It's been my experience that in addition to the low temps and lack of humidity, the lower air pressure in the luggage compartment has a very negative effect on cigars ... after I discovered that, I always take 'em as carry-on. And just last week, I learned those humi-paks are great ... Mrs bought a couple of cigars for me when she was back East that aren't available here ... she put a humi-pak in her carry-on and they arrived in great condition ...
XJ, when you going from SoCal to Tahoe? ... passing anywhere near the Bay Area when you do so?