Can I Travel with CBD Internationally

Can I Travel with CBD Internationally?

By Joe Kryszak Published on 06/11/2024

So everything is ready for your flight, and you are all set for your long-awaited adventure. Your bags are packed, and you have your boarding pass in hand. Yet, when you double-check your carry bag, a nagging worry sets in: “Are my CBD products safe for flight?”

We understand this situation, and this post will help you navigate the skies and unravel the truth behind flying with CBD domestically and internationally. Let’s ensure your journey is high-flying and hassle-free!

Can I Fly with CBD oil in the US?

Flying with CBD oil within the United States has generated interest from many travelers who are seeking to bring their favorite CBD wellness companion along their journeys.

Before you embark on your flight, familiarize yourself with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)’s stance on hemp-derived products. You aim to obtain up-to-date information regarding existing CBD laws or regulations.

If you’re a CBD enthusiast planning a trip within the US, you’ll be pleased to know that federal law permits the transportation of CBD oil under certain conditions. If your CBD oil comes from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC, and under 3.4 fluid ounces (fl oz), you are typically allowed to bring it with you.

Taking CBD while flying is especially welcome news for travelers who rely on CBD for its potential health benefits. However, some state laws vary concerning the legal status of CBD.

Before you pack your bags, it will be better to research the laws of your destination and any state lines in which you may pass through or have layovers. By staying informed about these specific state rules, you can avoid potential legal complications.

According to Forbes Health, the US states below have full and conditional legal status for CBD products.

Fully Legal States

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Connecticut
  • District of Columbia
  • Illinois
  • Maine
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Montana
  • Nevada
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Oregon
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington

Conditionally Legal States

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maryland
  • Minnesota
  • Mississippi
  • Missouri
  • Nebraska
  • New Hampshire
  • New Mexico
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oklahoma
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

A conditionally legal state is a US state in which the legality of CBD products is contingent upon specific conditions. Such restrictions may vary depending on the regulations set forth by the state authorities.

Here are two examples:

In Nebraska – Hemp-based products are legal in Nebraska provided they contain less than 0.3% THC. However, no marijuana-derived CBD oil is allowed in the state, even though it is identified as medical cannabis.

In Ohio – CBD products sourced from the hemp plants are treated as legal, provided the THC content is below 0.3%. However, CBD products coming from cannabis can be purchased with an accompanying medical marijuana card.

 

Can I Fly with CBD oil in the US

Is CBD allowed in checked luggage?

International travel if it contains less than 0.3% THC and adheres to local and international laws. Research the destination’s regulations beforehand, as some countries ban or restrict CBD products. Ensure accurate labeling, carry receipts, and store CBD products where they are easily accessible if verification is required.

Does the TSA examine for CBD?

One burning question among CBD consumers is whether TSA specifically searches for hemp-derived CBD products.

Based on TSA’s website, their officers will not specifically look for marijuana or other illegal drugs. They focus more on identifying potential security threats, such as explosives and weapons.

Suppose a TSA officer discovers a suspected illegal or prohibited item from checked luggage, including CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC; they are required to request the presence of law enforcement for investigation purposes.

How Does TSA Assess Hemp-Derived CBD Oils

According to the TSA’s website, CBD oils from hemp or products that the FDA has approved are generally permitted on planes as long as they contain no more than 0.3% THC. While TSA agents are not equipped to conduct on-site testing to determine THC content, they are trained to identify potential security threats during screening.

To alleviate concerns about CBD products being confiscated, travelers can take proactive steps such as printing off official testing results from the company to prove THC content. Independent testing conducted by reputable companies provides documented evidence of THC levels, which can help demonstrate compliance with THC guidelines.

Ultimately, the decision to inspect and allow CBD products through security checkpoints rests with the discretion of TSA agents. While TSA states that they do not actively search for drugs, they are required to report any discovered illegal substances to law enforcement officials.

Can You Fly With CBD Gummies?

