How to smoke a cigar in a car

Today we talk about How to smoke a cigar in a car.

Smoking a cigar in a car can be an enjoyable experience fraught with nuances. Picture this: I’m cruising on a Saturday afternoon, venturesque blues playing from the radio, and a handcrafted cigar in hand. According to the Cigar Association of America, over 12 billion cigars were sold in the U.S. in 2022, emphasizing the growing popularity of this pastime. In this article, I’ll explore practical steps on how to smoke a cigar in a car, addressing everything from legality to post-smoke freshness.

Can you smoke in a car?

Before lighting up, I must always ask myself whether it’s permissible to smoke in the car. The legal implications can vary greatly based on location.

Understanding Legal Regulations

• State Laws: As of 2023, 12 states ban smoking in cars with minors present. Knowing the laws in your state can prevent costly fines.
• Rental Cars: Many rental car companies prohibit smoking in their vehicles, with fees reaching up to $250 for cleaning.
• Insurance Issues: Some insurance policies may have clauses regarding smoking in vehicles, especially concerning fire hazards.
• Private Property: Always seek permission before smoking in someone else’s vehicle to avoid disputes.

Smoking a cigar in a car

When embarking on a journey with a cigar, the right choice is critical for a satisfying experience. I’ve learned that the cigar I pick can influence the entire journey.

Choosing the Right Cigar

• Length & Gauge: For short drives (less than 30 minutes), I often choose cigars under 5 inches long with a ring gauge of 50. This allows me to enjoy the experience without a rushed pace.
• Flavor Profile: I gravitate towards milder flavors like Connecticut-wrapped cigars that won’t overpower the vehicle’s interior.
• Brand Options: Reputable brands like Arturo Fuente and Montecristo offer quality cigars specifically designed for quick enjoyment on the road.

Preparing for Your Cigar Experience

Preparation is key to ensure I enjoy every moment without interruptions during my cigar smoking experience in the car.

Essential Tools to Have

• Cigar Cutter: I always carry a premium cutter for a sharp and clean cut. A poor cut can ruin the draw.
• Portable Lighter: A butane lighter is essential. It’s wind-resistant and ignites easily, ideal for lighting a cigar while on the go.
• Travel Ashtray: I keep a small collapsible ashtray in the glove compartment; it’s a must to minimize mess inside the car.
• Wet Wipes: Always useful for cleaning my fingers, especially after handling my cigar.

Lighting up Behind the Wheel

When it’s finally time to light up, I’ve learned that safety must always come first. Lighting a cigar in a car requires care.

Best Practices for Lighting a Cigar

• Steady Position: I prefer to park or slow down significantly before lighting up—safety is paramount!
• Even Toasting: I toast the foot by holding the flame slightly above the cigar to ensure it lights evenly and smoothly.
• Gentle Puffs: I take slow puffs to ensure my cigar burns evenly and prolongs the experience.

Ashes, Ashes Will Blow All Around

Unfortunately, ash can be a significant concern. I’ve learned simple methods to manage this while enjoying my cigar in the car.

Minimizing Ash Mess in Your Car

• Designated Ashtray: Using a portable ashtray ensures all ashes go in one place, avoiding messes.
• Window Position: I crack a window open while smoking, letting natural airflow help disperse ash.
• Tap Lightly: I give my cigar a gentle tap against the ashtray to drop excess ash without sending it flying.

How Long Is Your Drive?

The duration of my drive influences my cigar choice, ensuring I maximize my enjoyment of the experience.

Planning Your Cigar Smoking Time

• Under 30 Minutes: I typically smoke short cigars around 4-5 inches long, like an Oliva Serie G, to fit the timeframe.
• 30-60 Minutes: Cigars like the Romeo y Julieta 1875 work well for drives longer than half an hour.
• Over an Hour: A larger cigar, 6-7 inches, such as a Padron 1964, allows for a relaxed, enjoyable smoke during longer journeys.

Don’t Throw Your Nub Out the Window

After enjoying a great cigar, I’ve come to realize that proper disposal is crucial to maintain respect for the environment.

Proper Disposal of Cigar Butts

• Non-Flammable Container: I always carry a dedicated disposal container to safely store the remnants of my cigar.
• Extinguish Fully: I make sure my cigar is completely out before securing it in the disposal container to prevent any fire risks.
• Avoid Littering: Throwing butts out of the window is not only illegal in many places but also harmful to the environment.

