Rolling Papers: Which Type Is Actually the Best?

What paper can you use to roll a joint?

To roll a joint, you can use several types of paper designed specifically for smoking tobacco or cannabis: classic rolling papers, blunt wraps, rice paper or cellulose paper. Each one burns and handles a little differently, so the right pick depends on what you're rolling. These are the most common options:

1. Rolling papers: The go-to choice for rolling joints. They come in different sizes and brands, and they're designed to be easy to roll and to burn evenly.
2. Blunt wraps: A thicker paper than standard rolling papers, often made from hemp. Ideal for bigger joints, since they can hold more cannabis.
3. Rice paper: Thinner and more transparent than regular rolling paper. Some people prefer rice paper because it's more discreet and lets you see what's inside the joint while you smoke.
4. Cellulose paper: A thin, transparent paper that's also used for rolling joints. Like rice paper, it's prized for its discretion.

It's important to stick to paper designed specifically for smoking — other types of paper can contain toxic substances that aren't safe to inhale.

What are the different types of rolling paper?

There are several types of smoking papers, each with its own characteristics to match different preferences and needs. Here are some of the most common:

1. Rolling papers: The most widely used type, available in different sizes and brands. It's thin and usually made from wood pulp, hemp or a blend of both. Easy to roll and burns evenly.
2. Blunt wraps: A thicker, sturdier paper, often hemp-based. Usually larger than standard rolling paper and used for bigger joints, since it can hold more tobacco or cannabis.
3. Rice paper: A very thin, transparent paper made from rice pulp. Some smokers prefer it because it's more discreet and lets you see the contents of the joint as you smoke.
4. Cellulose paper: Similar to rice paper — very thin and transparent. Also valued for its discretion, and it burns slowly.
5. Flavored paper: There are papers with added flavors like fruit, mint or candy. They can give your joint a different twist.
6. Paper with filter tips: Some papers come with a filter built into one end, which makes the joint easier to handle and keeps you from inhaling plant material.
7. Pre-rolled cones: Paper cones or tubes that come already rolled and just need filling with tobacco or cannabis. Practical and easy to use.

Whichever type you go for, the golden rule stands: always use paper made specifically for smoking, and steer clear of printer paper or any other material that can turn toxic when burned.

What's the best paper for smoking?

Choosing the best smoking paper comes down largely to personal preference and what you need from it. Every type has its own perks and quirks. Some people love how thin and transparent rice or cellulose paper is, while others prefer the strength and versatility of classic rolling paper.

That said, one of the most popular picks — and the one many smokers consider the best — is the traditional rolling paper. These papers are thin, easy to roll and burn evenly. They're widely available in different sizes and brands, so there's a fit for everyone.

Rolling paper also delivers a more authentic smoking experience, since it lets you prep and roll your own joints exactly the way you like them. On top of that, it adds no extra flavor, so you can fully appreciate the natural taste of your cannabis.

One thing worth repeating: when picking a smoking paper, make sure it's designed specifically for use with tobacco or cannabis. Avoid printer paper or other materials that can be toxic when burned.

Brands:

These are some of the best rolling paper brands you can find on the market right now:

1. Raw: Known for its unbleached, chlorine-free, extra-thin paper made with natural ingredients. A favorite among smokers thanks to the variety and quality of its lineup.
2. OCB: Makes smoking paper from natural elements like hemp, flax and gum arabic. Also offers unbleached options made with high-quality virgin paper.
3. Smoking: Offers rice-based rolling paper with ultra-thin, slow-burning options. They also make the Bloc Brown line, which contains no bleaching agents.
4. Búho Papers: A newer rolling paper brand that's been gaining traction. Its paper is made from 100% natural wood fibers, free of chlorine and harmful additives, and it's sustainable. The ultra-thin natural fiber makes rolling easier.
5. PAY-PAY: One of the oldest rolling paper brands in the world, with ranges adapted to every type of tobacco. They also offer PAY-PAY Go Green, the world's first green paper, made naturally from the alfalfa plant.

Each of these brands brings different features and options to the table to suit every smoker's needs and preferences.