Flying with CBD gummies is allowed if they have less than 0.3% THC and conform to local laws. For CBD oil, the same rules apply, but carry-on liquids cannot exceed 3.4 oz (100 ml). Ensure all CBD products are in labeled, original packaging and accompanied by a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Researching your destination’s CBD policies is essential to avoid complications at customs.

Can I Fly CBD Products Outside of the US?

When traveling with CBD oils or other CBD products, it’s crucial to understand the laws of the country you’re visiting. Unlike traveling within the US, where TSA rules provide some clarity, international rules for CBD vary widely in many countries.

Can I Fly CBD Products Outside of the US

 Before you travel internationally, research the laws of your destination country thoroughly. Many countries have strict rules about CBD and THC products. Some countries may not differentiate between hemp-derived CBD and CBD from marijuana, which could cause legal issues.

Besides CBD laws, be aware of restrictions on specific types of CBD, like edibles or products with high THC levels. Even in countries where cannabis is legal, bringing CBD oil from elsewhere might be illegal.

Because international CBD laws are complex, travelers should be cautious. If you are unsure about the legality of CBD in your destination, it’s your best bet not to bring CBD products.

Can You Travel to Europe with CBD in Your Bag?

When journeying to Europe with CBD items, it’s vital to grasp the varying regulations across European nations. While some countries maintain more lenient CBD policies, others enforce stricter measures.

In certain regions, CBD goods containing a maximum of 0.2% THC are permissible; in others, any THC presence in CBD is prohibited. Additionally, many CBD products like gummies or candies might face restrictions in certain European jurisdictions.

Before departure, familiarize yourself with the CBD regulations applicable in every European country on your itinerary. This will help you follow the law and avoid customs or security problems.

Before you travel, check for any updates on CBD rules, as laws can change from one European country to another.

CBD Laws in Other Countries

CBD regulations differ significantly worldwide, posing a challenge for travelers wanting to carry CBD items during international trips. While some use CBD to achieve stress-free flight, knowing the legalities is vital to steer clear of potential legal trouble on your next trip.

Here’s what you need to know about bringing CBD on international flights:

Destination specific regulations

Mexico: Generally allows entry with clearly labeled hemp-derived CBD products.

Canada: Prohibits entry with any CBD and cannabis products.

Europe: Permissibility varies by country, so it’s essential to check the laws of both your destination country and any layover locations.

Asia: CBD products are often banned or heavily restricted, with severe penalties for possession in some countries.

Australia: CBD is widely legalized, but THC concentration allowances may differ from the USA.

South America: CBD regulations vary, with some countries legalizing CBD fully in recent years.

International Examples

In Thailand, although many CBD products are legalized, importation remains prohibited, leading to potential legal issues for travelers.

Some Tips for You for Flying with CBD Oil in the USA and Abroad

Here are more helpful tips for you as you travel with CBD products.

Carry with you broad-spectrum CBD products.

When you plan to bring CBD products on a plane, you might feel tiptoeing a legal minefield if the items you carry have THC in them. Because THC is a known psychoactive cannabinoid, it might become a hot compound in the eyes of the law.

Yes, the 2018 Farm Bill legalizes THC sourced from hemp, but some US states have specific conditions for accepting it in their jurisdiction.

Thus, if you are planning to traverse state lines, your best option is to carry THC-free hemp-based products. You can carry CBD isolates, but they cannot provide the synergistic benefits of the “entourage effect.” However, with broad-spectrum CBD products, you can have the best of both worlds:

  • Avoiding THC detection, which could give you some problems.
  • Enjoying the sought-after entourage effect since broad-spectrum products contain other cannabinoids, except THC.

Bring travel-friendly products.

When preparing for air travel with CBD in tow, bringing travel-friendly goods can help streamline your journey. CBD oil bottles or vape pens may be cumbersome when placed inside your carry-on or other travel bags. You may consider compact alternatives such as CBD capsules and gummies. They typically come in travel-sized containers, which makes them more portable.

