The legalization of marijuana in the United States is still a new and evolving topic. It can be difficult to know exactly what you are allowed to do when traveling with weed.
Where are you traveling to, where are you coming from, and how will you travel?
Regardless of your destination or mode of transportation, make sure to take precautions when transporting weed. It is important to keep your nugs in a secure spot while on the road.
There are many methods for storing weed that vary depending on what type of container it's in - but one product stands out among the rest. Octave's Travel-safe BATTPAK is an airtight sealable container that can be used for any cannabis storage needs.
Continue reading to learn about the laws of traveling with weed, as well as tips for keeping your nugs safe once you’re ready to hit the road (or runway.)
What are the Laws for Traveling with Weed?
The laws for traveling with weed vary from state to state. In some states, it is completely legal to travel with marijuana, while in other states it is only legal if you have a medical card.
And still, in other states, it is illegal to travel with any amount of marijuana whatsoever.
It is important to know the weed laws in your specific area.
Are you crossing state lines? That will be a little more complicated.
If you are traveling from one legal state to another legal state, you might be fine. However, under federal law, marijuana is still a schedule 1 drug, and transporting it across state lines is technically illegal.
If you are traveling to a non-legal state, it is extremely risky to bring marijuana with you. You could be charged with a felony, and you could face serious jail time. It is not worth the risk.
Can You Fly with Weed?
This is another question that has a complicated answer. The TSA does not specifically search for marijuana, but if they find it during their security screening, they will confiscate it.
In some airports, TSA agents are directed to refer their confiscations to local law enforcement, so caution should still be exercised.
If you are flying to another country, extra security screening will likely cause your marijuana to be confiscated.
What If You Get Caught?
If you are caught transporting marijuana illegally, you will likely be arrested and charged with a crime.
The penalties for marijuana possession vary from state to state, but they are usually quite severe. You could face jail time, a fine, or both.
What if You Have a Medical Marijuana Card?
If you have a medical marijuana card, it is legal for you to travel with weed in most areas.
For flying, according to TSA.gov, “TSA officers are required to report any suspected violations of law to local, state or federal authorities.”
However, if you are traveling to an illegal state, sometimes local law enforcement will intervene, and TSA/airport security will cooperate with police to confiscate marijuana that is being “smuggled,” even if it is medically prescribed marijuana.
If you are traveling to another country, your medical card may not help you if customs discovers your weed.
Keep Your Weed from Being Detected
There are a few things that you can do to protect your weed while traveling (to legal states.)
First of all, make sure that the smell is contained. You can do this by using a smell-proof container or bag.
You may also want to invest in a product like the Travel-safe BATTPAK by Octave.
The BATTPAK is also great for keeping your herb fresh and odorless.
The airtight seal prevents any smell from escaping, and the water-resistant design protects your buds from any potential damage.
Whether you're on a road trip or flying across the country, the Battpak is the best way to ensure your weed makes it to its final destination.
Tips for Traveling with Weed
Once you are familiar with the laws of the lands you are traveling to and from, stick to what is legal and follow these tips:
- Carry as little cannabis as possible. Authorities are more likely to question you if you have a lot of product on hand.
- Be discreet when carrying your products. Don't openly display them or smoke in public.
- If authorities question you, be polite and cooperative. Remember that you are not breaking any laws and have nothing to hide.
- Know the specific laws of the area you are traveling in.
- In general, it is advisable to keep your cannabis products in their original packaging if possible.
Tips for Driving with Weed
In general, it is better not to transport weed in a car. In many states, transporting weed can lead to serious consequences as well as impaired driving charges.
However, there are a few states where it is legal to transport marijuana in your car. If you are traveling in one of these states, make sure to keep your weed in a place that is not visible from outside the vehicle.
Additionally, follow your local laws for marijuana possession limits.
Tips for Flying with Weed
Without a medical card: If you do not have a medical card, it is advised not to transport weed when flying, but if you are traveling between two legal states, you may not have a problem.
If you are flying to a prohibition state, you could end up with your weed being confiscated or, even worse, getting arrested.
With a medical card: Even if you have a medical card, TSA is still required to report any suspected violations of federal law, and because cannabis is still illegal federally, they can get you in trouble. However, the reality is that it is mostly up to the TSA agent’s discretion.
If you are flying to a prohibition state, it is a little more tricky. You may not have a problem with TSA, but it still can be risky once you get to your destination with local law enforcement.
Critical Takeaways for Weed Travel
Following these tips will help ensure a safe and trouble-free travel experience when carrying weed products with you.
The bottom line is that you need to know the law in your specific area before traveling with weed. It is important to be aware of the risks and to take all the necessary precautions.
Laws vary from country to country and states within countries, so it is important that before any weed-related travel plans commence, you do your research on each destination's laws regarding possession of cannabis for personal use.
You may find yourself with an unpleasant surprise or worse if you don't know the rules.
Regardless of where you’re headed, you should keep your nugs safe and secure. Octave has you covered in ways you haven’t even thought of yet with the BATTPAK, helping you to travel with your nugs safer.