Flying with Cannabis: What You Need to Know Now

by Brad Lightall | May 24, 2025 | 0 Comments

Understanding Federal vs. State Laws

Understanding Federal vs. State Laws

I’ve seen firsthand how crossing state lines can be stressful when cannabis is involved. As of early 2025, recreational marijuana is legal in at least 24 states, while 38 states (plus D.C. and some U.S. territories) allow it for medical use. Yet it’s still classified as illegal under federal law. That’s why airport security agents and customs officials often enforce stricter federal regulations even in states where marijuana is otherwise allowed. The disconnect between state and federal rules can lead to major confusion and potential legal issues at airports.

From my perspective, that confusion stems from outdated policies that haven’t caught up to state-level changes. According to a recent policy review published in the Journal of Cannabis Research, the disparity between state and federal marijuana laws is unlikely to be resolved overnight. This means even individuals with valid medical marijuana cards can face penalties if they don’t follow federal rules when traveling by air.

It’s important to understand that federal law supersedes state law at airports. That means if you’re carrying any form of cannabis through an airport—even in a state where it’s legal—you run a risk of confiscation, fines, or arrest. Knowing this, I always urge people to do some homework on both local and federal guidelines before packing anything that might raise eyebrows at security checkpoints.

The TSA’s Role

The TSA's Role

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) primarily focuses on threats to aviation, such as weapons or explosives. Marijuana, in theory, is a lower priority. However, agents are obligated to report anything that’s illegal under federal law, which includes cannabis containing more than 0.3% THC. This can trigger law enforcement involvement, which is a hassle nobody wants mid-travel.

In my own travels, I’ve observed that TSA screenings vary somewhat by airport. Some airports may have more advanced scanning technology, while others rely on manual inspections if something looks suspicious on the scanner. If an agent suspects you’re carrying illegal substances, they’re likely to contact local or federal authorities. It’s not uncommon for travelers to experience significant delays—or even miss flights—while the matter is sorted out.

That said, official TSA communication suggests they aren’t going out of their way to search for cannabis. Instead, they focus on safety threats. But be aware: once they do find marijuana over the legal THC threshold, the matter is no longer just about airport security—it becomes a legal issue. So if you’re flying with questionable items, you could be in for an unplanned conversation with airport police or federal officers.

CBD, THC, and the 0.3% Rule

CBD, THC, and the 0.3% Rule

Under federal guidelines, products with less than 0.3% THC are categorized as hemp-derived rather than marijuana. I’ve heard many fellow travelers talk about how they rely on CBD for anxiety or joint pain during long flights. Generally, CBD products with low THC levels are less likely to attract scrutiny. For example, studies show that properly labeled CBD items from reputable manufacturers often pass inspections without incident.

However, certificates of analysis for CBD products aren’t always at hand. If TSA officers can’t verify the THC content on the spot, they’re more prone to confiscate the product or, in extreme cases, involve local law enforcement. In my view, it’s crucial to keep original packaging or lab results if you must bring CBD along, but that still doesn’t guarantee a trouble-free experience.

Travelers should also bear in mind the evolving landscape of CBD regulations in different states. A 2024 consumer affairs report found that many CBD products on the market didn’t match their label claims, which underscores why TSA agents may remain skeptical. To avoid confusion and potential losses, I generally recommend picking up CBD-infused items once you’ve reached a legal destination rather than risking it on the flight.

Domestic Travel Considerations

Domestic Travel Considerations

Flying domestically within the United States might feel more relaxed, but it doesn’t automatically exempt you from complications. Airport policies can differ substantially, even within the same state. In some jurisdictions, local police may be more lenient if you have a valid medical marijuana card, whereas in others, officers might strictly enforce federal restrictions.

In my travels, I’ve learned that even if you board an airplane in a state where recreational use is legal, you could land in a state where rules are stricter. The flight itself operates under federal jurisdiction, so you’re still at risk the moment you step into that federal space. Checking updated policies at both your departure and arrival airports is a must.

