Whether you’re planning to fly a few states over or to another country, one thing you don’t want to forget to pack is CBD. For travelers, CBD offers all sorts of advantages, including minimized anxiety, a calmer mood, and better sleep. CBD may also benefit those traveling across multiple time zones by helping to minimize symptoms of jet lag.
If you’re hopping on a plane in the near future and want to bring CBD along with you, there are some things to know beforehand. Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of flying with CBD products.
Can I Legally Travel with CBD?
In the past few years, a lot has changed in regards to CBD products. Back in 2018, the Farm Bill was passed. This bill legalized all hemp-derived products, including CBD products, at the federal level. Other recent changes include changes from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). today, travelers can now bring hemp-derived CBD products on the plane.
But, despite CBD being legal at the federal level, there are still some caveats to be aware of. For example, a CBD product is only considered legal under the 2018 Farm Bill if:
- It’s derived from hemp
- Contains no more than 0.3% THC
However, because the CBD industry is unregulated, there’s no overseeing agency that ensures all products available to consumers meet these criteria. This is why it’s important to buy from a reputable brand that has all of its products tested by a third party lab.
Federal Legalization Doesn’t Override Lower Level Laws
One thing that people forget is that there are laws at all levels, starting at the top (federal) all the way down to the bottom (local). While CBD products may be legal at the federal level, states and even local municipalities may still have laws that ban such products.
Take the time to research applicable laws in your destination. This is especially important if you’re traveling outside of the United States. While some countries have similar rules, there are others that don’t recognize a difference between marijuana and CBD products.
Pack Only What You Need
When traveling with CBD, you don’t want to bring every product that you own. For travelers, we highly recommend oils or gummies, as they’re the most convenient to dose and don’t require a beverage to take them.
Be aware that most states have a limit of 150g or a 30 day dose of CBD. Bringing more than this could get you into trouble.
To be safe, bring only what you need to make it through your trip. This way there’s no risk of bringing too large of an amount.
Also remember the TSA travel restrictions for liquids. This only applies if you’re packing CBD oil, or a CBD-infused drink, into your carry-on bag. If you’re caught with a higher amount than allowed, TSA will confiscate your CBD products.
Pack the Certificate of Analysis
Along with your CBD, you’ll also want to bring along any documentation, especially the certificate of analysis (COA). This documentation is especially important in proving that the product in your possession is legal.
A product’s COA provides in-depth information into what a product contains, to include:
- CBD and THC levels
- Levels of other plant compounds
- Existence of any harmful compounds
If you’re pulled aside and questioned about your CBD, providing a COA is the best way to show proof that the product is legal and falls within the federal guidelines. Without documentation, authorities will more than likely confiscate your CBD products.
Know Before You Go
As discussed earlier, it’s important to research and follow any applicable laws in the location you’re flying to. If you’re traveling to another country, pay close attention to the marijuana and CBD laws. Places like France, Canada, and the U.K. have legalized CBD. But other countries have not.
If you’re unsure if CBD is allowed, it’s best to err on the side of caution and leave your CBD at home. Otherwise you could face legal issues, which is no way to start a vacation!
