What Every Traveler Should Know About Flying With Weed
If you’ve ever wondered, can you take edibles on a plane? You’re not alone because more and more people are asking, “What will happen if they get caught flying with edibles?
With the increasing legalization of cannabis in many states, people want to know if they are ok flying with edibles.
Weed has been legalized for recreational purposes in 24 states as of May 2024. Currently, 38 states (plus Washington, D.C., and three territories) allow marijuana possession for medical purposes.
Although these states have implemented legislation for their residents and visitors, marijuana remains a federal offense as an illegal controlled substance, punishable by one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will move to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug; the historic shift to generations of American drug policy could have wide ripple effects across the country.
The proposal, which still must be reviewed by the White House Office of Management and Budget, would recognize the medical uses of cannabis and acknowledge it has less potential for abuse than some of the nation’s most dangerous drugs.
However, it would not legalize marijuana outright for recreational use.
This makes navigating the rules confusing when traveling from a state where marijuana is legally allowed to one where it’s not.
While flying with edible can be tricky, it’s doable with the right approach!
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Maybe you spent the weekend in Vegas or decided to relax in Phoenix or Tempe, AZ, so of course, you stopped by one of the many dispensaries and picked up a “Lil something something” to take back home with you.
How do you get your weed from the destination and back home? Flying with a weed can be scary if you have never flown with it before.
The issue of weed in the air has been debated repeatedly. Still, the fact remains that thousands of people get busted every year attempting to transport marijuana across country lines.
Whether you’re planning to travel somewhere in the US or across an ocean, you’ll want to be prepared with these tips for the best way to hide weed or edibles so you won’t get caught and end up in jail.
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Short Summary: Flying with Edibles
- Flying with weed is generally safe for travelers, but please understand TSA rules and regulations.
- Consider checking the government website for updated information on the Marijuana Enforcement Policy.
- Follow my tips, such as packing weed in a smell-proof container.
- Familiarize yourself with federal and local laws.
So, the burning question: Is Flying with edibles safe? Let’s dive in and unravel the details!
When traveling domestically to states where marijuana is permitted, the Transportation Security Administration allows products containing up to 0.3% or less of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC.
“Transportation Security Officers are not law enforcement, but they are obligated to contact local law enforcement if it appears as though a passenger has a criminally banned item,” like pot or cannabis.
TSA Rules on Flying with Weed
The role of the transportation security administration is to stop dangerous items from getting inside airplane cabins.
When they scan carry-on bags, they mainly search for liquids (that could be flammable, safety hazards, or weapons that could be used on the plane.
The TSA doesn’t have any rules that refer directly to edibles, but some rules and procedures are essential to know about regarding flying with edibles.
Understanding if you can fly with weed can be confusing, especially when understanding the rules set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
While the legalization of cannabis is on the rise in many states, it’s important to remember that federal law still considers it illegal.
Therefore, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the TSA rules to avoid any potential problems or legal issues when traveling with weed, edibles, or other cannabis products.
First and foremost, it’s important to note that the TSA’s primary focus is on security threats, such as explosives and weapons.
According to its official policy, the TSA aims to identify and prevent potential security risks when passengers board an aircraft.
While they do not actively search for drugs, if they find them or if a drug-sniffing dog comes across them during the screening process, they are required to report it to law enforcement.
So, what does this mean for flying with weed? Well, according to the TSA, if TSA officers find marijuana or cannabis-infused products during the screening process, their policy is to notify local law enforcement.
The local law enforcement authorities decide whether to pursue criminal charges, which means you could go to jail, or they could take your stash and let you go.
It’s worth noting that some airports, especially in states where cannabis is legal, have implemented policies that prioritize security over minor cannabis possession.
However, this varies from airport to airport, so it’s crucial to research the specific policies of the airports you’ll be traveling through.
When it comes to whether you can bring a THC vape pen on a plane, it’s essential to follow the same guidelines as traveling with any other cannabis product.
While certain states have eased restrictions on the use and possession of marijuana, travelers must recognize that federal law unequivocally forbids the importation of any quantity of this substance,” emphasized CBP El Paso Director of Field Operations Hector Mancha in a statement.
“Under no circumstances should individuals attempt to cross the border with any amount of marijuana.”
The TSA checkpoint allows passengers to carry vape pens on a plane, but they must be placed in carry-on baggage and cannot be used during the flight.
It’s also essential to ensure the vape pen complies with the airline’s regulations on the size and quantity of liquids or batteries allowed onboard.
TSA agents are not actively going to search your carry-on bag or personal item for marijuana, disposable vape pens, or any vape products, for that matter.
That should make you feel a little bit better if you were planning on bringing marijuana on a plane, but you still need to understand that you can still get busted for marijuana even in states that have legalized it.
