Intro:
The United States is one of the countries leading the world in what you may call a cannabis revolution. Some countries like Canada have fully embraced the drug. Back home, most states and territories have legalized marijuana.
Judging by the massive industry that’s still picking up, it’s easy to see the role cannabis plays in people’s lives.
The biggest push towards legalization and decriminalization isn’t even recreational use. The drug has been proven to have many health benefits, often seen as a safer alternative to conventional medications.
Basically, lots of people are using marijuana now for various reasons, and that’s not going to change.
The reality is that laws don’t change overnight, either.
International Travel With Marijuana
Every country has its laws concerning marijuana. While the legalization and decriminalization movement is happening worldwide, restrictions are still in place, making traveling while in possession a risky move.
In countries where marijuana is illegal, such as Russia and China, you could face serious consequences.
You’re still not free to enter pro-cannabis countries while in possession unless they have guidelines allowing it. In countries like Canada, where marijuana is fully legal, you can’t transport the drug in or outside the country.
The rule of thumb is to ensure you have the necessary info concerning cannabis laws in the country you intend to travel to.
Traveling With marijuana in the U.S
While marijuana is legal in most states, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s still illegal in certain states, such as Nebraska, Texas, and Kansas. Some states have mixed legal and illegal stances, such as Alabama, Arkansas, and Florida.
You may be free to buy and use marijuana in your state, but if you travel with it to states where the drug is illegal or the laws are murky, you’re likely to get in trouble.
Under federal law, you can’t cross state lines with a substance considered illegal federally, which marijuana currently is.
In their guide to traveling with medicinal marijuana, Veriheal discourages taking the drug outside the jurisdiction in which they were acquired unless you’re fully aware of the regulations and maintain precautions.
However, if you’re considering traveling with marijuana in the United States, let’s take a look at how you can do that safely and avoid landing in trouble with the authorities.
When Driving With Cannabis
Some safety guidelines you’ll need to follow when driving with marijuana include:
- If possible, carry marijuana products that don’t have the telltale whiff associated with the drug. Edibles are generally a better option.
- If you must carry the flowers or joints, store them in a smell-proof bag and bring a small amount you can easily keep far out of sight.
- You don’t want to keep your stash in obvious places like the glove box compartment. Hiding your products inside other items and placing those items inside a bag would be a better option.
- While on the journey, try to avoid taking out your marijuana products. You may feel the urge to use it while on the road but moving your stash from its place is risky.
- Avoid consuming marijuana shortly before travel because it’s illegal to drive under the influence, but also avoid having authorities detect the smell on you or the vehicle.
When Flying With Marijuana
When flying with marijuana, consider the following:
- Keep your weed on your person or a carry-on and bring as small an amount as possible. Try not to exceed an ounce of marijuana to avoid more serious consequences in case you get caught.
- While you may not be able to help the anxiety, try to act as normal as you can because airport security is keen on individuals behaving suspiciously.
- Consider using the amnesty boxes available in some airports to get rid of your stash while you still can. Remember, if they have these boxes in place, they are aware of marijuana possessions.
Final Thoughts
Remember, you’re just at risk of getting caught with your stash on the road as when flying. While driving, you have to mind the traffic stops. It’s a lot easier on a plane, but it’s worth noting that airport security is super tight.
Whichever way you want to travel with your stash, bear in mind that it’s not worth the risk. However, if you must travel with marijuana, pay attention to the laws and take precautions.
