Traveling with CBD: What You Need to Know

Planning a trip and want to bring your CBD along? Whether you're flying domestic or venturing abroad, it's important to understand how different rules and regulations may impact your plans. Here's your go-to guide for traveling safely and legally with CBD products.

✈️ Traveling Within the US - United States

The TSA allows travelers to bring hemp-derived CBD products in carry-ons or checked luggage as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. To be safe, bring a copy of the product's Certificate of Analysis (COA) and keep products in original packaging with clear labeling.

Pro Tips:

• Use a travel-size container and avoid excess bulk.
• Stick to topical or oil-based products (e.g., roll-ons or salves) to avoid questions about edibles or vape pens.
• Keep a printed COA with you or accessible via phone.

🌏 Traveling Internationally with CBD

This is where things get tricky. Every country has its own regulations on CBD, and some treat it as a controlled substance. Below are some general insights by region, but always check with the destination country’s customs authority before traveling.

CA Canada

Do not bring CBD into Canada. Even if you have a prescription, Canadian customs may confiscate your product and impose penalties. Only CBD purchased through licensed Canadian sellers is allowed, and if you are making a trip to the US carrying any such products, be sure to take with you a receipt or other proof of purchase. 

🇪🇺 European Union

In general, the EU allows CBD with less than 0.2% THC. However, this varies by country. For example:

• Germany: CBD is legal and widely available.
• Sweden & Norway: Strict rules. Even trace THC may lead to seizure.
• UK: Now independent from EU. Allows CBD under 0.2% THC if properly labeled and not advertised with medical claims.

🇦🇺 Australia

CBD is regulated as a prescription medicine. Do not bring any CBD products unless you have proper medical documentation from an Australian physician.

Asia

Most Asian countries have strict prohibitions on CBD. Penalties can be severe. Japan allows isolated CBD with zero THC. India, China, and others are unclear or highly restrictive. Avoid traveling with CBD in this region.

🔍 A Word on Other Countries

CBD laws vary widely across the globe — especially throughout Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and South America. In some countries, CBD may be treated like a controlled substance, while in others, it occupies a legal gray area or may be permitted under strict medical guidelines.

Travelers are strongly advised to check the most current laws and customs regulations for their destination — as well as any transit countries — before attempting to bring CBD products abroad. This includes reviewing the local rules on:

• THC content thresholds (e.g., 0.2% or 0.0%)
• Approved sources of CBD (hemp vs. cannabis)
• Documentation requirements (e.g., lab reports, receipts, prescriptions)
• Import restrictions or bans

When in doubt, leave it out. While CBD may be legal or tolerated at home, possession in another country can lead to delays, fines, or legal consequences. Better to be safe than sorry.