Key takeaways
- Yes, you are permitted to travel with CBD when flying within or between regions where it is legal.
- The key consideration is that the CBD product must contain less than 0.3 percent THC, adhering to legal limits.
- Traveling with CBD requires careful consideration of both federal and local regulations.
- CBD forms like edibles, tinctures, oils, capsules, topicals and crystals are acceptable on planes.
As awareness grows regarding the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD, there's a rising concern about its permissibility during transit, given the variations in CBD laws across different locations. This article aims to explore whether traveling with CBD is feasible and the potential regulatory considerations involved.
Can I travel with CBD?
Yes, you are permitted to travel with CBD when flying within or between regions where it is legal. The key consideration is that the CBD product must contain less than 0.3 percent THC, adhering to legal limits. If you choose to carry it in liquid form in your carry-on luggage, it must comply with the standard aviation security regulations, typically limited to three ounces or less to ensure compliance with carry-on restrictions. Always check the specific regulations of the airline and the destination to guarantee a smooth travel experience with CBD.
How can I travel with CBD?
Traveling with CBD requires careful consideration of both federal and local regulations, as well as the policies of the transportation carrier. Here are some general guidelines to help you travel with CBD:
- Check Legal Status: Before traveling, research and understand the legal status of CBD in both your departure and destination locations. This includes federal laws, state laws, and local regulations.
- Choose Hemp-Derived CBD: Opt for CBD products derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC. Hemp-derived CBD is legal at the federal level in the United States, according to the Farm Bill.
- Review Airline Policies: Check the specific policies of the airline you are flying with. Some airlines have restrictions or guidelines regarding the transportation of CBD or other cannabis-related products.
- Carry Original Packaging: Keep CBD products in their original packaging with clearly labeled ingredients and CBD/THC content. This can help provide transparency if any questions arise.
- Follow TSA Guidelines: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to bring certain CBD products in carry-on bags. Ensure that the total amount of liquids, including CBD oils, adheres to the TSA's liquid restrictions.
- Bring Documentation: Carry any relevant documentation, such as certificates of analysis (COA) from the manufacturer, to verify the THC content and the legality of your CBD product.
- Keep within Quantity Limits: Adhere to any quantity limits set by the airline or transportation authorities. Some may have specific rules regarding the amount of CBD you can bring.
- Declare if Necessary: If asked by authorities, declare your CBD products. Being transparent and cooperative can help avoid misunderstandings.
What forms of CBD are allowed on a plane?
When traveling with CBD on a plane, it's important to consider both federal regulations and the policies of the transportation carrier. Here are common forms of CBD that are generally allowed:
- CBD Oil/Tinctures: Bottles of CBD oil or tinctures are commonly allowed in carry-on luggage. Ensure that the total amount complies with TSA's liquid restrictions.
- Capsules or Softgels: CBD capsules or softgels are a convenient and discreet form of CBD that is generally permissible for air travel.
- Edibles: CBD-infused edibles, such as gummies or chocolates, are often allowed. Ensure they are well-packaged and comply with any restrictions on liquids or food items.
- Topicals: CBD creams, balms, or lotions for external use are generally allowed. Make sure they comply with any restrictions on liquids or gels.
- Isolate or Crystals: CBD isolate or crystals, in powder form, is usually allowed. Ensure that it is securely packaged and labeled.
- Patches: CBD patches, which adhere to the skin, are a discreet form of CBD and are generally permissible for air travel.
- Vape Pens (with Caution): While some airlines permit vape pens, it's crucial to check the specific policies of the airline and the airport. Some locations have restrictions on vaping devices due to concerns about lithium-ion batteries.
Which countries don’t allow you to bring CBD or hemp-based products?
CBD laws are subject to frequent changes, underscoring the importance of checking regulations before your journey to confirm its permissibility at your destination. CBD is prohibited in several countries, including Albania, Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia, Denmark, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Cambodia, China, Myanmar, Laos, Singapore, Vietnam, and nearly all African (excluding South Africa, Ghana, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe) and Middle Eastern (excluding Israel) nations.
Frequently asked questions
Can you bring CBD on a domestic flight in the USA?
It's possible but requires careful consideration. TSA guidelines state that you can transport CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC, provided they are hemp-derived. These items can be placed in either your carry-on or checked luggage.
Is it permissible to bring CBD on a cruise?
According to major cruise lines in Miami and Disney Cruise Lines, the general consensus is no. Bringing CBD oil, products, or any form of marijuana, including medical marijuana, is strictly prohibited during your cruise.
Is it possible for drug dogs to detect CBD edibles?
Police dogs, trained to identify drugs, including cannabis, face challenges in detecting cannabis edibles. Unlike smoked or raw cannabis, edibles lack the same potent odor, posing limitations to the dogs' detection abilities.
Want to Learn More?
- How to Choose CBD?
- CBD for Schizophrenia
- Nature's Wellness Warriors — CBD vs Hemp Oil
- 5 Ways to make your Bed a Sanctuary
- Enhancing Your Endocannabinoid System: 4 Ways To Do This Now
Sources
Mead, A. (2017). The legal status of cannabis (marijuana) and cannabidiol (CBD) under U.S. Law. Epilepsy & Behavior, 70, 288-291. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.11.021
Iffland, K., & Grotenhermen, F. (2017). An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 2(1), 139-154. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0034