Removing Smoke from Your Car

After my cigar experience, it’s essential to tackle any lingering scents, ensuring my vehicle remains fresh.

Tips for Freshening Up After Smoking

• Ventilation: I open windows for a few minutes to dissipate smoke and improve air circulation.
• Cleaning Products: I use fabric sprays specifically designed to eliminate smoke odor, like Febreze, which neutralizes rather than just covers smells.
• Air Purifiers: Investing in a car air purifier can help maintain fresh air quality, particularly for regular smokers.

Don’t Store Your Cigars in the Car

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is never to leave cigars in my car.

Understanding the Impact of Temperature

• Temperature Fluctuations: The ideal temperature for cigar storage is between 65-70°F. Cars can easily hit 100°F or more in the summer, damaging my cigars.
• Humidity Control: I need 70% humidity to avoid drying out or molding, which fluctuates wildly in a vehicle.
• Quality Preservation: Keeping cigars in a humidor is the best way to ensure they maintain their flavor and quality over time.

Killing the Cigar Smell for Good

To truly enjoy future drives, eliminating unpleasant odors from past experiences is vital.

Products That Help Eliminate Odors

• Odor Neutralizers: I use sprays with activated charcoal that effectively absorb smells rather than masking them.
• Essential Oils: A few drops of oil like lemon or lavender can create a pleasant atmosphere without strong, artificial fragrances.
• Regular Cleaning: I ensure to vacuum seats and floors often to remove any residual particles and maintain freshness.

Quick Tips for Beginners

As a beginner, avoiding common mistakes can enhance my cigar smoking experience in a car substantially.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Smoking in a Car

• Overlooking Safety: Forgetting to ensure I’m parked or slowing down before lighting up can lead to dangerous situations.
• Choosing the Wrong Cigar: Selecting overly robust cigars for shorter trips makes the experience less enjoyable.
• Ineffective Disposal: Allowing cigar butts to accumulate instead of properly disposing can lead to clutter and odor.

Cruising the Pacific Coast Highway With A Cigar

There’s nothing like smoking a cigar on a beautiful scenic road such as the Pacific Coast Highway.

Choosing Scenic Routes for Your Smoking Journey

• California Coast: The views from Big Sur make for a fantastic backdrop while enjoying a fine cigar.
• Scenic Byways: Routes like Route 66 offer iconic scenery for a nostalgic smoke.
• National Parks: Always use designated smoking areas, respecting nature and fellow visitors.

Cars and Cigars: The Perfect Travel Companions

Cars offer the perfect venue for a cigar if managed correctly. I’ve enjoyed combining the two to enhance my travel experiences.

Creating an Enjoyable Smoking Environment

• Comfort Matters: I always choose a comfortable driving position and ensure good airflow for a pleasant smoke.
• A Well-Stocked Cigar Holder: Keeping a selection of my favorite cigars easily accessible makes my journey seamless.
• Enhancing the Atmosphere: I like to curate playlists that complement my cigar smoking experience, enriching both the soundscape and mood.

Conclusion

With careful preparation and respect for the environment and legalities, smoking a cigar in a car can be a truly rewarding experience. By following these guidelines, I not only enhance my enjoyment but also ensure that my vehicle remains clean and inviting for all future journeys. Light up, drive safely, and enjoy the ride!

FAQ

How long does cigar smell last in a car?

The lingering smell of a cigar can last anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on how well the vehicle is ventilated and cleaned. I typically open my windows and use air fresheners immediately after smoking to help minimize the scent efficiently.

Do you inhale cigar smoke when you smoke a cigar?

No, I don’t inhale cigar smoke as I do with cigarettes. Instead, I appreciate the complex flavors and aromas within my mouth before gently exhaling, enhancing the experience without inhaling.

Is it bad to smoke in your car?

Smoking in a car can have significant health implications for passengers and contribute to wear on the vehicle. I consider these factors seriously each time I decide to smoke while driving.

How do you smoke a cigar in public?

When I smoke a cigar in public, I always look for designated smoking areas or outdoor settings where smoking is allowed. Respecting fellow patrons and being mindful of my surroundings enhances everyone’s enjoyment of public spaces.