For flyers who need medical cannabis, documentation is sometimes helpful but not always foolproof. According to industry data, a handful of airlines have their own guidelines on carrying prescription medications, but these don’t necessarily override TSA or federal rules. Always read airline-specific policies. When in doubt, I tend to err on the side of leaving my cannabis products at home to avoid any potential headaches.

International Travel

International Travel

Crossing international borders with cannabis is a major no-go. Each country has its own set of laws, and penalties for possession can be extremely harsh. For instance, some places enforce hefty fines or jail time for even small amounts of marijuana. I met a traveler who, not long ago, was detained for carrying what they believed to be legal CBD oil into a country that classified it as a banned substance.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is equally vigilant. A recent report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime highlighted the global instability of cannabis laws, emphasizing that many countries penalize cannabis possession more severely than the U.S. does at the federal level. This uncertainty is why I usually advise leaving any form of cannabis—including infused edibles—behind when going abroad.

Even if you’re traveling from one “cannabis-friendly” country or state to another, you’re still crossing international checkpoints where different laws apply. To me, that’s a recipe for a legal quagmire. Play it safe and steer clear of packing marijuana in your luggage if your itinerary leads you overseas.

Top 3 Tips for Cannabis-Carrying Flyers

Top 3 Tips for Cannabis-Carrying Flyers

1. Know the Laws: I can’t stress this enough: always do your research. Check government websites for both your origin and destination. A state’s stance on recreational marijuana might not match local airport policies. Keeping tap on the latest regulations ensures fewer unpleasant surprises.

When possible, I recommend looking at local news sources for real-time updates. Regulations can shift rapidly, and what was allowed yesterday might become restricted tomorrow. Familiarizing yourself with the guidelines can save you a stressful confrontation.

2. Understand the Risks: The federal prohibition remains in place, and TSA is duty-bound to escalate any suspected violations. I’ve witnessed travelers losing expensive products to confiscation. More unfortunate scenarios include fines or arrests, particularly if you’re carrying large quantities.

Some airports in legal states have “amnesty boxes” where passengers can discard cannabis items before security checks, but these aren’t available everywhere. If you’re unsure whether your items are acceptable, it might be better to err on the safe side and offload them before you get to the airport.

3. Consider Safer Alternatives: If you absolutely need a cannabis-related product to manage stress or medical symptoms while en route, hemp-derived items under 0.3% THC are typically more acceptable. In many cases, legal CBD can replicate some of the calming benefits of THC-heavy products. That said, not all labeling is accurate, so read the fine print.

I’ve personally opted for hemp-derived CBD tinctures in several instances without any issues at security. Still, the ultimate peace of mind often comes from leaving your stash at home. For frequent flyers, traveling light and worrying less about airport scrutiny can be a game-changer.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

Navigating cannabis regulations in the aviation world demands staying vigilant. The tricky dance between state-friendly laws and federal prohibitions is still very much ongoing. In my experience, investing time in research pays off far more than rolling the dice at security checkpoints.

Ultimately, you need to assess your personal comfort level with carrying any type of cannabis product. While some individuals skate by without issues, others find themselves caught up in steep fines or legal encounters. Awareness and preparation remain your best defenses.

Stay informed about evolving legislation, and don’t forget that what’s valid today might become obsolete down the road. Being proactive helps you sidestep the tangled web of disparate laws and keeps your journey moving smoothly.

Brad Lightall’s Take

When I’m weighing whether to fly with cannabis, I compare it to deciding if I should pack that extra pair of hiking boots. Is it truly worth the added weight and potential hassle? In most cases, I’ve found a simpler route to be best—pick it up legally at your destination or rely on low-THC alternatives.

Cannabis culture has made huge strides, but our air travel infrastructure hasn’t fully caught up. Until it does, I’ll be watching the developments and sharing the most practical insights I gather along the way.

