Travelling with CBD: What should you know before boarding a plane

17. 11. 2023

If you are planning to travel with CBD products, there are several important factors to consider. From legalities to problems associated with security checks at airports. In this article, we'll give you advice on how to travel with CBD. Why take CBD on your travels? Can it help with jet lag? Is CBD subject to airport checks? And which countries do you prefer not to take CBD to? Whether you're a regular CBD user or just take this dietary supplement with you as part of your travel first aid kit, this article will make traveling with CBD completely stress-free for you.

What is CBD and what products can we find it in?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the many active ingredients found in cannabis. Unlike THC, another cannabis compound with psychoactive effects, CBD is not intoxicating. Many people reach for CBD primarily because of its potentially beneficial effects on sleep, anxiety, pain, and other health conditions.

There are a number of products containing CBD, including:

CBD oils and tinctures: these are concentrated CBD extracts mixed with carrier oils. They can be consumed by dripping them under the tongue or adding them to food or drinks.

CBD capsules: precisely dosed CBD in capsules allows for convenient use.

CBD creams and ointments: topical application to the skin, often used to relieve pain and inflammation.

CBD gummies and chewing gum: a variety of CBD-containing snacks for convenient dosing.

CBD drinks: beverages such as teas, lemonades or waters fortified with CBD.

CBD crystals: a pure form of CBD that can be added to food or drinks

Why should you take CBD on the plane?

Carrying CBD products on a plane can be beneficial for some passengers for several reasons:

Not going off the grid: if you regularly use CBD products as part of your daily regimen, you'll want to make sure you're feeling optimally comfortable while traveling.

Stress relief: traveling can be a stressful affair, and CBD is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety.

Time shift management: long flights across different time zones can cause jet lag, or jet lag sickness. CBD can make it easier to adjust to a new time zone.

Pain and discomfort: long journeys can cause back pain or muscle tension. CBD creams and balms can ease these discomforts.

Lack of quality sleep: CBD can have a positive effect on sleep quality, which is especially helpful when traveling across time zones.

Alternative to medication: some people prefer natural alternatives to medication. Thus, CBD can be an appealing option for them.

Transporting CBD by plane

Transporting CBD products by plane is subject to certain rules and restrictions to ensure your safety and compliance with applicable laws. The points below will provide you with useful information:

Legality: before you travel, find out what the CBD legislation is in the country you are leaving from and also in your destination. What may be legal in one country may not be allowed in another.

THC content: check the THC content of CBD products. In some countries, only products with a minimum THC content may be tolerated.

Allowed amount: the amount of CBD you can take on board may be limited. Dietary supplements usually contain concentrations that should not cause problems, but it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the relevant limits beforehand.

Packaging and labelling: CBD products should be in their original packaging and clearly labelled to make it clear that it is a legal and authorised product.

Transportation in liquid form: if you have CBD in liquid form (oil, tincture), follow the rules for transporting liquids that apply on the plane.

Consultation with airlines: due to the different rules, it is advisable to check in advance with the airline you will be using to find out their position on transporting CBD.

Are there special checks for CBD at airports?

CBD is not usually subject to special checks at most airports. CBD products are usually included in the normal security screening that all passenger belongings go through. Airport security personnel usually focus on ensuring security and compliance with regulations regarding prohibited substances and items.

However, it is important to note that when it comes to international travel with CBD products, the rules may vary from destination to destination. Some countries have strict laws regarding cannabis and its products, including CBD. Therefore, it is important to find out the legal status of CBD in your destination and prepare for any border checks.

In some cases, security officials may not be familiar with CBD and may ask you to explain its composition or purpose. It is therefore a good idea to carry relevant documentation, such as a prescription and information about the legality of these products in your country.

Countries to avoid when travelling with CBD

There are a few countries where you should be very careful or avoid when travelling with CBD, as the legal standards and attitudes towards cannabis and its products can be very strict. Countries where you should not travel with CBD oil or where you should be very careful include:

Countries with strict laws regarding cannabis: some countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, have very strict laws regarding cannabis and its products. In these countries, even a small amount of CBD oil can be considered a serious offence.

Countries with ambiguous attitudes towards CBD: some countries, such as Japan, have ambiguous attitudes towards CBD and its legality may be questionable. However, the risk of possible seizure may be higher in these countries.

Countries with zero tolerance to THC: Countries with zero tolerance to THC may take CBD oil containing even minimal amounts of THC very seriously. These include, for example, some countries in the Middle East.

Before travelling to any non-European country, it is advisable to carefully check the legal status of CBD and cannabis in that country. If you have any doubts about travelling with CBD, contact the country's embassy or authorities for up-to-date and reliable information.

Tips for travelling by air with CBD

Flying with CBD-containing products can be easier if you follow a few tips and recommendations. Below are a few of them:

Be aware of the laws: before you travel, check the legal status of CBD in your country and destination. Find out if CBD is legal and what restrictions apply to its transport.

Consult airport staff: if you are in doubt about travelling with CBD, contact airport staff or customs to find out about current rules and procedures.

Original packaging and labelling: keep CBD products in their original packaging where possible. Labeling and directions for use can help clarify the nature of the product.

Supporting documents: if possible, carry relevant documents such as medical certificates, certificates of legality of the products, etc.

Limited quantities: observe the quantities you can carry. Remember that some countries have strict rules on the import of cannabis products.

Consider alternatives: in some cases it may be easier to buy CBD products locally if it is legal than to transport them by plane.

A few words in conclusion

Before boarding a plane with CBD products, it is important to prepare thoroughly. Make sure you are clear about the legislation in your home and destination country. Keep the products in their original labelled packaging and carry any necessary documentation. Familiarise yourself with the rules of the airport and airline you will be using. Ensure that the THC content is within legal limits. Being thoroughly prepared will allow you to travel with CBD with minimal risks and complications.

If you want to take advantage of the benefits of CBD on the go, visit our online store and explore our wide range of CBD products. Order today and travel safe and sound!