Skin care products such as CBD topicals are also a good choice. First, they provide soothing relief for dehydrated skin, which is common during flights. At the same time, they offer the benefits of CBD topically, promoting relaxation and alleviating stress.

CBD capsules or gummies are ideal companions for those prone to pre-flight jitters or nervousness during air travel. Their discreet nature and ease of consumption make them convenient options for calming nerves without drawing unwanted attention.

Don’t forget the “Certificate of Analysis” (COA).

Traveling with CBD becomes more reassuring and may even speed up security checks when you bring along a Certificate of Analysis (COA). While packaging might offer some clues about CBD content, it often falls short of providing a complete picture. Therefore, having a CoA when you fly with CBD ensures transparency and precision regarding what exactly is in your CBD product.

With a CoA in hand, CBD users can verify to a TSA agent that their cannabidiol adheres to legal standards, especially for domestic flights within the US. This document acts as concrete proof that the CBD contains less than the legal 0.3% THC limit and originates from hemp, streamlining the security screening process.

Choosing the right CBD for traveling

Selecting the right CBD for travel requires considering legal restrictions and practicality. Choose hemp-derived CBD with less than 0.3% THC and ensure it’s lab-tested and properly labeled. Portable options like gummies, capsules, or travel-sized oils are ideal. Research local laws at your destination and carry supporting documents, like a COA, to ensure smooth and hassle-free transport.

Stirling CBD Products You Can Travel with You

CBD Oils

These natural extracts are free from THC, which may give you a risk when you are onboard a plane. They can provide the famous “entourage effect” for a more potent CBD experience.

CBD Gummies

Every active ingredient of our gummies is vegan and organic. Consuming them also brings the potential health benefits of hemp without worrying about getting high since they lack the psychoactive THC.

CBD Lotions

These lotions align with Stirling’s mission to produce the highest-quality CBD products. And we don’t cut corners. Made for targeted relief, our hemp-based creams are potent and pure to help calm your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CBD legal?

In the USA, CBD is legal under federal law as long as it is derived from the hemp plant and contains less than 0.3% THC. However, CBD’s legality varies by country and jurisdiction when flying abroad. Thus, always research the CBD laws of your arriving country before bringing in your CBD products.

Can you fly with CBD in the US?

Traveling with CBD by plane is federally legal in the US. You may bring your favorite CBD goods, such as CBD gummies, as long as they meet legal requirements.

Is CBD allowed in a carry-on bag?

Yes, CBD is permitted inside your carry-on bag. However, remember that if it is in liquid form, it must be under 3 ounces.

Which countries do not allow you to bring CBD?

Regulations regarding CBD are still evolving. It is essential for you to determine whether your destination country allows CBD. To date, CBD is illegal in the following countries: Albania, Armenia, Belarus, Bosnia, Denmark, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Cambodia, China, and pretty much all countries in Africa and the Middle East.

What are the TSA guidelines for carrying CBD on a plane?

CBD products must contain less than 0.3% THC and comply with TSA’s liquid rules.

Can I bring CBD gummies on an international flight?

Check the specific regulations of the destination country regarding CBD edibles.

Do I need documentation to travel with CBD?

It’s advisable to carry a Certificate of Analysis (COA) and any prescriptions.

What happens if I travel to a country where CBD is illegal?

You may face legal issues; it’s best to research and comply with local laws.

Can I ship CBD products to my travel destination?

Shipping CBD might be an option, but ensure compliance with the destination’s laws.

How can I ensure my CBD product is compliant for travel?

Purchase from a reputable source like Stirling CBD with clear labeling and third-party testing.

About the Author

A leader in the Hemp Industry since 2014, Joe has been at the forefront of the Hemp Industry's innovation and growth. He is passionate about creating an atmosphere of collaboration and education in the Hemp Industry through the growth of Stirling Oils. Prior to this, Joe led strategic growth teams and initiatives at HP, Lenovo, and Amazon. With a degree from SDSU and an MBA from Pepperdine, Joe guided numerous businesses beyond the $1B threshold.