Stay with us at BoardingArea for more.

Also on BoardingArea
Your Mileage May Vary
6 Things That Can Get Your Luggage Flagged By TSA
With so many more people traveling through airports and the TSA scrambling to hire more employees (would YOU want to work at a place that treats their workers like this?),…
Paddle Your Own Kanoo
Passenger Onboard Ryanair Plane Will Need 3 Surgeries After Jumping From Wing That Didn’t Appear Configured For Emergency Evacuation
A passenger who was on a Ryanair Boeing 737 that evacuated onto the tarmac of Palma Airport on the Spanish island of Mallorca in the early hours of Saturday morning has been told that she’ll need three surgeries to repair the horrendous injuries she sustained when she jumped from wing...
Travel Codex
Exclusive Sale: Lindblad Expeditions More Than 30% off Public Pricing
Galápagos, Baja California, Panama Canal, France, Scotland, or the wilds of the Arctic with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic is on sale. Now is the time to make that dream a reality and explore the world! From Patagonia to Copenhagen, Svalbard to Baja California and nearly everywhere in-between I have...
The Bulkhead Seat
Foam Frenzy: Spirit Airlines Hangar in Detroit Overflows After System Malfunction
Spirit Airlines found itself in a sticky situation at its maintenance facility on July… The post Foam Frenzy: Spirit Airlines Hangar in Detroit Overflows After System Malfunction appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.
Travel Codex
Seabourn Antarctica Sale. Patagonia, South Georgia and Antarctica from just $9,399!
Every time I think prices have hit rocked bottom I stumble across a new deal. Deals so good I have to share them. There’s no pretending, I love Antarctica. I’ve been twice on Seabourn alone and these deals are so hot I am trying to convince my partner to go...
One Mile at a Time
How Much Are Airline, Hotel, And Credit Card Points Worth?
I often get asked how much I value various miles & points currencies, including those issued with credit cards, airlines, and hotels. The truth is that there’s no valuation for these currencies that everyone will agree on. That’s because the value that you’ll get from rewards points will vary significantly...
Economy Class & Beyond
Airplane Art – Wizz Air Malta Airbus A321neo at Bucharest Henri Coandă Airport
It’s Sunday again, so it must be time for some more Airplane Art.  This week, we have a Wizz Air Malta Airbus A321neo parked at Bucharest Henri Coandă Airport as it awaits its next duty. Wizz Air’s Malta unit operates a fleet of 71 Airbus A321neo aircraft in its fleet. The...
Your Mileage May Vary
We Love This Cheap NYC Transportation Most People Don’t Know About
Navigating New York City can be challenging, even for seasoned New Yorkers. It’s even more confusing if it’s your first trip to the city. My wife, Sharon, and I fall…
Frequent Flyer Bonuses
Earn 2x Aeroplan points on Air Canada flights between Canada and Asia, Australia, Europe, South America, Mexico or the Caribbean
Air Canada has a new early bird flight bonus for most international flights this fall! Aeroplan members who register and book flights during this promotion will earn 2x points on flights to Asia, Australia, Europe, South America, Mexico or the Caribbean. As with all Aeroplan flight bonuses this offer is...
Frequent Miler
$100 inKind gift card for $64.99 at Costco.com
Costco is once again offering a $100 inKind gift card for a discount, though this time around the price has dropped to $64.99 (the most recent previous sale was at $69.99). This could be a good deal if you have upcoming plans to dine at an inKind restaurant. You can also...
Monkey Miles
Get up to 50% off at Amazon by using just 1 Amex Point – Targeted, up to $80
Get up to 50% off at Amazon by using a single Amex Point! The post Get up to 50% off at Amazon by using just 1 Amex Point – Targeted, up to $80 appeared first on Monkey Miles.
The Gate with Brian Cohen
3 Reasons Why I Back Into Parking Spots
This article on the 3 reasons why I back into parking spots is written primarily pertaining to rental vehicles while traveling in countries around the world; but they also apply to my own vehicle at and near where I am based as well. Driving a vehicle typically requires a place to...
