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May 9, 2023

Can You Take CBD Oil on a Plane?

Estimated Read Time: 7 min

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By Valerie Orta on May 9, 2023

With more people turning to CBD oil, it's becoming a popular travel companion. But can you take your CBD oil with you as you fly? Here's what to know.

CBD oil has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people touting its life-changing benefits for their health and well-being. But what about taking CBD oil on a plane?

This is a valid concern for those who rely on CBD to promote everyday wellness and are planning to travel soon. Here are some key highlights of what to know:

  • Yes, technically, you can fly domestically with hemp-derived CBD oil. Hemp products like CBD oil are federally legal in the United States.
  • Unfortunately, the rules around traveling with CBD oil are still a bit hazy, and inconsistent regulations from various agencies can make the situation even more complicated.
  • Plus, let's face it - most of the staff working for these agencies don't know much about CBD, which doesn't inspire confidence.

But fear not, intrepid traveler! We've got you covered. We will explore whether you can take CBD oil on a plane and what you need to know before you pack your bags.

What Is CBD Oil?

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. CBD oil is a liquid extract that contains CBD derived from the hemp plant and belongs to a class of compounds called cannabinoids.

Cannabinoids like CBD have become increasingly popular due to their potential wellness and therapeutic benefits. Anecdotal reports suggest that many people rely on CBD to improve their lives.

CBD oil, sometimes referred to as a CBD tincture, is one of the most used CBD products because it's easy to use and has a high concentration of CBD.

CBD naturally supports balance and wellness by positively influencing a major regulatory network in the body called your endocannabinoid system. This regulatory network keeps functions like mood, memory, appetite, sleep, and much more, in homeostasis. So if you're about to take a flight and rely on the benefits of CBD, it's not surprising that you're wondering if you can bring your trusty CBD oil.

When considering whether you can take CBD oil, there are three factors to consider:

  • TSA guidelines
  • State and destination laws
  • The airline company and airport rules

Don't worry; we've got your back. In the following sections, we'll look at these factors to help you determine whether you can take CBD oil on a plane and what you need to know before you fly.

TSA Guidelines on Flying with CBD Oil

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is the ultimate authority when it comes to what you can and can't bring on a plane. But here's the good news: the agency is up-to-date on CBD laws, which could work in your favor.

That being said, it's still important to familiarize yourself with the guidelines to ensure you know whether you can bring your beloved CBD oil on the plane and, if so, what the requirements are.

The Purpose of the TSA

The TSA's primary goal is to keep the country's transportation systems secure while allowing people and goods to move freely. They focus on dangerous threats like explosives, not enforcing laws or penal codes.

In short, your CBD oil isn't their concern.

However, while TSA agents won't actively search for CBD oil in your luggage, it still can be a concern for some travelers.

According to the TSA, you can travel with CBD oil and other CBD products. But there are guidelines you should be aware of:

  • The TSA's guidelines for traveling with CBD oil are that it must contain less than 0.3% of THC and be placed in a 1-liter clear bag with other liquids.
  • The TSA might stop you if they find CBD oil in your luggage. But a short explanation might be all you need to clear up the confusion. If the CBD oil has been third-party tested, carrying and presenting a copy of its Certificate of Analysis (CoA) could go a long way.

The Legal Status of CBD Oil

If you're curious about the legalities of CBD oil and other CBD products, listen up! The 2018 Farm Bill is where the legal status of hemp-derived CBD lies. According to this bill, CBD products made from hemp are permitted at the federal level if they contain less than 0.3% THC.

But hold up; there's a catch! These laws only apply to hemp-derived CBD, not CBD from marijuana plants. Marijuana-derived CBD has more than 0.3% THC and is classified as a federally restricted Schedule I substance by the DEA. So, make sure you know where your CBD comes from before you take it on a plane!

State Laws

The 2018 Farm Bill addresses the federal issue. But what about the state laws?

State laws regarding CBD can differ from federal laws, so understanding them is essential before traveling with CBD oil. In short, the legality of CBD varies from state to state. For example, some states may not permit CBD in edible forms, such as CBD gummies or drinks.

You can probably bring CBD oil if your destination state has fully legalized hemp-derived CBD products.

However, it's important to remember that state laws regarding CBD are continuously changing, so stay updated on the regulations and ensure that you're compliant with the current rules before traveling.

Airline and Airport Rules

In addition to the federal and state regulations, it's crucial to be aware of airport rules when carrying CBD oil. Certain airports have restrictions that ban marijuana within their premises. However, most airport guidelines do not mention prohibiting hemp CBD products.

You should also look into your specific airline's policies on carrying CBD oil aboard their planes. While some airlines are more accepting of CBD, none explicitly forbid travelers from bringing CBD oil on board.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, research and understand airport and airline rules and regulations regarding CBD oil.

Precautions When Flying with CBD Oil

If you want to bring CBD oil on a plane, you will need to go through airport security, and it's important to keep in mind that not all staff members may be familiar with it. However, you can take some precautions to help you and the TSA agents verify your CBD oil quickly and efficiently.

Ensure your CBD oil is under the THC limit

Before jumping at the chance to travel with CBD oil, ensure it is under the federal THC limit. This starts by buying CBD oil from a reputable brand that ensures their hemp-derived products are legal and follow national guidelines.

Bring supporting documentation

The TSA will not test your CBD oil, but you can make their job easier and your experience smoother by providing them with the proper documents to show the composition of your CBD oil.

One of the ways you can do this is by ensuring that you keep the CBD oil in its original packaging and ensuring it is sealed. You can also download the CoA for the product from the CBD brand's website. These will show the TSA agents that your products are within the legal limits.

Pack your CBD oil with your other liquids

When you bring CBD oil on a plane, the TSA considers it a liquid. Therefore, it should be packed with your other liquids. Every passenger can carry one clear, quart-sized bag of liquids, including aerosols, creams, pastes, and gels. However, each travel-sized container inside the bag must be at most 3.4oz. It is recommended that you pack your CBD oil in this bag.

The bag will be inspected and separated from your carry-on bag at the security checkpoint. While CBD oil may receive additional scrutiny, the advantage is that you can access and consume it during travel. It is important to note that you should always follow the guidelines set forth by the TSA and your airline to avoid any potential issues during your travels.

Do not attempt to hide your CBD oil

Although TSA states that CBD oil can be carried in checked or carry-on luggage on domestic flights, most travelers might feel more comfortable taking them in the carry-on. If, for any reason, you have to store your CBD oil in the checked luggage, be sure to keep it with your toiletries or other checked liquids. Packing your CBD elsewhere may lead the TSA inspector to wrongfully assume that you're trying to hide something, which could result in confiscating your product.

You should also keep all CBD oils and other products in original packaging. Emptying or removing them from the packaging could also trigger the same problem.

Traveling with CBD oil overseas

International hemp and cannabis laws vary drastically depending on the country. In some countries, no laws distinguish CBD from THC or hemp from marijuana, and all are treated as the same product. In the worst-case scenario, you could be arrested and detained for possessing illegal products in some countries.

You should check the laws and policies of your destination country and any other countries you will pass through. Although CBD oil might be legal in some countries, we recommend buying the products there once you arrive. They might have different guidelines, leading to legal challenges at the airport and confiscation.

Ready for Your Trip?

The TSA allows travel with CBD oil on a plane as long as it follows federal and state laws. Packing CBD oil with other liquids in a clear, quart-sized bag can help expedite security. If you want to explore high-quality CBD oil products, check out Koi's online shop. Safe travels!

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