Sometimes you just want to grab something ready to go. Pre-rolls have become one of the most popular products at dispensaries for good reason—they’re convenient, portable, and require zero prep work. Whether you’re new to cannabis or a longtime enthusiast, this pre-rolls guide covers everything you need to know about these ready-made joints.
What Are Pre-Rolls?
Pre-rolls are exactly what they sound like: joints that have been rolled for you ahead of time. They typically contain ground cannabis flower wrapped in paper, sometimes with a filter or crutch at the end for easier smoking. You light one end, inhale from the other, and you’re good to go.
This pre-rolls guide cannabis overview wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the variety available. Pre-rolls come in different sizes, from slim half-gram options perfect for solo sessions to full-gram joints meant for sharing. Some dispensaries also carry multi-packs, so you can stock up on your favorites.
Types of Pre-Rolls
Not all pre-rolls are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the main categories you’ll encounter:
Classic pre-rolls contain ground flower and nothing else. These are straightforward joints that let you experience a strain in its purest form. Quality varies based on the flower used, so it’s worth asking what’s inside.
Infused pre-rolls take things up a notch. These are coated or filled with concentrates like kief, hash, or live resin, boosting potency significantly. Infused options are popular among experienced users looking for stronger effects. If you’re curious about concentrates, our cannabis concentrates guide explains the different types.
CBD pre-rolls contain hemp or high-CBD cannabis flower with minimal THC. These are great for people who want the ritual of smoking without intense psychoactive effects.
Blunts use tobacco leaf or hemp wraps instead of traditional rolling paper. They burn slower and have a slightly different flavor profile. Some people prefer the experience, while others stick to classic papers.
What to Look For When Shopping
Quality matters when choosing pre-rolls. Here are some things to consider:
The flower inside — The best pre-rolls use the same quality flower you’d buy by the eighth. Some lower-quality options contain shake, trim, or a mix of leftover material. At Buds & Roses, we carry pre-rolls made with whole-flower grinds from trusted cultivators.
Strain selection — Just like loose flower, pre-rolls come in indica, sativa, and hybrid varieties. Think about what kind of experience you want. Our guide to indica, sativa, and hybrid differences can help you decide.
Freshness — Pre-rolls can dry out over time, which affects how they smoke. Check packaging dates when possible, and shop from dispensaries with good turnover. A fresh pre-roll burns evenly and delivers full flavor.
Lab testing — Like all cannabis products in California, pre-rolls must be tested for potency and contaminants. Look for products with accessible lab results so you know exactly what you’re getting.
The Convenience Factor
The biggest appeal of pre-rolls is convenience. There’s no grinding, no rolling, no hunting for papers. You just open the tube and light up. This makes pre-rolls perfect for several situations:
- On-the-go use — Slip one in your pocket for a hike, concert, or beach day
- Social settings — Easy to share with friends without any preparation
- Trying new strains — Sample something different without committing to a larger quantity
- Beginners — No learning curve for rolling your own
For people who enjoy the process of rolling, pre-rolls might feel less personal. But when time or circumstances don’t allow for prep work, they’re hard to beat.
How to Smoke a Pre-Roll
If you’re new to joints, here’s a quick primer:
Light it evenly. Hold the flame to the tip while rotating the joint slowly. You want an even cherry, not a lopsided burn that causes canoeing (when one side burns faster than the other).
Take gentle puffs. You don’t need to inhale hard. Slow, steady draws give you smoother hits and help the joint burn evenly.
Ash as needed. Tap off the ash occasionally to keep the cherry clean and prevent it from falling on you unexpectedly.
Pace yourself. You don’t have to finish the whole thing in one sitting. You can put it out and save the rest for later—just know that relighting affects the flavor somewhat.
Storing Pre-Rolls
Pre-rolls come in tubes or packaging designed to protect them, but proper storage still matters. Keep them in a cool, dark place away from heat and humidity. If you’re not planning to smoke a pre-roll right away, leave it sealed in its original container to preserve freshness.
Avoid tossing loose pre-rolls in a bag or pocket where they can get crushed or damaged. A dedicated case or the original tube keeps them in good shape until you’re ready.
Why Pre-Rolls Belong in Your Rotation
Even if you prefer other consumption methods, pre-rolls deserve a spot in your cannabis routine. They’re perfect for spontaneous moments, easy to share, and let you sample strains without buying larger amounts. Plus, the quality of pre-rolls has improved dramatically—today’s options from reputable brands rival anything you’d roll yourself.
At Buds & Roses, we stock a curated selection of pre-rolls from cultivators we trust. Whether you want a mellow CBD option, a classic single-strain joint, or a potent infused experience, our budtenders can point you in the right direction.
Ready to grab some? Visit our Order Online page to browse pre-rolls and find your next favorite, or stop by the dispensary and see what’s fresh.