One Mile at a Time
Shockingly Classy: Kuwait Airways Chairman Apologizes To YouTuber
Several days ago, I wrote about how popular aviation YouTuber Nonstop Dan had a horrible flight in Kuwait Airways first class, where he was threatened for filming. This first involved the purser, then the captain, then the ground staff, and then the police. The level of escalation here was just...
Altitude Yes
All About the Collins Aurora Business Class Seat, Coming to American’s A321XLR
American's A321XLRs are still some time away, but there's a lot to look forward to with their new interior. The post All About the Collins Aurora Business Class Seat, Coming to American’s A321XLR first appeared on Altitude Yes.
View from the Wing
How Much Free Food Is Too Much? Travelers Test The Limits At United Airlines’ Airport Minimarts
It's a place to pick up packaged food, like chips, veggies, fruit and sad salads. What people like best is (1) the barista made coffee, and (2) free food since you really aren't supposed to take food from United's regular clubs (but people still do). Continue reading How...
Your Mileage May Vary
Has CLEAR Jumped the Shark?
As I was perusing the internets the other day, I found a discussion on Reddit from a while ago that brought up something I had been thinking about, albeit in…
Miles To Memories
Don’t Close That Bank of America Card – Do This, Instead
We're often busy with the newest points and travel developments. But the Bank of America product change remains and shouldn't be forgotten. The post Don’t Close That Bank of America Card – Do This, Instead appeared first on Miles to Memories.
Economy Class & Beyond
Air Asia signs a MoU for up to 70 Airbus A321XLR aircraft
AirAsia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for up to 70 Airbus A321XLR aircraft. The MoU with Airbus is valued at USD12.25 billion. It will cover a firm order for 50 A321XLRs with purchase rights for 20 A321XLRs when formally completed. Witnessed by Prime Minister of Malaysia YAB Dato’...
Wingtips
WingTips Weekly: Mile-High Mayhem and Status Games
Welcome to Wingtips Weekly: Is it just us, or is the aviation world getting wilder by the week?… The post WingTips Weekly: Mile-High Mayhem and Status Games appeared first on Wingtips.
Live and Let’s Fly
Questions (And Answers) About Ritz-Carlton Yachts “Struggles”
Another blogger raised questions about Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s “struggles” and trouble with the brand, and market. Here is my response as a luxury travel agency owner specializing in this market. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Financial “Struggles” Details were released this week of the financial “struggles” of the 55% owner of Ritz-Carlton...
One Mile at a Time
What Are Ritz-Carlton Reserve Resorts? Locations & How To Book
Ritz-Carlton Reserve is a brand that causes confusion among some consumers, especially among those who are Marriott Bonvoy members. What are Ritz-Carlton Reserve properties? What makes them different from other Ritz-Carlton resorts? Do they participate in Marriott Bonvoy? In this post, I want to answer some of those questions, especially...
One Mile at a Time
Is The Hilton Business Credit Card Worth The Annual Fee?
Hotel credit cards are often underrated, given the welcome bonuses and valuable perks that they can offer. The Hilton Business Card is Hilton’s only small business credit card, and it’s an example of how valuable hotel credit cards can be.
Frequent Flyer Bonuses
Air France KLM Flying Blue: Earn 2x miles + save up to 15% on Sixt car rentals worldwide
Earn 2x Flying Blue Miles and save up to 15% on Sixt car rentals worldwide. Plus, earn 1,000 bonus miles if you choose Smart or All Inclusive coverage for your rental. Rentals must be booked online via landing that is linked below to earn the miles. Book by Jul 31...
Points With a Crew
19 Tech and Travel Deals at Amazon This Weekend
Some decent Amazon weekend deals on travel and tech gear going on this weekend, including headphones, luggage, locks, packing cubes and supplies, travel books and ...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Categories

Our Bloggers