How to Store Cigars Without a Humidor

Not everyone starts their cigar journey with a fancy desktop humidor. And honestly? You don’t need one right away. Whether you’re new to cigars, waiting for your humidor to arrive, or just want a reliable backup system, there’s a simple DIY method that keeps your cigars fresh for weeks — even months — without spending a fortune.

It’s called the Tupperdor, and it’s one of the best hacks every cigar smoker should know.

Why a Humidor Isn’t Always Necessary

A traditional humidor looks amazing, but its job is simple:
Keep cigars at a consistent humidity around 65–72% RH.

Airtight containers — like Tupperware, food-safe storage bins, or gasket-sealed containers — can do the exact same thing when set up properly. They trap humidity, prevent fluctuations, and protect cigars from outside air.

The secret is adding the right cedar and humidification.

The Perfect DIY Cigar Storage Setup

Here’s how to build a cigar-safe environment at home using items you probably already have.

1. Use an Airtight Container

Any sturdy, gasket-sealed container works:

• Lock-top food storage

• Large Tupperware

• Kitchen airtight bins

• Small travel-sized containers

Make sure it’s clean, odourless, and airtight.

2. Add Spanish Cedar (This Is the Game Changer)

Cigars love Spanish cedar. It naturally regulates humidity, enhances flavour, and prevents mold.

That’s why adding cedar pieces to your Tupperdor makes a massive difference. Use:

• Cigar Star Spanish cedar airflow racks

• Cedar trays

• Cedar dividers

• Cedar Boveda holders

They keep cigars from touching plastic and allow airflow — which is key to aging.

3. Add Your Humidity Source

The simplest option? A Boveda pack.
But for the most stable long-term setup, use:

• Polymer crystal humidifier (main source)

• Boveda pack (stability control)

This combo lasts longer and keeps humidity extremely stable, just like a high-end humidor.

4. Arrange Cigars With Space to Breathe

Don’t pack them tight. Let humidity circulate. This is where cedar airflow racks shine — they keep cigars elevated, separated, and aging evenly.

5. Close the Lid and Forget It

Check humidity once a week. If you’re using polymer crystals with Boveda, you’ll hardly ever need to adjust anything.

Why You Should Try This Hack

A DIY Tupperdor:

• Costs under $20

• Works better than most cheap humidors

• Is completely airtight

• Keeps cigars fresh for long periods

• Travels well

• Is perfect for beginners or overflow storage

Many seasoned smokers still use a Tupperdor because of how reliable it is.

And with Cigar Star’s cedar accessories and humidification products, you can turn any airtight container into a legit cigar-aging environment.