Types of Native Cigarettes in Canada: Regular, King-Size, Menthol

What Types of Native Cigarettes Are Available in Canada?

Native cigarettes come in several types, including regular and king-size formats, full flavour or light strength, menthol and natural varieties, and brand-specific options like Canadian Goose and Playfare. Most are sold in 20-cigarette pack or 200-cigarette cartons.

• What brands of Native cigarettes are there?

What Are the Different Types of Native Cigarettes Available?

If you’re exploring Native cigarettes for the first time, you might be surprised at the variety available. Just like mainstream brands, Indigenous-made cigarettes are offered in different sizes, strengths, and flavours. Some are designed for a slower, longer burn, while others are shorter and more compact. Many brands also offer both full-flavour and lighter options, catering to different preferences. Understanding these types can help you choose the Native cigarettes that best match your smoking style.

Check out some of the most popular native cigarettes online in Canada below 

• BB Full
• BB Light
• Canadian Full
• Canadian Light
• Canadian Menthol [Mint]
• Discount Full
• Discount Light
• Nexus Full
• Nexus Lights
• Playfare Cigarettes

Native Cigarettes By Size and Format

The most common way Native cigarettes are categorized is by size and format.

• Regular: Typically shorter in length, with a standard filter. These are compact and usually burn faster.

• King Size: Longer than regular cigarettes, with an extended filter. They provide a slower draw and longer burn time.

• 100s / Super Kings: Less common but available from some Indigenous brands, designed for smokers who prefer an extended session.

👉 Key takeaway: Size affects both the smoking experience and the cost per stick. King size cigarettes, for example, may cost slightly more per pack but last longer per smoke.

Native Cigarettes By Strength and Nicotine Level

Native cigarettes, like traditional brands, are available in different strengths.

• Full Flavour: Delivers a bold, strong taste with higher tar and nicotine yields.

• Light / Smooth: Designed to feel less harsh on the throat and lungs. Some use lighter filters or different blends of tobacco.

• Extra Strong: Certain brands market stronger blends for smokers who prefer a heavier hit.

👉 Important note: Health Canada stresses that “light” or “smooth” does not mean safer. All cigarettes contain nicotine and harmful chemicals regardless of strength labeling. The difference is primarily about taste and throat feel, not reduced health risk.

Native Cigarettes By Flavour Options

While most Native cigarettes stick to traditional, natural tobacco flavour, there are some variations:

• Menthol: Popular among smokers who prefer a cooling effect. Some Indigenous brands produce menthol options.

• Flavoured blends: Unlike big tobacco companies that offer a wide variety of flavour-infused products, Native cigarettes tend to be simpler. When flavouring is offered, it is typically limited to menthol or very mild variations.

• Natural / Additive-Free: Many Native brands emphasise minimal processing, appealing to smokers who want a “purer” tobacco taste.

👉 Compared to mainstream brands, Native cigarettes generally focus on fewer flavour types, keeping products closer to natural tobacco tradition.

Native Cigarettes By Brand Differences

Different Indigenous communities across Canada produce their own cigarette brands, each with unique characteristics.

• Canadian Goose – Known for its classic king-size format, widely available online and on reserves.

• Playfare – Offers both regular and light options, appealing to smokers who want variety.

• Other Indigenous brands – Smaller producers often highlight traditional curing methods or distinctive packaging, giving smokers more choices across price points and styles.

👉 Key takeaway: While selection is smaller than with global tobacco giants, Native brands provide distinct options that balance tradition, affordability, and quality.

By Packaging: Packs vs. Cartons

Native cigarettes are sold in familiar formats that match commercial standards.

• Packs – The most common retail format, containing 20 cigarettes. Ideal for casual or occasional smokers.

• Cartons – Standard cartons contain 10 packs (200 cigarettes). Buying cartons typically offers better value per stick.

• Variations – Some brands use soft packs, others use hard packs; carton presentation can also vary slightly between Indigenous manufacturers.

👉 For most smokers, cartons are the more economical choice, while single packs offer flexibility and smaller upfront cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Native cigarettes come in menthol?
Yes. Some Indigenous brands produce menthol varieties, though selection is more limited than commercial brands.

Are there light or mild Native cigarettes?
Yes. Certain brands, like Playfare, offer light or smooth versions. However, “light” does not mean safer — it only affects taste and draw.

How many cigarettes are in a carton of Native cigarettes?
Most cartons contain 200 cigarettes, packaged as 10 packs of 20.

Which Native brand is the cheapest?
Prices vary by seller and province, but Canadian Goose and Playfare are often considered affordable options.

Do all types of Native cigarettes require ID for delivery?
Yes. Canada Post requires government-issued Proof-of-Age ID for delivery of all tobacco products, including Native cigarettes.