With summer travel reaching record numbers and millions navigating through airport security, many travelers are questioning what they can and cannot bring in their luggage—particularly when it comes to marijuana and CBD products. As of June 2024, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has already experienced some of its busiest days ever, adding an extra layer of stress to air travel.
Navigating TSA’s regulations can often feel as complex as the laws surrounding the use of marijuana and CBD across various states. Here’s a practical guide to understanding what you can and cannot bring along during your flights, especially concerning cannabis-related products.
Understanding Federal and State Marijuana Laws
As more states legalize the medical and recreational use of marijuana, the intersection of state legislation with federal travel regulations creates a confusing landscape for travelers. For instance, Ohio and Kentucky recently joined the list of states that have legalized marijuana in some form. However, despite these changes at the state level, marijuana remains illegal under federal law, which governs air travel and airport security operations.
TSA Guidelines on Marijuana and CBD
When it comes to traveling with marijuana or its derivatives, TSA’s official stance is nuanced. The agency permits travelers to carry products that contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis or those approved by the FDA. Currently, the only FDA-approved cannabis-related products are Epidiolex, Marinol, Syndros, and Cesamet—used mainly to manage conditions like epilepsy and chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Can You Fly with CBD and Edibles?
If your CBD products or edibles meet the aforementioned THC content requirements, you are technically allowed to bring them through TSA checkpoints in either your checked baggage or carry-on. However, it’s essential to be prepared for potential scrutiny. TSA officers are primarily focused on security and may conduct additional screenings if they suspect a substance could pose a security threat. While they are not actively searching for marijuana or other drugs, if found during security screenings, local law enforcement will be notified and may take action based on the laws of the jurisdiction.
Risk of Traveling with Non-Compliant Products
Traveling with marijuana products that do not comply with TSA’s guidelines can lead to delays, confiscations, or even legal repercussions. This is irrespective of whether marijuana is legal in the state you are departing from or arriving in. For example, airports like Chicago’s O’Hare and Los Angeles International have implemented measures such as amnesty boxes for disposing of marijuana legally before passing through security or warnings about the federal jurisdiction over airport screening processes.
Airlines’ Policies on Cannabis
Major airlines, including Delta and American, have policies that prohibit the transportation of marijuana on their aircraft. These rules apply regardless of the origin or destination state’s marijuana laws. Travelers found carrying marijuana on flights risk facing penalties from the airline, TSA, or local law enforcement.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Review TSA’s Regulations: Before packing, check the latest TSA guidelines on what is permissible to bring in your carry-on or checked luggage.
- Check State Laws: Understand the marijuana laws of both your departure and destination states. Even if you legally purchase marijuana, it may not be legal to bring it across state lines.
- Consider Legal Alternatives: If traveling with THC is essential for your health, consider traveling to destinations where it can be legally purchased upon arrival, thereby avoiding the risks of flying with it.
- Prepare for Screening: If you carry CBD products that meet federal guidelines, ensure they are easily accessible in your luggage for TSA screening.
- Use TSA’s Resources: If unsure, use TSA’s contact center or social media to inquire about specific items before your travel day.
Conclusion
As the legal landscape for marijuana continues to evolve, so too does the complexity of traveling with these products. While TSA is not primarily concerned with detecting drugs, the federal laws that govern air travel make it imperative for passengers to thoroughly understand and comply with all regulations. By staying informed and cautious, travelers can navigate these rules successfully and ensure their travels remain as smooth and stress-free as possible.
