In the world of product packaging, especially for industries like tobacco, herbs, edibles, and small consumer goods, choosing the right packaging is just as important as the product itself. Packaging is no longer simply about protection—it’s about branding, customer experience, and compliance with storage needs.
Among the most common packaging choices are Mylar bags, jars & tubes. Each has its own strengths, weaknesses, and best-use cases. If you’re a brand owner, grower, or store looking to decide which packaging solution is best, this guide will give you a complete comparison.
What Are Mylar Bags?
Mylar bags are made from stretched polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, known for its durability, odor-proof qualities, and ability to protect products from moisture, oxygen, and light.
Key Benefits of Mylar Bags:
- Lightweight and portable - easy to store and ship in bulk.
- Excellent barrier protection – keeps products fresh and odor-proof.
- Customizable – can be printed in any design, color, or shape.
- Cost-effective – often cheaper than rigid packaging options.
- Flexible sizing – available in small (3.5g) to large bulk options.
Typical Uses:
- 3.5g herb and tobacco packaging
- Snack foods and edibles
- Coffee and tea storage
- Club/event promotional packaging
What Are Jars?
Jars are rigid containers, usually made of glass or high-quality plastic, used for packaging herbs, spices, concentrates, and other consumer products.
Key Benefits of Jars:
- Premium appearance – jars often look high-end and luxurious.
- Reusable – customers can keep and repurpose jars.
- Strong protection – rigid material protects contents from being crushed.
- Visibility – transparent jars allow customers to see the product directly.
Typical Uses:
- High-end herb or flower packaging
- Luxury product lines
- Concentrates and oils
- Specialty foods and cosmetics




What Are Tubes?
Tubes, often cylindrical in shape, are commonly used for pre-rolls, edibles, or compact items. They are typically made of plastic, glass, or eco-friendly alternatives.
Key Benefits of Tubes:
- Perfect for pre-rolls and singles – slim shape makes them convenient.
- Easy to carry – pocket-sized packaging for on-the-go customers.
- Protective – prevents crushing or breaking of delicate items.
- Seal-tight options – keep products fresh and compliant.
Typical Uses:
- Pre-rolls and small cigars
- Confectionery items
- Promotional giveaways
- Sample packaging




Mylar Bags vs. Jars vs. Tubes: A Direct Comparison
Feature |
Mylar Bags |
Jars |
Tubes |
Cost |
Low, very cost-effective |
Higher cost, especially glass |
Moderate, depends on material |
Branding Potential |
Unlimited printing, shapes, colors |
Limited printing, label-focused |
Limited surface, usually labels |
Portability |
Ultra-light, easy to ship & carry |
Heavy, breakable if glass |
Compact, easy to carry |
Protection |
Excellent moisture/odor/light barrier |
Excellent, crush-proof |
Good for small items, less for bulk |
Reusability |
One-time use (mostly) |
Highly reusable |
Sometimes reusable |
Customer Perception |
Versatile, trendy, creative |
Premium, high-end |
Convenient, practical |
Best For |
Bulk, everyday retail, custom branding |
Luxury lines, premium products |
Pre-rolls, small products, samples |
When to Choose Mylar Bags
- You want low-cost packaging with high design flexibility.
- You’re catering to bulk or retail customers who value convenience.
- You’re looking for packaging that’s odor-proof and airtight.
- You need variety in shapes and sizes.
👉 Ideal for: tobacco shops, growers, individual brand sellers, and clubs looking for custom printed designs.
When to Choose Jars
- You’re selling premium products and want a luxury presentation.
- You want customers to see the product directly.
- You want packaging that customers can reuse, reinforcing brand presence.
👉 Ideal for: boutique stores, high-end product lines, cosmetic or specialty food packaging.
When to Choose Tubes
- You’re packaging pre-rolls, single items, or samples.
- Your customers value on-the-go convenience.
- You want a slim, portable solution.
👉 Ideal for: pre-roll brands, promotional items, and small gift packaging.
Blending Packaging Options for Maximum Impact
It’s important to note that successful brands often don’t choose just one type of packaging. Instead, they use a combination:
- Mylar bags for bulk and cost-effective retail packaging.
- Jars for premium or high-end products.
- Tubes for pre-rolls and samples.
This mixed approach allows brands to cater to different customer segments while maintaining a consistent brand identity.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between Mylar bags, jars, and tubes depends on your product, brand image, and customer needs. Mylar bags shine when flexibility, customization, and cost-efficiency are key. Jars elevate a product with premium appeal and reusability, while tubes provide portability and convenience for smaller products.
Ultimately, the best solution is one that aligns with your brand’s goals, target audience, and budget—and in many cases, using a blend of packaging options is the smartest approach.
About Custom420Bag
At www.custom420bag.com, we specialize in creating custom Mylar bags and offering a wide range of packaging solutions including jars, tubes, and accessories. With over three years of experience in serving tobacco stores, growers, wholesalers, clubs, and individual brand sellers, we provide high-quality, customizable packaging that protects your products while making your brand unforgettable.
👉 Ready to choose the right packaging for your business? Visit www.custom420bag.com today to explore your options and start customizing.