In some airports, you may find so-called “amnesty boxes,” which are designed for you to drop your marijuana products into before heading through the airport.
Check out the TSA website, which states Marijuana and certain cannabis-infused products, including some Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, remain illegal under federal law” per the TSA.
Can you fly with medical marijuana?
The same TSA rules apply to traveling with medical marijuana as with recreational marijuana.
Marijuana and cannabis-infused products, including some those with (CBD) oil, are also illegal under federal law,” per the TSA.
Flying With Edibles: What’s Allowed?
Navigating the rules becomes more intricate when carrying cannabis-infused or THC products like oil, leaf marijuana, and edibles while traveling the friendly skies.
These items, still illegal under federal law, are strictly prohibited.
However, the landscape is nuanced for certain marijuana-derived substances. For instance, although CBD oil derived from hemp has been legal since 2018, the TSA maintains its prohibition on oil.
According to TSA regulations, vape pens are permissible in carry-on bags only, provided they do not contain lithium batteries exceeding 100 watt-hours.
It’s essential to note that if the vape pen cartridges carry THC, they are considered illegal at the federal level. On the other hand, marijuana paraphernalia, such as bowls or pipes, are allowed in carry-on luggage.
How to get Edibles through airport security
If you have edibles, flowers, or pre-rolls, there are plenty of ways to get them through airport security.
If you are traveling with just the flower, empty any bottle of over-the-counter medication like Ibuprofen or purchase a smell-proof bag to put your weed in.
If you decide to use a medication bottle, put some cotton balls on top of the weed, then put ibuprofen on top of the cotton balls until the bottle is filled to the top. No one will ever know!
Ladies, put your edibles or pre-rolls in the OG Stash box, which looks like a makeup box.
Pack an extra purse, and when you are flying with your vape pen, put it in the zipper, but make sure the vape cartridge or vape batteries are not attached.
If you get caught with edibles while traveling through the airport, nothing will happen to you other than the TSA will call local authorities, and the police will throw the weed out, and you will probably miss your flight.
As I stated above, TSA focuses on terrorism and security threats to the aircraft and its passengers.
TSA’s screening procedures, governed by federal law, are focused on security and are designed to detect potential threats to aviation and passengers, not your small bag of edibles.
Unless you are traveling with large amounts of weed or edibles, it will probably go undetected in the screening process. Trust me here; they are not concerned about your edibles.
When asked if you’re carrying marijuana, play dumb and say something like, I don’t know what you mean. Marijuana? Do you think I have drugs? No way! Don’t be ridiculous.
Tips for Taking Edibles on a Plane
If you’re planning to fly with edibles, you should follow a few tips to ensure you don’t get caught.
Here are some essential things to consider:
1. Research the airline’s website: Before packing your vape devices, edibles, or flowers, check the specific regulations of the airline you’ll be flying with. Airlines may have different rules and restrictions on the size and quantity of liquids or lithium batteries allowed on board. It’s always better to be informed to avoid any issues at the security checkpoint.
2. Carry your edibles in your carry-on bag: They can be placed in carry-on bags, or checked luggage. I’ve done both and nothing happened because of how I had them hidden in my luggage.
3. Be discreet: While it’s legal to fly with edibles, it’s important to be discreet and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Keep your edibles securely packed in your carry-on bag, and refrain from openly displaying them in public.
By following these tips, you can navigate the rules and regulations surrounding flying with weed.
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1. How Much Weed Can You Fly With
Use common sense, please, folk! Don’t fly with a duffle bag full of edibles and flowers.
Buy only enough weed for your trip. Consider buying an ounce or less and putting it into multiple containers (for example, one in each pair of shoes).
Not only will that help you avoid overpacking, but it also means you can take advantage of TSA’s 3-ounce limit by removing what you need without getting rid of everything else.
It’s a federal crime. Only fly with how much you will need while you are traveling. I suggest only flying with a small amount, which is considered one-eighth.
An eighth of weed by weight is an eighth of an ounce. For reference, an empty soda can weighs about half an ounce.
By grams, an eighth of an ounce weighs about 3.5 grams, just a bit more than the average penny, which weighs 3 grams.
2. What is the best way to hide weed
If you don’t want weed in your carry-on luggage, bring an empty smell-proof bottle and fill it with edibles. My favorite is the smell-proof bags from Amazon.
You could then roll some plastic wrap into an egg shape and slip it inside the pill bottle before turning the top back on.
You can put edibles in your carry-on or checked luggage if you are packing them. Purchase a bag of resealable Haribo gummies from Walgreens or any convenience store, empty the contents, and replace them with your edibles.
No one will know the difference because edibles look precisely like candy, from sour apple gummies and mixed berries to mango gummy rounds.
