Because CBD has no psychoactive effects, traveling with it is often possible.
But is it legal? Could security checks cause problems? These questions often concern people traveling with CBD.
Demand is increasing because CBD is nonpsychoactive and used for many conditions. Unclear regulations and differences between countries nevertheless create complexity.
CBD laws and regulations
CBD laws improved substantially in the decade before this article. The same cannot be said for travel policies.
In the United States, transport security, including airports, falls under the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), an agency of the Department of Homeland Security. TSA therefore follows federal rules.
At the time described here, the TSA website explicitly prohibited medical cannabis in carry-on or checked luggage and included CBD oil in that prohibition.
Can I fly with CBD oil?
Under the TSA rules discussed, carrying cannabis-derived CBD oil was prohibited because it was a federal offense.
By contrast, hemp-derived CBD, described in the source as coming from male hemp, was not a federal offense and would therefore not constitute a TSA offense.
Because these cannot be distinguished by sight, caution is always needed when traveling with CBD.
Tips for traveling with CBD
If planning to bring CBD on your next flight, these simple preparations may help.
Research the countries on your route
Even where CBD-rich hemp is permitted federally, some rules vary by state. States with strict CBD rules may cause problems.
Research CBD laws in both your current country and destination.
Review the product's certificate of analysis (COA)
Poorly made products may contain low-quality CBD or excess THC. Even “THC-FREE” products may contain THC and be illegal.
Before buying, ensure THC is below 0.3% and examine laboratory reports.
Printing and carrying the report offers additional reassurance when traveling.
Pack the product correctly
Like other liquids, CBD products such as oils, lotions and gels must meet travel packaging requirements.
Avoid hiding them; grouping them with other liquids is recommended so they do not appear suspicious.
International travel with CBD
Because countries' CBD and THC laws are generally unclear, we do not recommend traveling internationally with CBD.
