Can You Take CBD on a Plane? TSA Guidelines To Know

Learn about the TSA guidelines for CBD, what to know about the legality of CBD, and best practices for CBD use while traveling with Sunmed.

Can You Take CBD on a Plane? TSA Guidelines To Know
minute read

Key Takeaways:

  • TSA allows federally legal hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC. State and international laws vary.
  • Stick to travel-friendly formats like gummies, oils under 3.4 oz, capsules, or topicals.
  • To avoid issues, consider taking your serving before the flight, shipping only where legal, or purchasing CBD at your destination.

Flying can be stressful, and many travelers rely on wellness supplements like CBD to help manage feelings of tension and maintain balance during long trips. 

However, when it comes to airport security, rules about hemp-derived products can feel confusing. Can you bring CBD on a plane? What does the TSA allow, and what should you avoid packing?

This guide breaks down TSA guidelines, airline rules, state and international laws, and practical tips for traveling with CBD. By understanding the science, legal limits, and smart preparation strategies, you can make travel smoother while staying compliant with the rules.

What to know about CBD and air travel 

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, which is responsible for intoxicating effects, hemp-derived CBD products contain little to no THC and are used by many people for wellness support.*

CBD can work with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help promote a sense of calm, encourage relaxation, and ease muscle tension and stiffness.* These benefits make it appealing for long trips on crowded flights, which can be stressful and uncomfortable. 

Is CBD legal?

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp and hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC on a federal level. This means hemp extract supplements, such as CBD tinctures, gummies, capsules, and creams, can legally be sold and consumed across the United States if they meet these requirements.

When traveling, it’s important to remember:

  • It may be best to stick to THC-free or broad spectrum products , since they contain no detectable THC. This reduces the risk of issues with state regulations.
  • Full spectrum products are federally legal if they contain less than 0.3% THC, but may still be restricted in certain states or by certain airlines.
  • Always carry products that are clearly labeled and tested by third-party labs. Certificates of Analysis (COAs) help verify compliance.

Many travelers choose CBD to support a sense of calm, aid with post-travel recovery, or help manage sleep disturbances during long trips.* However, legality and convenience are what determine whether you can bring it through airport security.

TSA’s Official Policy on CBD

CBD falls under their guidelines for hemp-derived products.

According to TSA, you may bring:

  • Hemp-derived CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC (on a dry weight basis).
  • FDA-approved CBD medications (like Epidiolex) in carry-on or checked bags.

That said, you cannot bring:

  • CBD products derived from cannabis plants (rather than hemp), or any product containing more than 0.3% THC.
  • Hemp flower or “buds” that look like marijuana, even if legal, because they are visually indistinguishable and may be confiscated.

It’s also important to note that TSA officers are not specifically searching for CBD, but if a product is discovered, it may be inspected to confirm compliance. If the product appears to break federal law, TSA must refer it to law enforcement.

Airline-specific rules also apply. Some airlines may have stricter regulations than TSA, so always check with your carrier.

State-to-state variability

Even though hemp-derived CBD is federally legal, state laws differ. Some states have stricter rules on hemp-derived THC, even in trace amounts, while other states may restrict CBD in certain forms, like edibles.

This means you must check the laws for your departure and arrival states. For instance, carrying a full spectrum tincture that is federally compliant may still be an issue if your destination has tighter hemp regulations.

The safest option for domestic travel is often THC-free CBD products that can be verified with lab testing and original packaging.

Can you travel internationally with CBD?

International travel with CBD is riskier. While the U.S. permits hemp-derived CBD, many countries have strict drug laws that include hemp extracts. Some treat CBD as a controlled substance, regardless of THC content. 

Countries like Japan and Singapore prohibit CBD entirely. And, in parts of Europe, only CBD with 0% THC is permitted.

Risks of flying internationally with CBD include:

  • Confiscation at customs.
  • Legal consequences such as fines or detention in countries with zero-tolerance drug policies.

