Travelling can indeed be a bit challenging as there are quite a number of rules and regulations that one has to adhere to. Taking these foods to other countries or on an airplane could cause trouble because the customs laws in various countries do not allow the importation of certain foods. Just as any road trip has restrictions regarding what is appropriate and what isn’t, we’ll help you demystify today.
Here in this blog, we’ll give all the information you need to know about flying with edibles so that the next time you’re planning to fly, you don’t have to worry. So, welcome to the sphere of air travel and edibles.
Understanding the Baggage Policy
However, individual airline companies usually have a different baggage policy so it would be better if you would read and understand their rules. Every flight has to do with some rules that follow the feature determining what one can or cannot carry when traveling.
Overview of Airline Baggage Policies
Some of the Information included in baggage policies include; maximum weight allowed, size allowed, items forbidden and charges for checked baggage and cabin baggage. One of the best things about deciding where to put your items in the airplane is knowing where to fit them – in the carry-on luggage or the checked baggage.
Differentiating between Carry-On and Checked Baggage
Here are the main differences between these two types of luggage:
- Carry-On Baggage: Generally, there are limitations in terms of the size and the number of items one can carry in the cabin.
- Checked Baggage: Usually allows for larger items and is suitable for goods you don’t need to access during the flight.
Restrictions on Liquids, Gels, and Food Items
When it comes to food items, including edibles:
- Liquids and gels over a certain volume must be packed in checked luggage.
- Solid food items can usually be taken in carry-on luggage, subject to some restrictions.
Now, let’s discuss what exactly counts as an ‘edible’ in the context of air travel.
What are Edibles?
Edibles are food products that contain cannabis, which some people use for medical or recreational purposes. They come in many forms such as:
Definition and Types of Edibles
Edibles include:
- Candies and gummies.
- Baked goods like cookies and brownies.
- Beverages that contain cannabis-infused ingredients.
Popular Edibles in the Market
The list of edibles that individuals consider traveling with may include:
- CBD-infused snacks without THC.
- THC-infused chocolates for recreational use in legal states.
With the basics covered, let’s move on to what the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has to say about flying with these items.
TSA Guidelines
TSA Regulations on Food Items
The TSA has clear guidelines about food items, generally allowing passengers to bring solid foods in both checked and carry-on luggage.
Specific Rules for Carrying Edibles
- Edibles must be screened separately along with other food items.
- The TSA’s primary focus is on security, not regulating legal substances.
- Packaging and labeling may be subject to scrutiny.
Keep in mind that while TSA is not specifically looking for cannabis products, discovery of such items may lead to further investigation.
Legal Considerations
Navigating the legal landscape is the most critical aspect when traveling with edibles.
Federal Laws Regarding Cannabis-Infused Edibles
Possession and transportation of cannabis are illegal under federal law, which is the law that governs air space.
Variances in State Laws
State laws regarding cannabis can vary widely:
- Some states have legalized medical and recreational use of cannabis.
- Other states only allow medical use or have complete bans.
International Travel and Legal Implications
For international flights, the legality of cannabis in other countries can vary greatly, and in some, possession is severely punished.
Tips for Traveling with Edibles
Planning and preparation are key when it comes to traveling with edibles. Here are some practical tips to help ensure a stress-free experience:
Planning Ahead and Researching Destination Regulations
It’s important to familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations surrounding cannabis at your destination. This includes any stopover locations where you might be subject to local laws during your transit.
Properly Packing Edibles for Travel
To ensure a smooth security check, here’s how you can pack your edibles:
- Keep edibles in their original packaging if possible. This can help identify the contents as legitimate and commercially-prepared, which might be less likely to raise suspicion.
- Use airtight containers to prevent smells from escaping, which might draw unwanted attention.
Ensuring Discretion and Avoiding Unnecessary Attention
While traveling with legal substances, discretion is always advisable:
- Keep edibles with your other snacks to avoid drawing attention.
- Be respectful and discreet in how you handle your snacks during your journey.
Potential Challenges and Risks
Understanding possible hurdles can prepare you for a smoother trip.
Security Screenings and Potential Delays
Expect that your bags may be searched, and items may be questioned:
- Be prepared to explain what the items are, as straightforwardly and calmly as possible.
- Remember, honesty is the best approach if questioned by authorities.
Possibility of Confusion with Prohibited Substances
Edibles that contain THC could be mistaken for illegal substances in places where cannabis is not legal:
- This can lead to detainment or legal issues, especially in jurisdictions with strict drug laws.
Dealing with Unexpected Situations
If faced with a security or legal concern:
- Remain calm, polite, and cooperative.
- Consider having legal contact information handy, especially when traveling in areas with strict regulations.
Alternatives to Bringing Edibles on a Plane
If you think bringing edibles on a plane might be too risky, here are some alternatives:
Exploring Local Options at Your Destination
In many cases, it might be safer and more convenient to procure your edibles after arriving at your destination:
- Many areas with legal cannabis have dispensaries where you can legally purchase a variety of products suited to your needs.
Understanding the Risks and Legalities of Shipping Edibles
Alternatively, some might consider shipping edibles to their destination ahead of time. However, this also comes with legal risks and should be approached with caution:
- Always confirm legality in both the sending and receiving locations.
Conclusion
Moving with edibles requires the knowledge and several factors such as laws and regulations in several countries and regions besides the general planning and precautions. It may not be an easy process to accomplish, but the informativeness of the information given can assist one in choosing the appropriate solution given the situation at hand.
Whether it is edibles during a flight or any other form, it is always wise to exercise caution when taking anything that is a gray area in terms of legal compliance and safety. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!
