If you're a vaper, you might be wondering whether or not you can bring your trusty vape pen with you when flying. After all, vaping can be a great way to unwind and relax, especially on long flights. However, flying with THC cartridges can be risky, and laws could be confusing. Local and federal laws vary widely, and ignorance of these laws can lead to serious consequences. As witnessed by Brittany Garner in Russia, it is always important to stay informed and act according to each country's laws. So, if you're thinking of flying with a THC vape pane, here are some things you should consider.
What Are THC Vape Pens and Cartridges?
THC vape pens are small, discreet devices that vaporize THC oil. THC cartridges are pre-filled containers that contain THC oil, which is the active component of marijuana. The cartridges are inserted into the pen. The oil gets heated by a battery, releasing a vapor that can be inhaled.
Some people might want to travel with THC vape pens and cartridges for a variety of reasons. For one, it's become a popular way to enjoy a buzz conveniently in a variety of settings.
For frequent or medical marijuana users, having a vape pen handy can help them with physical comfort or support with occasional stress. Others may like to vape as a hobby or social activity and want to have their vape pen on hand while on vacation or business trips.
However, it's important to keep in mind that while THC vape pens may have a place in popular culture and in many people's lives, they are still illegal in many places and could pose serious risks to travelers.
Is Flying with a THC Vape Pen Legal?
When it comes to flying with vape pens, it's important to remember that airport security is rather strict. During the screening process, the TSA is looking for explosives and weapons and is not purposely screening for marijuana. However, their technology can find even the smallest of objects, and if marijuana is detected during screening, it can be subject to search, seizure, and penalties.
This means it's risky to try and sneak any kind of illegal drug, including THC vape cartridges, through airport security. In general, airports have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drugs, which means you could be facing serious consequences if you're caught traveling with illegal substances.
While some airports may be more lenient than others, it's never a sure thing. In fact, some areas may be more strict when it comes to flying with THC cartridges.
Even if you have a medical marijuana card or live in a state where recreational use is legal, it's important to keep in mind that federal law still considers THC to be a Schedule I drug, which puts it in the same category as heroin and cocaine. This means that traveling with THC cartridges is against federal law, and getting caught could lead to fines, arrest, and even imprisonment.
Flying with THC Vape Pens to or from States where Marijuana Is Illegal
When traveling, you must consider two destinations: where you are flying from and where you are flying to. If you are a person who has a medical marijuana license, you should always carry your card with you in case you are searched anywhere along your route.
That said, products containing more than 0.03% THC are prohibited on carry-on or checked bags, according to the TSA. Flying takes people (and their luggage) across state lines, which could potentially break laws.
Therefore, if you are flying to or from a state with medical or recreational marijuana, it is still illegal to fly with THC vape pens.
What Are the Penalties for Flying with THC Vape Pens?
The penalties for flying with THC vape pens can be severe. Federal law considers THC to be a Schedule I drug, which puts it in the same category as heroin and cocaine. This means you could face significant legal penalties if you're caught traveling with THC cartridges.
Fines can range from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars, and you could face imprisonment for several years. In addition to these legal consequences, flying with THC cartridges could also lead to the confiscation of your device and oil, which can be a costly loss. For these reasons, it's important to think carefully before attempting to fly with your THC vape pen and cartridges.
What Are Alternatives to Flying with THC Cartridges and Pens?
If you prefer to avoid the risks of flying with THC vape pens, there are alternative options that you may consider. In the event you are traveling to a destination where recreational marijuana is legal, consider buying your THC vape pens there.
If you are a medical marijuana patient, bring your card. Some recreational dispensaries will provide medical patient discounts and may honor out-of-state cards.
If you are a medical marijuana patient and go to a medical marijuana dispensary in a destination state, many medical marijuana states have reciprocity agreements or recognize out-of-state medical marijuana cards.
However, the specific rules and regulations regarding reciprocity vary from state to state. Some states require visitors to register with the state's medical marijuana program before being able to purchase marijuana products, while others allow visitors to use their out-of-state card. It's always best practice to research the specific laws of the state you'll be traveling to and to contact their medical marijuana program for more information on their reciprocity policies.
Can I Bring THC Tincture on a Plane?
No, THC tinctures are currently not legal on flights, even if you are traveling to or from a state where marijuana is legal. This is because the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has categorized marijuana, including THC tinctures, as a Schedule I drug, which is considered illegal under federal law.
Therefore, even if you have a valid medical marijuana card or prescription, it is against federal law to transport marijuana or any marijuana products on commercial flights. It is important to note that airports and airlines are subject to federal law and regulations, and TSA agents are required to report any suspected violations to local law enforcement.
You may travel with full spectrum CBD gummies, vape pens, and tinctures. However, they must contain 0.3% THC or less per dry weight.
Traveling with THC
Despite marijuana being legalized in some states, it's still considered illegal at the federal level, which governs air travel. The TSA's position is to report any sign of drugs, including marijuana, to local law enforcement.
It's important to remember that airports and airlines are subject to federal regulations, and any marijuana or marijuana-related products are prohibited from being transported on commercial flights. Therefore, it's strongly recommended that travelers avoid bringing any THC vape pens onto a plane to avoid potential legal consequences.
Gerrid Smith is a seasoned entrepreneur with 15 years of digital marketing experience, featured in notable publications like Forbes and Entrepreneur. In 2018, Smith turned his passion for health, wellness, and cannabis into a business, co-founding Joy Organics, an internationally-recognized CBD brand. It saw remarkable success with $15.9 million in revenue in its first year and the establishment of a thriving partnership program. A few years later, he co-founded budder, a THC-focused sister company, to meet the growing demand for more buzz-worthy products.