Traveling With CBD: What You Need To Know

The western world’s CBD sector is booming, which is great, but the rest of the world is lagging. You might be thinking, then: Can I go abroad while using CBD? Let’s face it: after experiencing the tremendous advantages of CBD, it can be difficult to envision life without it (especially while traveling!)

You are allowed to travel with certain CBD products in several western nations where CBD is authorized. Some countries continue to view CBD as a drug despite the fact that it may contain very small amounts of THC. People have been imprisoned by governments for possessing CBD products, so you must take this seriously.

Table of Contents:

• Key Takeaways
• What is CBD?
• Why Is CBD Popular With Travelers?
• Can You Fly With CBD Products?
• Traveling With CBD Gummies, CBD Oil, or Vapes
• What Might Happen At The Airport?
• Which Countries Have Legalized CBD?
• 3 Tips For Traveling with CBD Products
• Is CBD Legal?
• Choosing The Right CBD For Traveling
• What To Look For When Buying CBD For Travel

Key Takeaways

• Legal Landscape: Traveling with CBD requires understanding the legal landscape of both departure and destination locations, as regulations vary widely globally. Even within the US, state laws on CBD differ.
• Destination Specifics: Before traveling, research CBD regulations in your destination. Some countries have strict laws regarding CBD possession, while others are more lenient. Consider buying CBD locally to avoid legal complications.
• Product Selection: Opt for CBD products with low THC content (less than 0.3%), preferably derived from hemp. Full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate formulations cater to different preferences and legal requirements.
• Precautionary Measures: Take precautions like printing ingredient lists, checking lab reports, and ensuring compliance with local THC limits to avoid legal issues while traveling with CBD. Always prioritize safety and legality.

What is CBD?

The resinous cannabis flower contains cannabidiol (CBD), a naturally occurring chemical with a long history of use dating back thousands of years. Currently, scientists and medical experts from all over the world are researching and validating the advantages of CBD. CBD is a secure, non-addictive chemical that is one of over 100 “phytocannabinoids” that are unique to cannabis and give the plant its potent potential.

The molecule that gives cannabis its well-known high, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is closely related to another significant medicinally active phytocannabinoid, CBD. The majority of scientific study has concentrated on these two components of cannabis.

There are significant differences that can be seen between CBD and THC. However, CBD doesn’t cause the “stoned” or “buzzed” feeling like THC does. This is because the various receptors in the brain and body react differently to CBD and THC.

Depending on how much of each ingredient is ingested, CBD may actually diminish or even cancel out the psychoactive effects of THC. Many people seek cannabis’ advantages but not, or just somewhat, the high. Those who are hesitant to try cannabis for the first time may find CBD to be an appealing choice due to its potency, non-intoxicating nature, and ease of administration in the form of CBD oil.

Why Is CBD Popular With Travelers?

CBD is a widely used product, but travelers who want to keep their levels of comfortability in check frequently find it appealing. If you’re a nervous flyer, CBD is a great way to keep your cool. Additionally, CBD may be used by travelers experiencing jet lag after lengthy trips and may promote a chill and a quicker adjustment to a new time zone.

CBD is an excellent way to unwind your muscles if you’re a traveler who frequently flies or spends too many nights on uncomfortable hostel mattresses. 

Can You Fly With CBD Products?

It’s important to keep in mind that the legal status of CBD varies depending on where you’re going if you wish to travel with CBD products. Since 2018, CBD has been accepted by the federal government in the US. Because CBD products contain less than 0.3% THC, most states permit their possession. You should check the state to which you’re traveling, though, as several still uphold strict CBD regulations. Then, make sure that none of your CBD products include THC.

When traveling abroad, you must exercise considerable caution when choosing your destinations. CBD is still prohibited in various parts of Europe, including Monaco, Montenegro, and Iceland. In many Asian countries, including Cambodia and Vietnam, CBD is still illegal. Most countries in the Middle East and Africa have outlawed CBD products. CBD is nevertheless permitted in South Africa in some situations.

All the CBD products that you have in luggage must contain less than 0.3% THC when you fly to the US. Any liquids (tinctures, lotions, and oils) must be under 3 ounces due to standard TSA regulations. Are you an avid vaper? If so, you’ll be glad to know that a CBD vape pen is allowed through airport security but not in your checked luggage.

The best course of action is to do your research and  always check your destination before flying. Additionally, if you are transiting somewhere before arriving at your final destination, be sure to verify the regulations there. You should also be aware of whether the CBD and THC in your products are combined or not.

Traveling With CBD Gummies, CBD Oil, or Vapes

CBD is nevertheless permitted in South Africa in some situations. You’ll be happy to know that the TSA accepts carry-on and checked bags if you want to travel with CBD hemp oil, CBD concentrates, or CBD edibles. However, the CBD must come from hemp and have a minimum concentration of 0.3%. Vaping equipment cannot be brought on a flight in checked luggage. You must instead bring them in your carry-on bags because putting them in the cargo hold could pose a fire risk. Products like CBD flower and CBD pre rolls may be problematic because of their resemblance to regular marijuana.

