The Best Gas Station Cigars Ranked

Published
07/02/2025

Gas stations might not scream "premium cigars," but they’ve quietly become the go-to stop for millions of smokers looking for something convenient, flavorful, and affordable. Whether you're on a long road trip, making a quick pit stop, or just want to grab a mellow smoke without walking into a specialty store, gas station cigars offer a surprisingly solid lineup.

We’ve tried them all—filtered and unfiltered, sweet and bold—and here’s our definitive list of the best gas station cigars.

1. Al Capone Cigarillos — Best Overall

Flavor Options: Sweets, Jamaican Blaze, Gold, Blues
Type: Filtered & Unfiltered
Why it’s #1: Hand-rolled varieties, our own farms, and unmatched quality for the price.

Al Capone cigarillos have earned their crown. They aren’t just good for a gas station smoke—they’re good, period. Whether you're into bold flavors like Jamaican Blaze or prefer the mellow, sweet profile of Sweets, Al Capone delivers a consistently high-quality experience.

The unfiltered cigarillos are hand-rolled and crafted from tobacco grown on our own farms, while filtered options like Blues offer a smooth, refined draw that fits any occasion.

Where to Buy:

2. Swisher Sweets

Flavor Options: Original, Grape, Strawberry, Tropical Fusion
Type: Machine-rolled
Best For: Sweet tooth smokers and casual puffers

Swisher Sweets are iconic for a reason—they're everywhere, and they get the job done. Known for their sugary profiles and smooth drag, these cigarillos are beginner-friendly and inexpensive. Just don’t expect the same handcrafted feel you’d get from premium brands.

 

3. Backwoods

Flavor Options: Honey Berry, Sweet Aromatic, Dark Stout
Type: Rustic, natural-leaf
Best For: Smokers who want that “rugged” feel

Backwoods cigars are a fan favorite for their rugged look and naturally sweet flavor. They burn unevenly at times, but that’s part of the charm. These cigars aren’t trying to be fancy—they're about bold flavor, quick enjoyment, and a laid-back vibe.

 

4. Black & Mild

Flavor Options: Wine, Jazz, Cream, Original
Type: Pipe tobacco cigars
Best For: Pipe lovers who want something portable

Black & Milds offer a unique blend of pipe tobacco in a cigar form. If you like smooth, aromatic smokes with a touch of sophistication, these are a solid choice. The plastic tip makes them easy to handle and perfect for quick breaks.

 

5. Dutch Masters

Flavor Options: Palma, Berry Fusion, Honey
Type: Machine-made
Best For: Classic cigarillo lovers

Dutch Masters are old-school. Their mild flavor and consistent construction have earned them a loyal following over the years. They don’t stand out in any one category, but they’re reliable—and sometimes that’s all you need.

 

6. Game by Garcia y Vega

Flavor Options: White Grape, Mango, Green
Type: Machine-made
Best For: Smokers looking for flavor variety

Game cigarillos are often right next to the Swishers and Dutch Masters on the gas station shelf. They offer vibrant flavors and are super budget-friendly, but they tend to burn a little faster and can be inconsistent at times.

 

7. Phillies Blunt

Flavor Options: Original, Strawberry, Chocolate
Type: Machine-made
Best For: A quick, no-frills smoke

Phillies Blunt cigars are inexpensive, no-nonsense, and widely available. They’re a bit drier than others on this list, and flavor profiles tend to lean artificial, but they still offer a satisfying hit when you're in a pinch.

 

8. White Owl

Flavor Options: Silver, Pineapple, Watermelon
Type: Machine-rolled
Best For: Budget-conscious smokers

White Owl cigars are light, easy to smoke, and popular for a reason. Their flavored options are decent, and they’re often sold in two-packs. Great if you’re just looking to relax without overthinking your cigar choice.

 

Gas Station Cigar Buying Guide

What to Look For:

  • Freshness: Always check the seal. A dried-out cigar is a deal breaker.

  • Flavor vs. Strength: Decide if you want a mellow flavor (like Al Capone Sweets) or something bolder (like Backwoods).

  • Filtered or Unfiltered: Filtered options are cleaner and more beginner-friendly, while unfiltered cigars offer more richness.

Pro Tip:

Gas stations near highways or major cities tend to rotate inventory faster, which usually means fresher stock. If you're buying often, it's worth remembering where the good batches come from.

 

Final Thoughts

Gas station cigars aren’t just about convenience anymore. In 2025, brands like Al Capone have set a new standard by delivering premium flavor, high-quality tobacco, and sleek packaging—all without the humidor price tag.

Whether you're looking for a quick mellow break or something bold and flavorful.