Traveling with cannabis can be tricky and a surprising number assume legality at home means legality everywhere. Even if cannabis is legal in your home state or country, that doesn’t mean you can take it with you when you travel. U.S. federal law continues to list marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance, which means you cannot carry it across state lines—even between two states where it’s legal. This also applies to air travel. The TSA does not actively search for cannabis, but if they find it during a routine screening, they are required to notify local authorities.

Crossing borders with cannabis internationally is extremely risky. Most countries have harsh narcotics regulations, and carrying any cannabis product overseas—even a small amount—can result in serious penalties including fines, detention, or deportation. Some countries have very lenient policies, like the Netherlands, but local rules still apply strictly. Thoroughly investigate the legal status at your destination prior to arrival.

If you’re planning a trip and want to use cannabis for medical or recreational purposes, consider buying it locally. Many legal destinations have state-approved sellers where you can acquire compliant items. This eliminates border-crossing dangers and keeps you within legal boundaries.

It’s also important to understand the difference between cannabis types. Products with tetrahydrocannabinol faces stricter controls than non-psychoactive hemp derivatives, but cannabidiol is banned in several jurisdictions. Some countries classify all cannabis-derived products as illegal, regardless of THC content. Verify the legal status of every cannabinoid before traveling.

Legality in one jurisdiction doesn’t grant permission elsewhere. When Wietwinkels in Noorwegen doubt, leave it at home. The penalties for possession can be devastating compared to the minor benefit. Do your research, honor regional regulations, and prepare thoroughly to ensure a safe, hassle-free journey.