No need to spend your entire flight nervous, looking around, and freaking out, thinking the police will be waiting on you once you land at your destination.
Carry-on bags are likely to go unsearched while we know TSA will randomly go through your luggage, and even if they do, how will they know the gummies are weed vs. regular candy you purchased to snack on while you are on vacation?
The same goes for hiding the flower as well. TSA will probably not check your carry-on, so I suggest putting your flower buds in a smell-proof pouch or bottle, whether carrying or checking your luggage.
Put the smell-proof bottle in your makeup bag, and you are all set. I promise you nobody is searching random pill bottles for weed of any kind.
Click here for my complete list of cannabis accessories that will help you stay safe while flying with a THC Vape pen.
3. Choosing Your Flight Time Wisely
Choosing an appropriate flight time is critical to sneaking weed onto a plane. A full flight means more people nearby, increasing your chances of being caught.
Avoid traveling between 11 am and 4 pm because that’s when most business travelers depart and arrive—and they’re unlikely to pay attention to whether you smell like weed.
4. Be Respectful of TSA Agents
While it’s understandable that you want to sneak your goods past TSA agents, there are ways to do so without disrespecting others.
With these six tips in mind, you should be able to take advantage of flying with weed—and still avoid getting into trouble with TSA.
5. Don’t Be Rude When Questioned
You may have every right to carry your weed, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be respectful and courteous when questioned by security.
If you are being questioned, do not get aggressive or rude. Keep your cool, and don’t act like you think they have no right to ask you what they are asking.
Once you make it to your destination, What do you do?
Once you land, you are technically in the clear, so just be safe if you smoke weed in a foreign country and research the laws of the destination you are traveling to.
Don’t become the next Brittney Griner.
What to Do If You Get Caught with Edibles at the Airport
If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being caught with edibles at the airport, it’s essential to know what to do to minimize the potential consequences.
While every situation is different, here are some general steps you can take if you face this predicament.
First and foremost, it is essential to stay calm and cooperate with the authorities. Getting angry or argumentative will only make the situation worse.
Remember that the TSA agents and law enforcement officials are just doing their jobs; getting confrontational will not help your case.
Local law enforcement will likely be notified once you have been caught with weed.
At this point, it’s essential to be honest and provide any necessary information they may ask for, like your medical marijuana card. Lying or providing false information can lead to more severe charges and legal complications.
You may be given a citation or even face criminal charges depending on your circumstances and state.
It’s essential to understand the laws of the state you are in and the potential penalties associated with cannabis possession.
If you are unsure about your rights or the legal implications of your situation, it’s always a good idea to consult with a lawyer who specializes in cannabis laws.
It’s also important to note that the consequences of getting caught with weed at the airport can extend beyond legal ramifications.
Depending on your destination, you may be denied entry or face additional questioning by immigration officials. This can have long-lasting effects on your ability to travel internationally.
Consequences of Flying with Edibles
Getting caught with weed at the airport can have serious consequences, both legally and in terms of your ability to travel.
While the specific outcomes may vary depending on the circumstances and the state you are in, it’s important to understand the potential ramifications and take the necessary steps to minimize any adverse effects.
One of the immediate consequences of getting caught with weed at the airport is that local police will likely be notified.
This can lead to various outcomes, from receiving a citation to facing criminal charges.
The severity of the charges will depend on factors such as the quantity of cannabis in your possession and the local laws of the state you are in.
In addition to potential legal repercussions, getting caught with weed at the airport can also have an impact on your ability to travel internationally.
Depending on your destination, you may be denied entry or subjected to additional questioning by immigration officials.
This can create long-lasting difficulties and limitations when it comes to traveling outside of your home country.
It’s important to note that the consequences of getting caught with a vape pen on a plane can be similar to those of getting caught with weed.
Even if you are not carrying actual marijuana, if the vape pen contains THC, it is still considered a controlled substance.
This means that you may still face legal and travel consequences if you are caught with a vape pen that contains THC.
the Harshest Cannabis Laws Around the World
| Country | Prison Sentence for Marijuana Possession |
|---|---|
| Nigeria | 4 Years |
| Uganda | 5-10 Years |
| Tunisia | 5 Years |
| France | 1 Year Or Fine |
| Sweden | 6 Months to 10 Years |
| Slovakia | 3 to 5 Years |
| Saudi Arabia | 1-6 months + Lashes |
| UAE | 4 Years |
| Turkey | Fine or 5 Years Prison (Min. 2 years) |
| El Salvador | 1-6 Years |
| Venezuela | 2-3 Years |
| Singapore | 10 Years + SG$20,000 + Caning |
| Malaysia | Fine + 2-5 years + Lashes |
| Indonesia | 4-14 Years |
| Philippines | Up to Life Imprisonment |
| Brunei | Up to 30 Years + $20,000 Fine |
| Alabama (US) | 1 Year + $6,000 |
| Iowa (US) | $1,000 Fine |
| American Samoa | 5 Years + $5,000 |
| China | 15 Days Detention Or Fine |
| Russia | 15 Days – 3 Years |
| Japan | 5-7 Years + $20,000 |
Suppose you’re caught possessing, using, selling, distributing, or smuggling cannabis into these countries practicing strict prohibition.