Best practices for international travelers include:

  • Research your destination’s specific laws in advance.
  • Consider shipping CBD rather than flying with it, only if CBD is legal in the country or state you are sending it to.
  • When in doubt, avoid bringing CBD altogether and purchase it locally if available.

Tips for flying with CBD products

If you decide to travel with CBD, preparation matters. These strategies help ensure a smoother airport experience:

Choose the right format

Choosing the right format can make your travels much easier:

  • Gummies or capsules: Discreet, easy to pack, and not subject to TSA’s liquid restrictions.
  • Oils and tinctures: Allowed if less than 3.4 oz (100 ml) and stored in a quart-sized liquid bag.
  • Topicals and creams: Convenient for carry-on or checked luggage if under the liquid limit.

Vapes and hemp buds are not recommended. Vape pens are often restricted on planes, and hemp flower can easily be mistaken for marijuana.

Packaging and documentation

Keep products in original packaging with ingredient and THC content clearly listed. Carry a printed Certificate of Analysis (COA) if possible, showing the product contains less than 0.3% THC. At Sunmed, all of our third-party tested lab reports are easily accessible.

TSA liquid rule

If you pack CBD oil or liquid tinctures in your carry-on, they must follow TSA’s liquid rule: 3.4 ounces or less, stored in a single quart-sized bag.

Practical travel tips

Take your serving size before boarding to avoid carrying larger amounts onto the plane.

Pack CBD in an easily accessible area in case TSA requests to see it. If you’re worried about potential issues, purchase CBD at your destination instead of traveling with it.

What happens if TSA questions your CBD?

If TSA spots CBD during screening, the officer may: inspect the product and packaging, swab or test it if necessary to confirm compliance, allow it if verified as hemp-derived and legal.

If a product does not meet TSA or federal standards, it may be confiscated. In rare cases, law enforcement could be called if THC content is suspected to exceed legal limits.

Staying calm, respectful, and prepared with documentation increases your chances of a smooth experience.

What are alternative options for CBD users while traveling?

If you’d rather not carry CBD through airport security, you have options:

  • Take ahead of time: if you want to enjoy CBD’s relaxing effects on the flight, try taking a long-lasting formula like CBD gummies or a long-lasting CBD tincture before heading to the airport instead of taking them with you.
  • Ship products ahead to your destination — but only if it’s legal in the state or country you’re sending it to.
  • Buy locally once you arrive to avoid potential issues at security or customs.
  • Use non-liquid formats like gummies or capsules, which are easier to pack than oils.

The bottom line

Traveling with CBD is possible, but it requires careful planning. TSA permits hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC, yet state laws, international regulations, and airline-specific rules vary widely.

To keep your trip stress-free, choose THC-free or lab-tested products, travel with clearly labeled packaging, and avoid hemp buds or vape pens. If you’re uncertain, consider taking your serving before the flight, shipping only where legal, or purchasing locally once you arrive. With the right preparation, you can stay on track with your wellness routine wherever your travels take you.*

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

FAQs

Can I bring CBD gummies on a plane?

Yes, you can bring hemp-derived CBD gummies containing less than 0.3% THC on domestic flights in the U.S. They’re often the easiest form to travel with because they’re not subject to liquid restrictions.

Can you travel internationally with CBD oil?

It depends on the destination. Many countries strictly prohibit CBD, even if THC-free. Always research the laws of the country you’re flying to before bringing any hemp-derived product.

Is CBD allowed in carry-on bags?

Yes, CBD oils, tinctures, or topicals can generally be packed in your carry-on if they meet the TSA liquid limit of 3.4 ounces or less. Gummies, capsules, and creams are often more convenient options. However, make sure to check the rules for your specific airline.

Sources:

The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious | Harvard Health

Enhancing Endocannabinoid Control of Stress with Cannabidiol | PMC

Cannabidiol Intervention for Muscular Tension, Pain, and Sleep Bruxism Intensity-A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Trial | PubMed

Farm Bill | USDA

Medical Marijuana | Transportation Security Administration | TSA