You must pack CBD topicals, vape fluids, and vape oils in travel-sized containers if you intend to bring them on board (100ml.) These need to be prepared for airport security examinations. You should pack any liquids or oils larger than 100 mL in your checked bags.

What Might Happen At The Airport?

You might be wondering what will happen if I have CBD at the airport? The TSA claims that the primary goals of airport screening are passenger safety and security. They consequently rarely look for cannabis and marijuana-related products.

The TSA officer will have the last say if they discover cannabis products. As we’ve already mentioned, certain jurisdictions have distinct regulations for CBD, such as Virginia, which only permits prescription purchases of the substance. As a result, your airport experience may vary based on where you are going.

Which Countries Have Legalized CBD?

We’ve now established that North America has the most lenient CBD legislation and that much of the rest of the globe has a different perception of CBD products. Fans of CBD should not despair, though, as several countries have loose CBD regulations. These are a few of these countries:

Austria

Austria accepts CBD if the THC content is less than 0.2% which can be difficult to find, so always check COAs. However, if CBD is not promoted as a drug or dietary supplement, you can also buy it in Austria. As a result, you can leave your CBD products at home and buy some when you get to Vienna or the Austrian Alps.

Bulgaria

Due to its affordable cost of living, wonderful climate, and interesting history, Bulgaria is a well-liked destination for tourists and travellers in eastern Europe. Even better, Bulgaria made history by becoming the first country in the EU to permit the sale of CBD derived from hemp. Therefore, if the CBD has a THC content of no more than 0.2%, it can be brought into Bulgaria. The 0.2% ceiling would instead be increased to 0.3%, according to the Bulgarian government.

Canada

You won’t be surprised to learn that you can enter Canada with CBD products since the country is known for having liberal cannabis laws. Cannabis and hemp are acceptable for both medical and recreational use, according to the Cannabis Act. Even though you might wish to bring CBD with you on your trip to Canada, you can also buy top-quality CBD while you’re there. They offer some of the greatest CBD goods available anywhere.

France

Because CBD oil is permitted in France if it has a THC content of less than 0.2%, it’s one of the most popular travel locations in the world. Therefore, if the CBD content of your products is less than 0.2%, you can bring them to France. Alternatively, as Paris has several great CBD stores, you can just buy CBD products while you’re there.

Greece

If you want to visit Greece’s sunny beaches, you’ll be glad to know that CBD is now legal if it has no more than 0.2% THC. You don’t need to carry your CBD products with you because you can purchase them in Greece over the counter. Greece is currently debating a proposal to legalize cannabis Sativa-based medical cannabis products with a maximum THC content of 0.2%.

The Netherlands

Cannabis laws in the Netherlands are renowned for being lax. You won’t be shocked to learn that if the THC content of your CBD products is less than 0.2%, you are allowed to import them into the country. Having said that, Amsterdam offers some of the best CBD goods available anywhere. Why not purchase your CBD products there?

Portugal

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe is Portugal, which is changing its stance on marijuana. Portugal decriminalized cannabis for personal use in 2001 and legalized it for medical purposes in 2018. If the THC concentration of the CBD products is less than 0.2%, you can buy them domestically.

Romania

Travelers are increasingly choosing Romania as a destination in eastern Europe. Despite Romania’s Supreme Court decriminalizing cannabis, the country nonetheless forbids its recreational use. Once you’re in the nation, you can buy CBD items like soap, oils, and lotions if they contain no THC. If your CBD has no THC, you can also enter the country. However, as they are prohibited, you cannot bring CBD foods or flowers.

Slovenia

Slovenia is one of the most picturesque holiday destinations in Europe, yet it is not well-known. Slovenian law, however, states that CBD products containing less than 0.2% THC are acceptable. So long as your CBD products have a THC content of less than 0.2%, you can bring them into Slovenia. Once within the nation, you can buy CBD products as well.

Spain

Spain has some of the most lenient marijuana laws in all of Europe. As long as the THC content is less than 0.2%, the nation allows citizens to purchase CBD oil. As a result, if your CBD products contain less than 0.2% THC, you can also bring them to Spain.

The United Kingdom

For travelers from North America, London is one of the most well-liked travel destinations. The UK still maintains severe cannabis regulations, though. Having said that, as long as CBD products don’t contain more THC than is permitted (which is 0.2%), they can be purchased legally in the UK. London is home to numerous top-notch CBD stores.

3 Tips For Traveling with CBD Products

1. Print The Ingredient List

A great method to prevent issues is to print an ingredient list before you go. The list of ingredients should show independent analysis findings demonstrating that the product contains no more than 0.3% THC, or 0.2% THC for several EU countries.

