As the cannabis landscape evolves across the U.S. and the world, traveling with cannabis is becoming more complex. Whether you’re visiting a state where cannabis is legal or planning a trip abroad, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t allowed when it comes to cannabis in 2025.
At Orange County Cannabis Co. in Middletown, NY, we want you to be informed before you hit the road or board a flight when it comes to cannabis and travel in 2025. This guide breaks down what you need to know about traveling with cannabis, including the legal restrictions, tips for travel, and the current rules on both domestic and international flights.
Traveling Domestically with Cannabis
The first thing to remember is that cannabis laws still vary from state to state, even though it’s legal in some form in many places. Understanding your destination’s laws and regulations is key to staying compliant and avoiding legal issues. Here’s what to keep in mind:
What’s Legal in the U.S. for Cannabis and Travel 2025?
As of 2025, over 30 states have legalized recreational cannabis in some form. In states like California, Colorado, and New York, it’s legal to possess and use cannabis for personal use. However, the rules around how much you can carry and where you can use it vary, so be sure to check the specific laws for your destination.
- Possession Limits: You can carry up to 3 ounces of cannabis in states like California. But some states, like Texas, still have strict laws and may not allow any recreational cannabis possession.
- Consumption Rules: Even if a state has legalized cannabis, consumption may be restricted to private property. Public use is illegal in most states, and that includes using cannabis at parks, beaches, or on public transportation.
Traveling by Air Within the U.S.
While many states have legalized cannabis, the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) follows federal law. Cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, and that includes airports.
Important tips:
- Flying between states: Even if you’re traveling from one legal state to another, taking cannabis through airport security is still prohibited.
- Carry on baggage: It’s illegal to bring cannabis in your carry-on or checked luggage on domestic flights.
- State laws vary: Ensure that the state you’re flying into allows for possession if you’re bringing cannabis with you.
International Cannabis Travel: What’s Allowed?
Cannabis laws around the world are still in flux, and international travel with cannabis remains a gray area. The legal landscape varies greatly, so it’s crucial to understand the laws of the countries you’re visiting before attempting to bring cannabis across borders.
Countries with Legal Cannabis
Some countries have fully embraced cannabis legalization and allow visitors to consume while traveling. For instance, countries like Canada and Uruguay have fully legalized recreational cannabis, and tourists can freely purchase and consume cannabis. However, traveling to these countries with cannabis from another nation is still illegal.
- Canada: If you’re flying from the U.S. to Canada, cannabis is legal there, but the U.S. border is strict about cannabis possession. Don’t attempt to bring cannabis over the border, even if you’re traveling to a legal state or country.
- Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands: While cannabis laws are more relaxed in places like Amsterdam, it’s still illegal to import cannabis. Countries in Europe have varying degrees of decriminalization, but buying and consuming cannabis is strictly regulated.
International Border Crossings and Cannabis
Traveling across international borders with cannabis is illegal. Even in countries where cannabis is legal, you risk facing heavy fines, imprisonment, or a permanent ban from the country if you’re caught with cannabis.
Most countries, including the United States, have strict customs regulations about cannabis. For example, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection still enforces federal drug laws, meaning you cannot enter the country with any amount of cannabis, regardless of state laws.
International Travel Tips
- Know the law before you go: Always research the cannabis laws of the country you’re visiting.
- Don’t travel with cannabis: If you’re traveling internationally, don’t attempt to carry cannabis with you, even if it’s legal in the country you’re flying from or to.
- Use licensed dispensaries: In countries where cannabis is legal, always purchase from licensed dispensaries and follow local guidelines on consumption.
How to Stay Safe When Traveling with Cannabis
- Educate yourself: Familiarize yourself with the laws in both your departure and destination locations before you travel.
- Don’t travel with cannabis unless you’re within a state that allows for it — even then, be cautious.
- Leave your cannabis at home if you’re traveling internationally. Many countries, even those with relaxed cannabis laws, will impose harsh penalties for carrying cannabis across borders.
For travelers who enjoy cannabis, the key is to stay informed and respect local laws. When in doubt, leave your cannabis at home, especially if you’re crossing borders.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the legalities of cannabis and travel 2025 is essential to ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience when flying or visiting new destinations. With rapidly changing laws, it’s more important than ever to stay updated about the latest regulations.
At Orange County Cannabis Co., we encourage all of our customers in Middletown, NY, and beyond to stay informed about the laws surrounding cannabis use and travel. If you’re planning a trip, check the legal guidelines before you pack, and always travel responsibly.
Explore our cannabis products today at Orange County Cannabis Co. for your next adventure. Whether you’re heading to a state with legal cannabis or simply relaxing at home, we have the products to keep you comfortable and elevated.