In that case, you’re likely to be met with the full force of the law, resulting in very harsh fines, lengthy prison stints, or death.
So make sure you put your edibles or weed in the hotel safe, or you can purchase a diversion can before leaving, and no one will think to look inside a can of coke, deodorant, or even a bible.
18 States Where You Can Legally Purchase Recreational Weed/Edibles
These are the 18 states, plus Washington, D.C., that allow recreational weed use—and medical marijuana, as well. New Mexico, Connecticut, and Virginia are the most recent additions, with legal weed permitted to residents in all three as of July 1.
- Alaska
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- District of Columbia
- Illinois
- Maine
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Nevada
- Oregon
The 18 States with Legal Medical Marijuana
In addition to the 18 states plus D.C. with legalized recreational weed—and therefore legal medical marijuana—these 18 states have legalized just medical marijuana. NORML has a full rundown of each state’s law.
• Arkansas
• Delaware
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• New Hampshire
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Dakota
• Utah
• West Virginia
Valuable Resources for Your Travel
- Expedia: the best website for finding cheap flight deals and hotels
- Hotels.com: another excellent hotel booking website for finding fabulous accommodations.
- Tripadvisor: this famous review website now allows you to book accommodation and tours directly.
- Get Your Guide: my favorite resource for finding tours and activities,
- Viator: another excellent option for finding fun things to do, skip-the-line tickets, and fabulous tours
- American Express: Apply for an American Express Card using this link.
Conclusion: Can you take edibles on a plane
Flying with weed can be a risky endeavor, even with the increasing legalization of cannabis in many states.
While it may be tempting to try and bring your favorite strain or edibles on your next flight, it’s crucial to weigh the potential consequences.
Getting caught with weed at the airport can lead to legal issues, ranging from citations to criminal charges.
That being said, if you do choose to fly with weed, it’s crucial to understand the TSA rules and regulations and the specific policies of the airports you’ll be traveling through.
Being informed can help minimize the risk of getting caught and potentially reduce adverse outcomes.
It’s also important to be discreet and avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself. Keep your cannabis securely packed in your carry-on bag, follow airline regulations for vape pens, and avoid discussing your products openly.
In the end, it’s a personal decision on flying with edibles, but it’s essential to consider the potential risks and consequences.
Staying informed, being discreet, and prioritizing your safety are key factors to remember if you take the risk.
Again, here is my complete list of Cannabis accessories.
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Been flying with stash for 3 decades. Your article seems to be that aged also. No med bottles, no cotton, no pills on top. You had me until you said condoms. LOLOL Now I know you’re just making stuff up. Just smelly-proof bags and throw it in your carry-on. X-RAY cannot tell one organic material from another, so weed in a smelly-proof bag looks no different than a tea bag or sugar packet.
100% agreed. Edibles go in my 7-day pill box, mixed in with the vitamins and OTC pain relievers. I avoid traveling with flower these days, but when I did (back before anything was legal anywhere), I’d pack a bunch of mint tea bags in a Ziploc bag and replace the tea leaves in some of the bags with flower. The mint aroma overpowered everything else. And who’s going to go to the trouble to look inside a tea bag anyway?
Been flying with stash for 3 decades. Your article seems to be that aged also. No med bottles, no cotton, no pills on top. You had me until you said condoms. LOLOL Now I know you’re just making stuff up. Just smelly-proof bags and throw it in your carry-on. X-RAY cannot tell one organic material from another, so weed in a smelly-proof bag looks no different than a tea bag or sugar packet.
100% agreed. Edibles go in my 7-day pill box, mixed in with the vitamins and OTC pain relievers. I avoid traveling with flower these days, but when I did (back before anything was legal anywhere), I’d pack a bunch of mint tea bags in a Ziploc bag and replace the tea leaves in some of the bags with flower. The mint aroma overpowered everything else. And who’s going to go to the trouble to look inside a tea bag anyway?
Great article! I found your insights on the topic of weed vape cartridges to be incredibly informative. As a cannabis enthusiast, I appreciate the emphasis on quality and safety. Your tips for using an oil vape pen are spot on and will surely benefit both beginners and experienced users. Keep up the excellent work in providing valuable content for the cannabis community!