2. Study The Nation or State You Are Visiting

Some governments may imprison visitors for possessing CBD products, and some nations have stronger rules governing CBD goods. Do your research on the location as a result. Thankfully, the EU has straightforward and definite laws governing CBD products, but in several other nations, the situation is murkier. Leave your CBD at home if you’re ever unsure.

3. Purchase CBD Where You’re Going

You can find really innovative CBD goods, including CBD gummies and CBD vape pens, in many of the places we highlighted above that aren’t available in North America. It’s a great opportunity to extend your horizons and explore new things. You might come across something you adore and choose to send a lot of it back to America.

Is CBD Legal?

You must first comprehend the distinction between hemp and marijuana, both of which are products of the cannabis sativa plant. Both of them create CBD. THC content in hemp is essentially nonexistent; however, marijuana is a different matter. Due to its high THC content, marijuana is illegal on a federal level in the US, despite the fact that more and more states are decriminalizing it.

The resurgence of the American hemp industry, which had been dormant for decades due to drug war politics, has also been sparked by CBD. The 2018 Farm Bill contains a clause that legalizes the production of hemp (cannabis with no more than 0.3% THC), largely due to the acceptance of and economic power of CBD.

Therefore, if the CBD is derived from hemp, it is permitted by federal law. Additionally, the CBD must have a THC content of less than .3%. CBD made from hemp may be freely moved across states as long as it satisfies the requirements established by the statute.

Having said that, not all states view CBD as legal, despite the fact that it is legal at the federal level. For instance, as of 2022, it will be completely outlawed in South Dakota, Nebraska, and Idaho (only lawful with 0 THC and from mature stalks of plants). The only states that allow its medical use are Alabama (must contain less than.3% THC), Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, South Carolina, Tennessee (must contain less than.6% THC), Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

In the US, hemp cultivation is becoming a recognized agricultural industry. The DEA and FDA, however, are against the method of extracting CBD-rich oil from hemp biomass and marketing CBD oil concentrate and isolates for ingestion and inhalation because it steps on the toes of Big Pharma.

Choosing The Right CBD For Traveling

Which CBD is the best for you to use while traveling?

Grab the full spectrum CBD if a small pleasant feeling is what you’re after. The THC content is still often less than.3%, but it’s made up of a lot of other cannabinoids and very little THC. Although it won’t make someone feel “high,” it can have a pleasant effect. It may smell like the cannabis plant since it includes terpenes from that plant. If you must submit to drug tests, avoid using any full-spectrum CBD because it may come up positive for THC.

Broad-spectrum CBD is absent of THC, but it still has all of the great properties that people want. Similar to full-spectrum, it has various cannabinoid chemicals but no or very little THC. Therefore, this is the CBD to select if THC use is prohibited where you live.

Tinctures/oils are the best options for uneasiness because they reach your bloodstream the quickest and provide an almost immediate effect. You will need to take it every four to six hours because its delivery technique wears off the fastest of all of them.

Given that CBD is easily absorbed and dispersed throughout the body, CBD gummies are convenient for dosage and have effects that last the entire time you use them. It can take the gummies 45 minutes to two hours to start working, so schedule them for when you want them to. Typically, one meal lasts for up to 12 hours.

CBD topicals are another excellent option for travel, as they are easy to carry; you can just place them with your other toiletries.

It’s definitely best to leave your vape at home or save it until you get to your destination (if it’s legal where you’re going, as vaping is not permitted on airplanes).

No matter the CBD delivery method you select, always check the label to make sure the THC content is less than.3% before going to places where it is permitted to use it.

What To Look For When Buying CBD For Travel

Check the legislation of the state or nation you will visit first. If you are going to more than one place, check each place separately. After becoming aware of the restrictions, you can begin shopping.

The following are the most crucial things to take into account when purchasing CBD for travel:

• THC Level: Be aware of any restrictions and make sure you buy products that adhere to them. In some countries, the THC content must be less than 0.6%.
• CBD Source: The CBD should nearly always come from hemp. Check that the product is made from hemp rather than marijuana since if it is, you could find yourself in legal trouble.
• Lab Reports: The majority of reliable and well-known companies make lab reports accessible to everyone on their websites. Avoid the sample if there is no lab report. You may need to show regulators that the product is a hemp product and has less THC than the legal limit, so the lab tests must not merely show you that the product contains what the manufacturer says it does.

It is also necessary to consider whether the product is full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or CBD isolate. All of the beneficial compounds, such as terpenes and cannabinoids, that are present in the hemp plant are included in full-spectrum formulations. This indicates that while THC is present, it must be less than the 0.3% legal limit.

Full-spectrum products are nevertheless prohibited in several states. In that circumstance, you could pick a broad-spectrum product. The THC has been removed from broad-spectrum marijuana, but it still contains all of the terpenes and cannabinoids that it normally would.

But CBD isolation is the best option if you want to be extra safe. These are CBD-only products at their purest. Other cannabinoids or chemicals are completely absent.

Thank you for taking the time to read through this article, and hopefully all the information we have provided is useful for your future travels with CBD.