How to Choose Cigars for the LA Climate

Quick take: Los Angeles’ dry air, heat spikes, and coastal microclimates can ruin a great cigar. Aim for 65–68% RH and 64–70°F, use two-way humidity packs, and protect cigars with a travel humidor between Malibu, Woodland Hills, and the San Fernando Valley.

Why LA’s Climate Matters for Premium Cigars

Premium cigars are hygroscopic—they absorb and release moisture. Santa Ana winds, summer heat, and low indoor humidity in Los Angeles can dry cigars quickly, causing hot burns, cracked wrappers, tight draws, and muted flavor. The solution is a stable storage plan tailored to LA, Woodland Hills, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley.

Ideal Targets for Southern California

• Relative Humidity (RH): 65–68% (a touch lower than humid regions to improve burn and flavor clarity)
• Temperature: 64–70°F (keep it under 70°F to reduce beetle risk)
• Stability: Avoid daily swings > 3–4% RH or > 3–4°F

Microclimates: Malibu vs. Woodland Hills vs. SFV

• Malibu / Coast: Cooler, salt air, mist. Keep cigars near 66–67% RH; avoid direct sea breeze exposure.
• Woodland Hills / San Fernando Valley: Hotter, drier. Consider 67–69% RH in summer and keep humidors away from windows/HVAC.
• High-heat days: Prioritize room temperature control first, then humidity.

Set Up the Home Humidor (LA Edition)

1. Place the humidor away from sun, vents, and exterior walls.
2. Calibrate a digital hygrometer (one-step kit or salt test).
3. Season safely with 84% seasoning packs for 7–14 days—never wipe cedar with water.
4. Maintain at 65–68% with two-way packs or an electronic unit; fill to ≤80% capacity for airflow.
5. Rotate cigars monthly and spot-check RH after heat waves or Santa Ana events.

Deep dive: How to Store Cigars: Humidor Essentials

Driving Across LA? Protect Cigars in Transit

• Use a sealed travel humidor with 65–69% packs.
• Keep cigars out of hot cars and direct sun; the dashboard is the enemy.
• Let cigars rest back in the home humidor for a few hours before lighting.

For the perfect lighting ritual: Lighting a Cigar Correctly

Choosing Cigars That Perform in SoCal

• Connecticut (coastal mornings): smooth, creamy; excellent for Malibu drives.
• Habano (balanced days): spice + sweetness; versatile for LA commutes.
• Maduro (cooler evenings): cocoa/espresso; slower burn for canyon sunsets.

Shop by profile: Connecticut · Habano · Maduro

FAQ

What humidity is best for cigars in Los Angeles?
Target 65–68% RH to balance dryness and burn quality in SoCal.

What temperature should I keep my humidor?
64–70°F, ideally under 70°F to reduce beetle risk.

How do I prevent cigars from drying during Santa Ana winds?
Keep cigars in a sealed humidor with fresh two-way packs and avoid opening the lid frequently.

Can I store cigars in my car while driving across LA?
Only in a travel humidor with humidity packs; avoid heat spikes and direct sun.