What You Need to Know About Traveling With CBD Gummies

With the legalization of hemp and its derivatives last year, many people assume that any cannabis-based product is legal to travel with, and this simply isn’t the case. The confusion surrounding CBD and THC is to blame for much of the misinformation available, so we’ve decided to clear the air a bit to make things much simpler for travelers. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with CBD gummies and other products.

CBD isn’t the Same as THC

First, let’s dispell the myth that THC and CBD are the same thing. They are not the same compound, though both are among the 113 cannabinoids found in the Cannabis plant. Being derived from the same plant doesn’t mean they’re the same substance, and many people mistakenly assume that CBD gets you high or has the same effects as marijuana and THC.

CBD will not produce a “high”; in fact, it’s actually been documented to lessen the effects of THC when taken in combination with recreational marijuana. CBD gummies are included in much of the misinformation that’s spread via social media and other online channels, so it’s important to clear the air.

CBD and Hemp are Legal as of 2018

Now that we’ve cleared the air surrounding CBD and THC, let’s focus on the legality of hemp and hemp-derived products like CBD. Industrial hemp must contain only 0.3% THC or less to be legally grown and cultivated, as outlined in the Farm Bill of 2018. This bill decriminalized hemp, removing it from the lump-grouping that all cannabis derivatives once fell under in the Controlled Substances Act.

Did you know that cannabis was listed with such drugs as LSD and heroin in this act? The Farm Bill removed hemp from the list, but marijuana, and therefore THC, is still considered to be a schedule one drug and is entirely illegal at the federal level.

That being said, CBD and CBD products are perfectly legal, provided they meet the federal standard of 0.3% THC or less. You don’t necessarily have to worry about being arrested or prosecuted, though some exceptions have been seen in recent months.

TSA Rules Regarding CBD

What does the TSA have to say about traveling with CBD? As long as your CBD products meet the federal standards under the Agricultural Improvement Act (The Farm Bill), you can bring them onto any airline. However, this rule is subject to the discretion of the TSA, and if your CBD product(s) are suspected of violating federal law, you may be reported and/or denied your flight privileges.

CBD oils that contain more than 0.3% THC are still illegal on a federal level and are therefore not allowed on any US flights. It’s best to just leave these items at home, even if medical and/or recreational marijuana is legal in your state. You must remember that what’s legal or illegal at the state level isn’t necessarily the same as the federal level. The Fed still views marijuana as a schedule one drug, and you risk legal action if you try to bring THC-infused CBD products onto an airline.

While CBD with less than 0.3% THC may be ok to bring on the plane, sometimes it can be very difficult, if not impossible, to tell the difference without testing the substance. There have been reports of people being arrested for having CBD products that met federal guidelines. Bringing your CBD products onto an airplane is certainly your own decision, but the best thing to do is just to purchase oils or those awesome CBD gummies when you land.

Follow the Rules!

When it comes to traveling, the best thing to do is to follow the rules. After the attacks on 9/11/2001, several policies have been enacted to combat terrorism and make airlines safer than ever. If you’re breaking any rules, the TSA and the Federal Government will take the offense very seriously. The bottom line? Don’t mess around with airlines. Be sure your CBD products meet regulations and that you’re well-versed on the rules surrounding these products.

Conclusion

As long as your CBD meets the 0.3% THC rule, it’s both legal at the federal level and able to be brought onto an airplane. It’s best to source your CBD gummies and products form reputable providers. The more reputable the brand, the better chance there is that they’re staying in compliance. Remember to follow all airline rules and to clearly display your CBD products to the TSA staff for inspection. Happy travels!