There are a variety of different factors to consider when buying Shisha.  I have found that, like most things, you get what you pay for.  But, then again, just because one brand of Shisha is extravagantly more expensive than other brands does not necessarily mean it will be the best.

Shisha is generally not very expensive, so you can get away with trying just about everything.  Also, many hookah shops offer larger and smaller packaging of the same shisha brands/flavors.  So, if you’re in the process of exploring the vast and widely varying world of shisha, you should try buying the smaller packages and then buy the larger ones after you’ve found a winner.

Be careful about “clearance” shisha, as this can many times be old and dried out from sitting on a shelf too long (thus the clearance).  If you’re not very picky, then a 50 cent package of dried out Shisha might get you through the evening (you might want to wait until at least the second date).  Dried out Shisha does not burn very well however, so it might end up being more worth your money (a few extra bucks) to buy something that isn’t expired.  This will avoid the excessive harshness that comes from burning old, dry shisha.

Related: Smoking Etiquette