let you know when it is time for a replacement
They’re compact and incredibly effective, perfect for turning your regular cigar box into a humidity controlled space.
Step By Step
1) Choose Your Box
Not all cigar boxes are created equal. If you have a traditional Spanish cedar box, the kind Escobar Cigars are packed in, you’re already ahead of the game. Cedar helps to naturally regulate humidity and repel beetles. Even still, paper or cardboard boxes can work for short term storage, as long as they close tightly. The goal is to create a semi sealed environment where humidity can stabilize.
2) Load It Up
Load your box by carefully placing your cigars inside. Be careful not to overcrowd them to prevent damage and maintain even humidity. If you’re storing a variety of different blends or sizes, try to separate them using dividers or tissue paper.
3) Add the Integra Boost Pack
Select the right size pack for your needs. Lay the pack flat inside the box ideally not in direct contact with the cigars.
- For up to 12 cigars, use an 8g Integra Boost pack
- For 12-50 cigars, use a 67g pack
4) Seal It Up
Close the box and secure the lid tightly. If it doesn’t close snugly, reinforce it with rubber bands or place the entire box inside a large Ziploc bag or airtight container. This helps trap the moisture inside and ensure longer lasting humidity control.
5) Monitor and Replace
Each Integra pack comes with a replacement indicator card that changes when the pack is spent. On average, these packs last 6-8 weeks depending on how often you open the box and your local climate.
How Long Can This Setup Last?
The DIY humidor solution is best for temporary use, typically from a few days to a couple of months. These are perfect for:
- Weekend trips
- Backup storage
- Special occasion cigars you’re gifting or saving
- New smokers waiting on their first proper humidor
For longer term storage, investing in a dedicated humidor is still the way to go, but this hack will save you when you’re in a pinch.
No Excuses for Dry Cigars
There is no need to compromise on quality just because you’re between humidors. With a simple Escobar Cigar box and an Integra Boost pack, you can maintain the flavor, aroma, and integrity of your cigars with ease.
When it comes to premium cigars, freshness is mandatory.